Articles for The Blind Application

If you believe you are entitled to use the Royal Mail Articles for the Blind Scheme, as outlined below please use this page to apply. Your application will be processed within 24 hours and then, when you are logged in to your account, the postal charge will be adjusted.

Who uses Articles for the Blind?

Articles for the Blind is a scheme for Blind and visually impaired customers who are registered as blind under the provisions of the National Assistance Act 1948. We also include people whose standard of close-up vision, with spectacles is N12 or less and certified by an ophthalmologist, doctor or ophthalmic optician.

How it helps

Articles for the Blind send 1st Class and Air Mail letters, large letters and packets for free. Blind or visually impaired customers and registered charities who want to send specially prepared items to registered blind or recognised visually impaired individuals.

How mail should be addressed

Under the scheme, mail must be addressed to the blind or visually impaired person at that address. Items that are addressed to The Occupier, Dear Customer and not a named recipient should be sent as normal, paid-for mail.

Sizes and weights for items in the UK

Size limits:

• rectangular packages: maximum dimensions : 610mm x 460mm x 460mm
• cylindrical packages: the length must not exceed 900mm and the length added to twice the diameter of the packet must not be more than 1040mm in total.

Weight limits:

• The maximum weight limit of any package is 7kg.

Sizes and weights for items overseas

Size limits:

• rectangular packages: the combined length, depth and width can be up to 900mm, and each single dimension can be up to 600mm. The dimension of each surface needs to be at least 90mm by 140mm.
• cylindrical package: its length needs to be between 100mm and 900mm, and its length plus twice the diameter needs to be between 170mm and 1040mm.

Weight limits:

• Packages can weigh up to 7kg.