Royal Mail Reference Number on Receipt: Example & How to Find

Carolyn Jul 11, 2026

When you send a package via Royal Mail, you'll receive a receipt with a unique reference number. This number is your key to tracking your parcel and ensuring it reaches its destination safely. But what does a Royal Mail reference number look like, and how can you use it? Let's delve into the world of Royal Mail reference numbers.

the receipt for royal mail has been placed in a bag
the receipt for royal mail has been placed in a bag

Royal Mail reference numbers, also known as tracking numbers or consignment numbers, are alphanumeric codes that help you and Royal Mail keep tabs on your parcel. They typically consist of 13 characters, starting with two letters followed by 11 numbers. For example, 'AB12345678901'.

an email message with the text ready for delivery, and it appears to be in red
an email message with the text ready for delivery, and it appears to be in red

Understanding Your Royal Mail Reference Number

Your reference number is not just a random string of characters. It contains valuable information about your parcel's journey. The first two letters represent the type of service you've used, such as 'AB' for Royal Mail 24 or 'AD' for Royal Mail 48. The following 11 numbers are unique to your parcel and help Royal Mail sort and deliver it.

Personal help & support hub
Personal help & support hub

Here's a breakdown of a typical Royal Mail reference number:

  • AB: Service type (e.g., Royal Mail 24)
  • 12345678901: Unique parcel identifier
dollar 💵
dollar 💵

Where to Find Your Reference Number

You can find your Royal Mail reference number on the receipt you receive after sending your parcel. It's usually located near the top of the receipt, under the 'Consignment Number' or 'Tracking Number' heading. If you're using Royal Mail's online services, you'll also find your reference number in your account or order history.

If you've misplaced your receipt or can't find your reference number online, don't panic. You can contact Royal Mail's customer services for assistance. They may ask for details about your parcel, such as the sender's name or the approximate date of posting, to help locate your reference number.

100 - New Receipt
100 - New Receipt

Using Your Reference Number to Track Your Parcel

Once you have your reference number, you can use it to track your parcel's progress. Royal Mail's tracking service is available online, 24/7. Here's how to use it:

  1. Go to the Royal Mail Track page.
  2. Enter your reference number in the 'Track a parcel' field.
  3. Click on 'Track'.
the qr code for royal mail is displayed on an iphone screen, and it appears to have been blocked
the qr code for royal mail is displayed on an iphone screen, and it appears to have been blocked

The tracking tool will provide you with up-to-date information about your parcel's journey, including its current location, estimated delivery date, and any delivery updates or issues.

What to Do If There's a Problem with Your Parcel

the price list for royal mail
the price list for royal mail
a receipt form with the name and number of items on it, including an identification card
a receipt form with the name and number of items on it, including an identification card
Browse Our Image of Certified Mail Receipt Template
Browse Our Image of Certified Mail Receipt Template
an invoice form with the words receipt written on it, and a black and white background
an invoice form with the words receipt written on it, and a black and white background
the order form is being displayed on an iphone screen, and it appears to be in english
the order form is being displayed on an iphone screen, and it appears to be in english
a close up of a piece of paper with a red marker on it that has been written
a close up of a piece of paper with a red marker on it that has been written
Registered Mail Receipt
Registered Mail Receipt
a close up of a piece of paper with a bar code on it
a close up of a piece of paper with a bar code on it
royal mail reference number on receipt example
royal mail reference number on receipt example
the order form is displayed on an iphone
the order form is displayed on an iphone
a receipt for delivery is shown in blue and white, as well as an image of the
a receipt for delivery is shown in blue and white, as well as an image of the
an invoice form is shown with the words receipt from u s post office
an invoice form is shown with the words receipt from u s post office
a receipt sitting on top of a counter
a receipt sitting on top of a counter
the red and white menu is displayed for customers to order from their phone or tablet
the red and white menu is displayed for customers to order from their phone or tablet
Rent
Rent
a close up of a piece of paper with an email address on the back of it
a close up of a piece of paper with an email address on the back of it
the receipt form for payment is shown
the receipt form for payment is shown
a receipt sitting on top of a carpeted floor
a receipt sitting on top of a carpeted floor
an email form with the words no claim on it
an email form with the words no claim on it
the return information screen on an iphone
the return information screen on an iphone

If there's a problem with your parcel, such as a delay or delivery issue, Royal Mail will update the tracking information and provide you with options to resolve the problem. If you can't resolve the issue using the tracking tool, contact Royal Mail's customer services for further assistance.

Having your reference number handy will help Royal Mail's customer services team locate your parcel quickly and provide you with the help you need.

Compensation and Claims

If your parcel is lost or damaged, you may be eligible for compensation. Royal Mail's compensation policy covers parcels up to £30 in value. To make a claim, you'll need to provide your reference number and other details about your parcel. You can find more information about Royal Mail's compensation policy on their website.

Remember, it's always a good idea to insure your parcel, especially if it's valuable. Royal Mail offers optional insurance for parcels up to £500 in value.

In a nutshell, your Royal Mail reference number is your key to tracking your parcel and ensuring it reaches its destination safely. Keep it handy, use it wisely, and you'll be well on your way to a stress-free sending experience. Happy posting!