Postal Services in the Netherlands: A Guide for Expats

Introduction to PostNL: The Dutch Postal Service

PostNL is the national postal service provider in the Netherlands, handling the vast majority of mail and parcel deliveries. While much of our communication is digital, physical mail remains important for official correspondence, international communication, and online shopping deliveries.

For expats, understanding how PostNL operates, where to find its services, and how to manage deliveries is essential for a smooth daily life.

Sending Letters and Postcards: Domestic & International

Sending mail with PostNL is straightforward once you understand the system.

1. Stamps (Postzegels)

• Domestic (Binnenland): For letters within the Netherlands, you buy "Nederland 1" or "Nederland 2" stamps (price dependent on weight). A basic letter stamp is marked "1".
• International (Internationaal): For letters abroad, you buy "Internationaal 1" stamps (again, price dependent on weight and destination). These are typically marked "Internationaal."
• Where to Buy: Stamps can be purchased at PostNL retail points (often within supermarkets, bookstores, or convenience stores), online via the PostNL website, or at some vending machines.

2. Post Boxes (Brievenbussen)

• Orange Boxes: Public post boxes are typically orange and have two slots. The left slot is usually for mail within your own city/region (regionale post) or for international mail, and the right for other destinations within the Netherlands. Check the labels for clarity.
• Collection Times: Collection times are usually indicated on the post box. There is generally one collection per day.

Sending Parcels: Domestic & International

Sending parcels requires more specific handling and usually involves a PostNL location.

1. Packaging and Labeling

• Secure Packaging: Use sturdy boxes, adequate padding, and strong tape.
• Address Label: Clearly write or print the sender's and recipient's addresses. For international parcels, customs declarations will be required.

2. PostNL Points (PostNL Punten)

• Locations: These are designated counters within existing stores (e.g., Primera, Jumbo, Albert Heijn). They offer a full range of PostNL services: sending parcels, buying stamps, collecting/returning packages.
• Drop-off/Collection: You take your pre-labeled parcel to a PostNL point to be weighed and sent.

3. Online Postage & Home Collection

• Buy Online (Online Portokopen): You can buy and print postage labels for parcels directly from the PostNL website. This often offers a slight discount compared to buying at a PostNL point.
• Home Collection (Pakket ophaalservice): For an extra fee, you can arrange for PostNL to collect your parcel from your home.

Receiving Mail and Parcels: What to Expect

Mail is generally delivered once a day to your home address, Monday to Saturday.

1. Missed Deliveries (Niet Thuis)

• "Niet Thuis" Card: If you're not home for a parcel delivery, the PostNL driver will leave a "Niet Thuis" card (also available digitally via the PostNL app). This card indicates:
  • If the parcel was delivered to a neighbor (and which house number).
  • If it will be delivered again the next business day.
  • If it's available for collection at a PostNL point (and which one).
• PostNL App: This app is invaluable. It automatically tracks parcels addressed to you, provides real-time updates, and allows you to manage delivery options (e.g., redirect to a PostNL point, change delivery day).

2. Collecting Missed Parcels

• ID Required: When collecting a parcel from a PostNL point, always bring a valid ID (passport, Dutch ID card, driver's license).
• Digital or Physical Code: You'll usually need the barcode from the "Niet Thuis" card or the PostNL app.

Other Useful PostNL Services for Expats

• Forwarding Service (Doorzendservice): If you move, PostNL offers a service to forward your mail from your old address to your new one for a fee, usually for 6-12 months. This is especially useful for official government mail.
• Registered Mail (Aangetekende Post): For important documents, you can send mail as "aangetekend" for proof of sending and receipt (signature required upon delivery).
• Picking Up Packages (Ophalen Pakketten): You can choose to have packages delivered directly to a PostNL point for pickup at your convenience, instead of home delivery.
• Track & Trace: Most parcel services come with a tracking number (barcode) that allows you to follow your item's journey online.

Essential Tips for Expats with Dutch Postal Services

• Download the PostNL App: This is by far the most useful tool for managing all your deliveries.
• Clear Addressing: Always include your house number and any additions (e.g., A, 1st floor) clearly on your address for mail and parcels.
• Official Mail: Be diligent with official government mail (e.g., from Belastingdienst). It is often sent by regular post.
• Customs Declarations: For parcels sent outside the EU, fill out customs forms accurately and declare contents truthfully to avoid delays.
• Keep IDs Handy: Always have a valid ID ready when collecting parcels.