The manifest used by Royal Mail needs significant improvements to enhance accountability and user-friendliness. It should provide more than just a summary; it needs to serve as a definitive proof of posting with a detailed list of the contents sent. This information should be accessible on the platform, allowing users to generate a proof of posting for any customer as needed.

Currently, the manifest utilizes a range of codes within certain parameters for tracked items, which is inadequate. It should include a comprehensive breakdown of all items, tracked and untracked. A critical flaw in the current system is that if Royal Mail does not remove a tracked item from the bag and scan it, the system indicates that the item is still awaiting dispatch, even though it has been sent. This discrepancy prevents users from making claims for these items.

As service providers who print labels and prepare goods for shipment, there is an expectation for Royal Mail to support its customers better. This can be achieved by ensuring that the manifest accurately reflects that the goods have been posted, thereby allowing customers to substantiate their claims reliably.