Royal Mail Election Campaign Leaflets and Flyers: A UK Printing Guide

Royal Mail election campaign leaflets and flyers are an important consideration for political parties, parliamentary candidates and campaign organisers preparing printed election communications.

However, printing leaflets for postal delivery involves more than choosing a paper size and placing an order. Organisers must consider the applicable Royal Mail service, eligibility, printing specifications, artwork preparation and electoral requirements.

Some election candidates may qualify for specific election communication arrangements, subject to the relevant rules and conditions. Other political materials may require ordinary paid postal services.

At Affordable Leaflets, we provide professional leaflet and flyer printing options for customers across the UK.

In this guide, we'll explore the practical printing considerations for Royal Mail election campaign leaflets, including paper sizes, weight, artwork preparation, production planning and the difference between printing and postal distribution.

What Are Royal Mail Election Communications?

Royal Mail provides postal services for a wide range of printed materials, including certain election communications.

Specific election communication arrangements may be available to eligible candidates at qualifying elections.

These arrangements are subject to rules governing eligibility, the materials that can be sent, postal preparation and other conditions.

It is important to distinguish between an election communication service and ordinary paid mail.

Not every political leaflet qualifies for a special election postal arrangement.

Important Points to Check

• Which election is taking place.
• Whether the candidate is eligible.
• Which Royal Mail service applies.
• The permitted format and weight.
• Artwork and content requirements.
• Preparation and handover arrangements.
• Applicable deadlines.

Always obtain the current requirements directly from Royal Mail and the relevant electoral authorities before ordering printing.

1. Understand the Difference Between Printing and Distribution

Printing and postal distribution are separate services.

A printing company produces the physical leaflets or flyers, while the postal operator handles the relevant mail service.

Unless a supplier expressly confirms otherwise, ordering printed leaflets does not automatically include Royal Mail distribution.

Printing Usually Involves

• Choosing the finished dimensions.
• Selecting paper specifications.
• Confirming printing quantities.
• Preparing print-ready artwork.
• Producing the printed materials.
• Arranging delivery of the finished order.

Postal Distribution May Involve

• Confirming eligibility for a postal service.
• Checking permitted formats.
• Meeting weight restrictions.
• Preparing items according to postal instructions.
• Completing any required documentation.
• Following the applicable handover process.

These requirements should be checked before the final print specification is selected.

2. Check Eligibility Before Ordering

Eligibility is one of the most important considerations when preparing election communications for Royal Mail.

Some arrangements apply only to particular elections and eligible candidates.

The applicable rules may also specify how many communications can be sent and what conditions must be met.

Organisers should not assume that an election leaflet qualifies simply because it contains political information.

Eligibility Questions

• Does the election qualify for the intended service?
• Is the candidate eligible?
• Are there limits on the number of communications?
• Are there restrictions on the materials?
• What approval or documentation is required?
• What deadlines apply?

Confirm these details directly with Royal Mail and the appropriate electoral authorities.

3. Choosing a Suitable Leaflet Size

Leaflet dimensions influence the printing cost, available artwork space and suitability for postal distribution.

Common printing formats include A6, A5 and A4.

However, standard printing dimensions do not automatically guarantee compatibility with a particular Royal Mail service.

A6 Election Flyers

A6 flyers measure 105mm x 148mm.

This compact format may be suitable for short announcements and materials containing limited information.

Before ordering, confirm that the dimensions are acceptable for the intended postal service.

A5 Election Leaflets

A5 leaflets measure 148mm x 210mm.

They provide additional space for photographs, headings, contact information and supporting text.

A5 can be a practical printing format, but organisers must still check the relevant postal specifications.

Explore our 1,000 A5 leaflets product page when comparing printing options.

A4 Election Leaflets

A4 leaflets measure 210mm x 297mm.

They provide more space for detailed information.

However, larger dimensions may affect the permitted postal format, preparation requirements and overall weight.

Check the relevant service conditions before choosing A4.

4. Understanding Postal Size Restrictions

Royal Mail services have their own specifications for acceptable mail items.

These can include restrictions on dimensions, thickness, weight and preparation.

The requirements for an election communication may differ from those for an ordinary postal product.

Therefore, it is important to obtain the correct specification for the intended service.

Check the Following

• Minimum permitted dimensions.
• Maximum permitted dimensions.
• Maximum thickness.
• Maximum weight.
• Whether folding is permitted.
• Whether envelopes or other packaging are required.
• Any special preparation instructions.

Do not rely on general leaflet dimensions alone when determining postal suitability.

