The Department of Posts (DoP) announced the merger of Registered Post with Speed Post services for all domestic mail, effective from September 1, 2025. According to the circular, dated July 2, 2025, the reason behind this major change is an aim to make the mail service more streamlined and “deliver greater customer convenience by consolidating similar services under a unified framework". This means that starting September 1, individuals and businesses who previously used Registered Post will now send their items via Speed Post, which offers quicker delivery and real-time tracking features.
What happens to registered post?
From September 1, the "Registered Post" label will no longer be available for domestic mail. All such mail will be treated and processed as Speed Post. Registered Post, which was traditionally used for secure and accountable delivery with features such as proof of delivery and acknowledgment due, will no longer be a standalone service. Those features, however, will not disappear. India Post has clarified that they will be offered as value-added services within Speed Post.
Proof of delivery: Now optional and chargeable
One of the key distinctions of Registered Post has been its built-in proof of delivery, including a recipient’s signature. With the merger, this will now be an optional, paid add-on under Speed Post. Customers who require proof of delivery or addressee-specific delivery must request these features at the time of booking. The current charge for proof of delivery is ₹10 per article, in addition to the Speed Post tariff.
How will the tracking change
Tracking under Speed Post is generally considered more robust and faster than Registered Post. Speed Post allows real-time online tracking, SMS updates, and faster query resolution through customer support. With Registered Post services being absorbed into this system, customers can expect more reliable tracking and visibility throughout the delivery process.
Speed post pricing: What it will cost you
India Post’s Speed Post tariff is based on distance and weight. Here's a breakdown of current Speed Post pricing for consignments (in Rs):
| Weight | Local | Up to 200 Kms | 201 to 1000 Kms | 1001 to 2000 Kms | Above 2000 Kms |
| Up to 50 grams | 15 | 35 | 35 | 35 | 35 |
| 51-200g | 25 | 35 | 40 | 60 | 70 |
| 201-500g | 30 | 50 | 60 | 80 | 90 |
| Additional 500g or part | 10 | 15 | 30 | 40 | 50 |
How long will Speed Post take to deliver?
Delivery times vary depending on the origin and destination. Below are the average delivery timelines:
| Category | Average time taken |
| Local | 1-2 days |
| Metro to Metro | 1-3 days |
| State Capital to State Capital | 1-4 days |
| Within the Same State | 1-4 days |
| Rest of the country | 4-5 days |
An additional day may be required for deliveries to branch offices.
Definition of 'local' for Speed Post delivery:
- Within the same PIN code area (small towns or kasbas)
- Within the municipality limits (for non-metro cities)
- Within identified metro PIN codes (for metro cities)
What should you do if you used registered post earlier?
If you have regularly used Registered Post, you now need to use Speed Post for similar services. However, if you require features like proof of delivery or addressee-specific handover, you must explicitly ask for these and pay applicable charges.
It is advisable to confirm the specific service level and documentation required with your local post office.
Government departments, courts, and legal offices that have traditionally used Registered Post with Acknowledgement Due (RPAD) will need to update their procedures. The DoP has instructed all Directorates and Divisions to revise their administrative instructions, SOPs, manuals, and forms to reflect the transition to Speed Post.
