PostNL Services Guide: Your Expat Essentials in the Netherlands

Introduction to PostNL: Your Gateway to Dutch Mail

PostNL is the national postal, parcel, and e-commerce logistics company for the Netherlands. While digital communication is prevalent, physical mail and parcel delivery remain crucial for official documents, online purchases, and sending items to friends and family, both domestically and internationally.

For expats, mastering PostNL's services means avoiding frustration with missed deliveries, understanding how to send mail correctly, and keeping track of important correspondence.

Sending Letters and Postcards: Domestic and International

Sending letters is straightforward, but requires correct postage.

1. Postzegels (Stamps)

• Domestic (Binnenland): For mail within the Netherlands, you'll need "Nederland 1" or "Nederland 2" stamps, depending on weight (up to 20g for a standard letter with "1" stamp).
• International (Internationaal): For mail going abroad, purchase "Internationaal 1" or higher, again based on weight and destination.
• Where to Buy: Stamps are available at PostNL retail points (often in supermarkets, Primera stores, bookstores), online via PostNL's website, or sometimes from vending machines.

2. Brievenbussen (Post Boxes)

• Orange Boxes: Public post boxes are distinctively orange. They typically have two slots: one for regional mail/international mail (often the left slot) and one for other national destinations. Always check the labels on the box.
• Collection Times: The scheduled collection times are displayed on the post box. Generally, there is one collection per working day.

Sending Parcels with PostNL: Domestic and International

For packages, you'll typically visit a PostNL point or arrange services online.

1. Packaging and Labels

• Secure Packaging: Ensure your items are well-packed in a sturdy box with adequate cushioning.
• Address Clearly: Write or print recipient's full address and your return address.
• Customs Declarations: For non-EU international parcels, you'll need to complete a customs declaration form (available at PostNL points or online).

2. PostNL Punten (Service Points)

• Locations: These are found in various shops (e.g., Primera, Bruna, Jumbo, Albert Heijn) throughout neighborhoods.
• Services: At PostNL points, you can send parcels, purchase postage, collect missed deliveries, and return online orders.

3. Online Postage and Home Collection

• Online Portokopen: Purchase and print your parcel labels online from the PostNL website. This is often slightly cheaper than buying labels at a PostNL point.
• Pakket ophaalservice (Parcel Collection Service): For an additional fee, you can schedule PostNL to pick up your parcel from your home or office.

Receiving Mail and Parcels: Tips for Expats

Managing incoming deliveries is made easy with digital tools.

1. PostNL App

The official PostNL app is an indispensable tool for expats. It allows you to:

• Track Parcels Automatically: Automatically displays parcels addressed to you.
• Manage Deliveries: Redirect parcels to a PostNL point, choose a new delivery day, or authorize delivery to a neighbor.
• Digital "Niet Thuis" Card: Provides digital information if you miss a delivery.

2. Missed Deliveries (Niet Thuis)

• Card in Mailbox: If you're not home, the driver leaves a physical "Niet Thuis" card (or you get a notification via the app) detailing if the parcel was left with a neighbor or where/when to collect it.
• Collecting Parcels: You'll need valid ID (passport, Dutch ID card, driver's license) and the barcode (from the card or app) to collect parcels from a PostNL point.

Other Useful PostNL Services for Expats

• Doorzendservice (Forwarding Service): If you move, PostNL can forward your mail from your old address to your new one for a fee (typically 6 or 12 months). This is highly recommended for important official mail.
• Postbus (PO Box): For those who need a separate mailing address, a Postbus can be rented.
• Aangetekend Gemak (Digital Registered Mail): For businesses or specific formal communications, a digital registered mail service exists.

Essential Tips for Expats Using PostNL

• Clear Addressing: Always include your full, correct address and any house number additions (e.g., A, 1 hoog) to ensure delivery.
• Manage Expectations: While efficient, be aware that mail is generally not delivered on Sundays or public holidays.
• Official Mail: Pay close attention to mail from government bodies (Belastingdienst, Gemeente, IND); it often comes via standard post.
• Language Support: The PostNL website and app have English options, and staff at PostNL points often speak some English.