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29.7.2026 PFS Whistl: Importance of correct PAN declaration

Updated

 

 

InPost PAN (Pre-Advice Notification) data requirements will take effect from 3rd August 2026.

 

We are pleased to confirm that InPost has advised that no PAN surcharge will be applied where a valid email address and phone number are provided, even if those details are not the recipients.

 

Where recipient contact details are unavailable, alternative contact information may be supplied, provided it:

  • Is valid and correctly formatted
  • Meets the InPost specification requirements
  • Passes InPost validation checks

 

Whilst this removes the surcharge risk, we strongly encourage customers to continue providing recipient contact details wherever possible, noting that at least one valid contact is required – mobile number or email.

 

This ensures recipients receive delivery notifications, including locker diversion and safe place updates, contributing to a better delivery experience.

 

Data Validation Requirements

Email Addresses

  • Must follow standard email formatting (RFC 5322)
  • Must include a valid local part and domain
  • Maximum field length: 40 characters

Mobile Numbers (updated information to supersede previous advice)

 

CUSTOMER_SMS mobile numbers will be validated as follows:

  • The number must start with either '07' or ‘+447’
  • If the number starts ‘07’ it must contain 11 digits
  • if the number starts ‘+447’ it must contain 12 digits (not including spaces or a + sign)
  • The number can only contain spaces in the following places: 07890 123 456 or +447890 123 456
  • The number can only contain hyphens in the following places: 07890-123-456 or +447890-123-456
  • No special characters (apart from ‘+’) or letters are allowed
  • Will be validated by InPost
  • Maximum field length: 25 characters

 

As carriers increasingly rely on PAN data to support parcel routing and customer communications, maintaining accurate and complete shipment data remains important for operational performance and customer satisfaction.

 

Failure to comply with this, and not supplying a valid mobile number and email address, will result in the £1.00 PAN surcharge being applied for shipments created on or after 3rd August.

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