Where to Buy Stamps and Send Letters in Paris: A Practical Guide for Expats

Where to Buy Stamps A Practical Guide for Expats

If you’re an expat in Paris and need to send a letter, you might be wondering: where can I buy stamps, and how does the postal system work in France? Well here is a practical guide to help you better understand the French postal system!

While it may seem daunting at first, sending mail in Paris is simple once you know where to go and what to do.

Here’s your ultimate guide to navigating the French postal system.

Where to Buy Stamps in Paris

At the Post Office (La Poste)

La Poste is the primary provider of postal services in France. You can purchase stamps (“timbres”) directly at any post office. Look for their signature yellow-and-blue logo.

Use their self-service machines for quick access to stamps. These machines have an English language option. You can also ask the staff for assistance at the counter if you’re unsure.

At Tabac Shops

Many tobacco shops (“tabacs”) sell stamps. These shops are easily recognizable by their red diamond-shaped signs. Simply ask for “un timbre, s’il vous plaît” (a stamp, please).

Tabac shops are often more convenient than post offices since they have longer opening hours, including weekends.

Online via La Poste’s Website

If you prefer the digital route, you can order stamps online at laposte.fr. They’ll deliver the stamps directly to your address in France.

You can also print your own stamps using the “Mon Timbre en Ligne” service. Choose your stamp’s design, pay online, and print it at home.

In Supermarkets

Some larger supermarkets like Carrefour or Leclerc offer stamps at their customer service counters. If you’re doing your grocery shopping, it’s worth asking.

Sending Your Letter

Find a Mailbox

Once you have your stamp, look for one of the iconic yellow mailboxes (“boîtes aux lettres”) scattered around Paris. They’re often located near post offices, metro stations, or on busy streets.

Each mailbox has two slots: one for local mail (“Paris et département”) and one for national or international mail (“Autres destinations”). Double-check before dropping your letter.

Check Pickup Times

Mailboxes display a schedule indicating when the mail is collected. If you’re in a hurry, try to post your letter before the last collection time of the day.

Sending International Mail

Ensure you use the correct amount of postage for international destinations. Ask for “un timbre pour l’international” at the post office or tabac. The staff can advise you based on the weight and size of your letter.

Tips for Expats

Understand Weight Limits: Stamps in France are priced by weight categories. For standard letters (20 grams or less), a regular stamp usually suffices. For heavier items, consider using a postal scale or asking at the counter.

Track Your Mail: For important letters, La Poste offers tracking services. Request a tracking number (“un suivi”) to monitor your mail’s journey.

Learn the Vocabulary: Familiarize yourself with key French postal terms like “boîte aux lettres” (mailbox), “envoi” (shipment), and “Colissimo” (for packages).

Conclusion

Sending mail in Paris doesn’t have to be complicated. With numerous options for buying stamps and an efficient postal system, you can confidently send your letters and parcels without hassle.

Whether you opt for the convenience of a tabac shop, the reliability of La Poste, or the ease of online services, Paris has you covered.

Bon courage and happy mailing!

Check out some of our other blogs here:

https://absolutely-french.eu/10-tips-for-a-successful-expatriation-to-france/

https://absolutely-french.eu/notre-dame-cathedral/

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Where to Buy Stamps A Practical Guide for Expats

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stamps Where to Buy A Practical Guide for Expats

practical Where to Buy Stamps Guide for Expats

Where to Buy Stamps A Practical Guide for Expats