Sending and receiving mail or packages in the Netherlands can sometimes feel confusing.
Luckily, understanding the ins and outs can have you navigating the Dutch postal service like a pro. 💪
Here’s your ultimate guide to navigating the Dutch postal system, from sending a simple letter to managing international shipments.
How to send a letter or package in the Netherlands
Postal services in the Netherlands are primarily handled by PostNL, the national postal carrier.
While private companies such as DHL, DPD, FedEx, and UPS also offer shipping options, PostNL is the popular choice for standard mail and parcels.
Whether you’re sending a heartfelt letter, shipping a Vinted sale, or receiving an international package, understanding the rules and costs can save you lots of time and hassle.
So, let’s break it down. 🧩
Sending letters and cards with PostNL
PostNL’s distinctive orange mailboxes are conveniently located throughout the Netherlands, making it easy to send letters and small packages. 📩
Each mailbox typically has two slots:
- The right slot is for local mail with nearby postcodes (same neighbourhood or city)
- The left slot is for destinations further away, including international addresses
Make sure your mail is placed in the correct slot for timely delivery. ⏱
Size and weight guidelines
To use the orange post box, your mail must meet the following size and weight requirements:
- Minimum size: 14 x 9cm
- Maximum size: 38 x 26.5 x 3.2 cm
- Maximum weight: 2 kg
If your item exceeds these dimensions, it should be sent as a parcel.
Labelling a letter
To ensure that your letter reaches the destination as fast as possible, it is important to make sure you label your envelope correctly and clearly.
In addition to writing the destination address, make sure also to include sender information for the recipient to reply to your message or for PostNL to return your letter if it was unable to be delivered.
Stamps and pricing
The price of a stamp for a standard letter or postcard is €1.21 within the Netherlands and €1.90 outside the Netherlands. Heavier letters require additional stamps.
Stamps can be bought at any PostNL point. For letters and cards up to 50 grams, you can purchase a stamp code online and handwrite it directly on your envelope.
For items heavier than 50 grams, a shipping label is required, which you can also buy online.
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Domestic mail prices
| Weight | Price (Domestic mail) |
|---|---|
| 0-20 grams | €1.21 |
| 20-50 grams | €2.42 |
| 50-350 grams | €3.92 |
| 350 grams-2 kilograms | €5.15 |
International mail prices
| Weight | Price (International mail) |
|---|---|
| 0-20 grams | €1.90 |
| 20-50 grams | €3.80 |
| 50-100 grams | €5.70 |
| 100-350 grams | €7.60 |
| 350 grams-2 kilograms | €9.50 |
Make sure to check the PostNL website for the most up-to-date rates.
Delivery times
Domestic letters and cards are typically delivered within two days of being sent. However, PostNL only delivers these items between Tuesday and Saturday.
If you’re sending international mail, it may take two to three working days within Europe or up to 25 days abroad, depending on the destination.
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Sending parcels with PostNL
For larger items that exceed the size or weight limits of the standard PostNL post boxes, you’ll need to send them as parcels. 📦
You can either drop off parcels at designated PostNL points near you, often located in shops displaying the orange PostNL sign, such as Bruna or Primera, or package lockers.
Size and weight guidelines
To send an average domestic or international parcel, it must meet the following size and weight requirements:
- Maximum size: 100 x 50 x 50 cm
- Maximum weight: 10 kg
If your item exceeds these dimensions, you can pay the rate for a heavier parcel:
- Maximum size: 176 x 78 x 58 cm
- Maximum weight: 23 kg
Receiving mail and packages
On the flip side, if you’re excitedly awaiting a letter or package, you should keep a few things in mind. 💭
Firstly, these are the standard delivery days for PostNL:
- Letters and cards are delivered from Tuesday to Saturday before 8 PM
- Parcels are delivered from Monday to Saturday before 9:30 PM
During the holiday season, these times may differ. Keep an eye on the PostNL page to keep up to date.
If you’re unavailable during delivery, items may be left with a neighbour or directed to a nearby PostNL point. You will be notified by a note in your mailbox or through the Track & Trace system.
Alternatively, you can also select a specific date to receive your parcel for it to be delivered according to your availability.
Tracking your parcels
PostNL provides a Track & Trace service, which allows you to check your parcel’s status using the barcode from your shipping receipt and your postcode.
Customs and taxes
If you’re expecting a package from outside the European Union (EU), a customs declaration is required to be completed by the sender.
When it arrives in the Netherlands, Dutch customs will examine the parcel. If it contains goods sent from outside the EU, the receiver may be required to pay taxes.
However, if the article is a gift and the value is lower than €45, no taxes will be charged.
TIP: Sending a parcel with your belongings? You can often avoid paying unnecessary taxes by including a note inside and outside of the box to customs explaining that you are sending your own possessions.
Alternative private shipping companies
While PostNL is the primary postal service in the Netherlands, other companies like DHL, DPD, FedEx, and UPS also offer shipping options with similar services, such as express delivery and international shipping.
Have any questions about postal services in the Netherlands? Let us know in the comments below!
Postal services in the Netherlands: Frequently asked questions
What happens if the parcel I sent gets lost?
If your parcel hasn’t been delivered, it has likely been delivered to a neighbour or PostNL pick-up point.
If the delivery status remains pending, wait an additional day or two. Still no sign of your parcel? Contact customer service for assistance.
Can I send a parcel if I’m a tourist?
Yes, tourists in the Netherlands can send parcels. Standard rates apply based on the parcel’s size and weight.
Can I cancel a shipment?
Yes, cancellations can be processed through the PostNL app or by logging in online.
How do I return a parcel?
To return a parcel in the Netherlands, you will need a shipping label. Then, you must package the item securely and return it to the delivery person for free if there’s room in the mailbox or drop it off at a PostNL point.
Returns can also be tracked using the Track & Trace system.
Does PostNL pick up parcels that I want to send?
PostNL picks up packages for business accounts once there’s a scheduled collection time.
What is the cheapest way to send a package to the Netherlands?
There are many options you can use, such as USPS for the United States or DPD, FedEx, UPS, or DHL.
How much is post fee in the Netherlands?
The price for standard letter or postcard will be €1.21 within the Netherlands and €1.90 outside the Netherlands.
Whereas standard packages will start from €4.25.
The exact price may vary, depending on the weight of the item.
When will my package be delivered?
Domestic letters and cards are typically delivered within two days after being sent.
International mail may take two or three working days within Europe, or up to 25 days abroad.
These times may vary depending on the destination.