5. Choosing the Correct Paper Weight

Paper weight is an important consideration for postal printing.

It is commonly measured in grams per square metre, abbreviated to gsm.

Heavier paper generally increases the weight of an individual printed item.

For postal distribution, the completed item's weight may affect whether it meets the service requirements.

Paper Selection Considerations

• Available paper weights.
• Finished leaflet dimensions.
• Single-sided or double-sided printing.
• Any folding requirements.
• Packaging or envelope weight.
• Applicable postal weight limits.

Choose the paper specification only after confirming the relevant postal conditions.

6. Estimating the Weight of Printed Leaflets

Paper weight can be estimated using the sheet area and the selected gsm.

For example, a standard A5 sheet has an area of approximately 0.03108 square metres.

On 130gsm paper, the approximate weight of the sheet would be:

0.03108 × 130 = 4.04 grams

This is an illustrative paper-weight calculation, not a confirmed weight for a finished postal item.

Actual weight can vary according to paper specifications, finishing, packaging and other factors.

Where a postal service has a strict weight limit, the finished item should be checked against the applicable requirements.

7. Coated and Uncoated Paper Options

Election leaflets can be printed on different paper finishes.

The selected finish can influence appearance, handling and the feel of the completed product.

Coated Paper

Coated paper provides a smooth surface and can be suitable for photographs and coloured graphics.

Depending on the printing product, gloss and silk finishes may be available.

Uncoated Paper

Uncoated paper offers a different texture and appearance.

It may be suitable for information-based materials or applications where a writable surface is useful.

Always confirm that the chosen stock is appropriate for the intended postal service.

8. Single-Sided or Double-Sided Printing?

Election communications may be printed on one or both sides of the sheet, subject to the requirements of the selected service.

Single-Sided Printing

Single-sided printing may be suitable for materials containing limited information.

However, all essential content must fit comfortably on the available surface.

Double-Sided Printing

Double-sided printing provides additional design space without increasing the sheet dimensions.

It may be suitable when the artwork contains photographs, contact details and several sections of information.

Confirm that the proposed format and content comply with the relevant postal and electoral requirements.

9. Preparing Artwork for Postal Leaflets

Professional postal leaflet printing requires artwork prepared to the correct specifications.

Before designing the final document, confirm both the printing requirements and any applicable postal conditions.

Print-Ready Artwork Checklist

• Correct finished dimensions.
• Required bleed included.
• Important content inside the safe area.
• Suitable image resolution.
• Recommended colour settings.
• Correct font handling.
• Accurate candidate and organisation information.
• Required legal imprint details.
• Accepted file format.

Customers can find information about submitting artwork through our artwork upload page.

10. Understanding Bleed and Safe Areas

Bleed is the additional artwork extending beyond the finished trim size.

It helps prevent unwanted white edges when printed sheets are cut.

A safe area is the region inside the trim where important text and graphics should be positioned.

Names, dates, logos and other essential information should not be placed too close to the cutting edge.

Follow the measurements specified for the selected printing product.

11. Preparing Candidate Photographs and Logos

Election leaflets may include candidate photographs, party logos and other relevant graphics.

These elements should be suitable for professional printing.

Low-resolution photographs can appear pixelated when enlarged.

Image Preparation Tips

• Use suitable image resolution.
• Avoid excessive enlargement.
• Check image cropping.
• Use appropriate colour settings.
• Supply vector logos where available.
• Confirm permission to use photographs and graphics.

All images should be reviewed before artwork approval.

12. Understanding Election Imprint Requirements

Printed election materials may be required to include an imprint identifying the parties responsible for publication.

The applicable requirements depend on the type of election, the material and the relevant jurisdiction.

Campaign organisers should consult current guidance from the Electoral Commission and the appropriate electoral authorities.

Where an imprint is required, the correct information should be included before the artwork is approved for printing.

Any additional postal service requirements should also be checked.

13. Royal Mail Election Communications and Ordinary Mail

It is important to distinguish between special election communication arrangements and ordinary paid postal services.

Different services can have different eligibility rules, prices and preparation requirements.

Some candidates may qualify for election-specific arrangements, while other printed political materials may need to use ordinary postal services.

Campaign organisers should confirm which service is appropriate before making printing decisions.

Questions to Ask

• Which postal service is being used?
• Does the material qualify?
• What dimensions are permitted?
• What weight restrictions apply?
• Are envelopes required?
• What preparation instructions must be followed?
• Are there specific submission deadlines?

Obtain current answers directly from Royal Mail.

