Guidance

Yellow label service checklists

Updated 13 May 2025

The checklists below will help you manage the secure dispatch of scripts using the Parcelforce yellow label service. You must also read the detailed instructions in the dispatch of exam scripts guidance.

You will find useful contact details in the Help and support section.

Essentials

• Dispatch exam scripts on the day of the exam whenever possible and always by the following working day at the latest.
• Never put exam script packages in the regular post.
• Dedicate a secure area, desk or cupboard for exams scripts and materials so they cannot get mixed up with any other materials.
• Download and print copies of the dispatch log.

Booking collections

• Arrange exam script collections with Parcelforce Worldwide before every exam series.
• Agree a collection time slot and pickup point.
• Book additional ad hoc collections for early exams or externally marked coursework.
• For ad hoc collections, record each booking reference number on the dispatch log.

Labelling

• Store your pre-addressed yellow labels safely.
• Use only one label per package. Attach the whole label.
• Ensure the label is crease free and the bar codes are not distorted.
• Check for replacement labels sent by email or fax.
• Do not write on pre-addressed yellow labels or alter them in any way.

Packaging

• Ensure you have enough large plastic envelopes, which are provided by the awarding organisation.
• Do not put exam scripts from different exams into one envelope, even if they are going to the same address.
• Do not overfill envelopes.
• Clearly label CDs and memory sticks to ensure they can be redirected if they are lost.
• Place memory sticks inside an envelope in the large plastic envelope to prevent them falling through any holes.
• If possible, pad out any packages containing a single script, CDs or memory sticks with card or bubble wrap to prevent them getting lost.
• Ensure that envelopes are securely sealed.
• Do not pack scripts into paper envelopes, as these are more prone to damage during transit.

Managing collections

• Ensure packages are ready to collect and the dispatch log is completed 15 minutes before your collection time slot whenever possible.
• Store packages safely until the driver arrives.
• Ensure the number of items collected matches the number on the dispatch log.
• Ensure someone is available to give the packages to the Parcelforce driver.
• Ensure that the Parcelforce driver scans each package and prints their name in the space on the dispatch log.
• Contact Parcelforce Worldwide if the driver misses a collection or arrives outside of the agreed collection time slot.

Help and support

You can contact the Parcelforce exams helpdesk on 0344 561 7998 or at examcollection@parcelforce.co.uk:

• for customer service
• to book an ad hoc collection
• to report a missed collection

You should use the Parcelforce website to:

• track a package
• book an ad hoc collection
• find your nearest depot or post office

Please contact your awarding organisation with questions about the pre-addressed yellow labels, including:

• lost or damaged labels
• labels that have not arrived
• wrong labels were used by mistake
• if you need more plastic envelopes

For general enquiries about exams administration or complaints, you can contact the national curriculum assessments helpline on 0300 303 3013 or at assessments@education.gov.uk.