14. Planning Printing Quantities

Choosing a suitable printing quantity is an important part of postal leaflet preparation.

The required number of copies depends on the intended service and the number of items that need to be produced.

Some election-specific services may impose their own conditions relating to the number of communications.

Quantity Planning Considerations

• Confirmed postal service requirements.
• Required number of printed items.
• Different artwork versions.
• Available printing budget.
• Packaging and handling requirements.
• Production and delivery deadlines.

Confirm the necessary quantity before placing the printing order.

15. Managing Multiple Artwork Versions

Some election printing projects involve different candidates, constituencies or events.

This can require several artwork versions.

Careful file management can help prevent incorrect materials from being printed.

Version Management Tips

• Use clear file names.
• Identify the candidate or constituency.
• Keep drafts separate from approved artwork.
• Check names and contact details individually.
• Confirm the required quantity for each version.
• Review the final files before submission.

Always check that the correct artwork is supplied for each order.

16. Planning Printing and Postal Deadlines

Election-related postal communications can involve important deadlines.

Therefore, organisers should allow sufficient time for artwork preparation, proofreading, printing and any required postal preparation.

Royal Mail may also specify deadlines for particular election services.

Suggested Production Stages

• Confirm eligibility and postal requirements.
• Select suitable printing specifications.
• Prepare the artwork.
• Check legal information.
• Review the final proof.
• Place the printing order.
• Arrange delivery and postal preparation.
• Follow the relevant Royal Mail instructions.

Always confirm current deadlines and turnaround times before relying on a particular schedule.

17. Understanding Printing and Postal Costs

The total cost of an election communication project may involve several separate expenses.

Printing prices depend on the selected product and specifications.

Postal costs depend on the applicable service and eligibility arrangements.

Possible Budget Categories

• Artwork preparation.
• Leaflet printing.
• Paper specifications.
• Printing quantities.
• Delivery of printed materials.
• Packaging or preparation.
• Applicable postal charges.

Where a candidate qualifies for a particular election communication arrangement, the relevant conditions should be confirmed directly with Royal Mail.

Do not assume that printing costs are included in a postal service.

18. Proofreading Election Postal Leaflets

Proofreading is an important stage before printing.

Errors in candidate names, dates, addresses or imprint information can be difficult to correct once large quantities have been produced.

Final Proofreading Checklist

• Candidate and organisation names are correct.
• Party names and logos are accurate.
• Contact details have been checked.
• Dates and locations are correct.
• Photographs are suitable.
• Imprint information is correct.
• Artwork matches the selected printing specifications.
• Postal requirements have been confirmed.

Where possible, arrange for another person to review the final artwork before approval.

19. Common Royal Mail Election Printing Mistakes

Several avoidable mistakes can affect election-related postal printing projects.

Common Mistakes Include:

• Assuming a candidate qualifies for a service without checking.
• Choosing unsuitable leaflet dimensions.
• Overlooking postal weight restrictions.
• Submitting artwork without the required bleed.
• Using low-resolution photographs.
• Ordering incorrect quantities.
• Failing to check legal imprint requirements.
• Mixing up different artwork versions.
• Leaving printing arrangements too late.

Careful preparation can help reduce unnecessary corrections and delays.

20. Final Royal Mail Election Printing Checklist

Before placing an order, review the printing and postal requirements one final time.

• Confirm the intended Royal Mail service.
• Check eligibility where applicable.
• Verify permitted dimensions and weight.
• Select suitable paper specifications.
• Confirm the printing quantity.
• Prepare print-ready artwork.
• Check all candidate and organisation information.
• Include the correct legal imprint.
• Confirm production and delivery arrangements.
• Check postal preparation instructions and deadlines.

Completing these checks can help create a more organised printing project.

Professional Election Leaflet Printing in the UK

Royal Mail election communications can involve specific requirements relating to eligibility, dimensions, weight and preparation.

Therefore, organisers should confirm the applicable postal conditions before selecting a printing product.

At Affordable Leaflets, we provide professional leaflet and flyer printing options for customers throughout the UK.

Whether you're comparing compact flyers or larger information leaflets, choosing suitable printing specifications is an important part of preparing printed election materials.

Explore Election Leaflet Printing Options

Before ordering, confirm the required leaflet size, paper specification, printing quantity and artwork requirements.

Make sure the materials comply with applicable electoral rules and the conditions of the intended postal service.

Allow sufficient time for printing, delivery and any additional postal preparation.

Explore available printing products at Affordable Leaflets.

For more information about printing specifications, artwork preparation or ordering, contact our team.