How to Choose the Right Delivery Option at Checkout
Discover how to pick the best shipping method when shopping online — balancing speed, cost, and security for each order.
Learn moreParcel App benefits for PostNL delivery
1
Extensive Network
Covers the Netherlands fully and connects well with Belgium, Luxembourg, UK, Germany, and Italy, plus global partners.
2
E-commerce Focus
Supports online sellers with collection points in Asia and smooth cross-border shipping.
3
Accurate Tracking
Track and Trace system offers clear updates from pickup to delivery with global tracking standards.
4
Long Experience
More than 200 years of postal service combined with modern logistics technology.
PostNL is the main postal and parcel delivery service in the Netherlands. It started over 200 years ago and has grown from a simple mail carrier into a modern logistics company. Since separating from TNT Express in 2011, PostNL focuses on letters, parcels, and related services in the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, the UK, Germany, and Italy.
The company runs the largest network for letters, parcels, and e-commerce in the Benelux region. Millions of mail items and packages move daily through its sorting centers and delivery routes. The international mail center in Amsterdam handles all incoming international mail to the Netherlands.
PostNL offers various shipping options for domestic and international deliveries. International registered air mail uses tracking numbers like RU179726789NL, following Universal Postal Union rules. For e-commerce, especially from Asia, PostNL has collection points in countries such as China. Parcels are gathered there before shipping to the Netherlands and then distributed worldwide.
The Track and Trace system lets customers follow their registered mail and packages using unique barcodes. It shows updates from collection to transit and final delivery. This helps senders and receivers keep track of shipments in real time.
Delivery times vary. Domestic shipments usually arrive in 1-2 business days. International deliveries take about 3-5 days within Europe and 15-25 days worldwide. E-commerce parcels from Asia may take 2-4 weeks depending on customs and local delivery.
Shipment Tracking Statuses
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Pending
Awaiting Processing
The parcel has been registered in the system but has not yet been handed over for processing. The seller may have created the tracking number, but the package hasn’t been shipped yet.
•
In Transit
In Transit
The package has left the sender’s warehouse and is on its way to the destination. It may be passing through sorting centers or customs.
•
Delivered
Delivered
The parcel has been successfully delivered to the recipient. Delivery is usually confirmed by a signature or other confirmation.
•
Not Found
Shipment Not Found
The status means there is no information about the package. Possible reasons include an incorrect tracking number, the package not yet registered in the system, or it is no longer being tracked.
FAQ
How do I track my PostNL package?
Use your tracking number on the PostNL website or this tracking tool. Registered mail numbers look like RU123456789NL. E-commerce packages may have numbers like NL14934525209932. Find the number on your receipt or package label.
How long does PostNL delivery take?
Within the Netherlands, delivery usually takes 1-2 business days. Europe shipments take 3-5 days. Worldwide deliveries often need 15-25 days. Parcels from Asia can take 2-4 weeks depending on customs and local delivery.
What do PostNL tracking statuses mean?
Statuses include: 'The item is pre-advised' (label created), 'The item is at the PostNL sorting center' (received), 'The item is on transport to the country of destination' (in transit), 'The item has arrived in the country of destination', 'The item is being processed by customs', and 'The item has been delivered successfully'.
What if my PostNL package is stuck in customs?
Customs may ask for documents or duties. Contact your local customs office with your tracking number. PostNL works with Dutch customs, but clearance depends on goods and paperwork.
How can I track PostNL packages from Chinese online sellers?
Chinese sellers often use PostNL for Europe delivery, shown as 'Netherlands Post' or 'Holland Post Air Mail'. Parcels pass through PostNL centers in China or Hong Kong before reaching the Netherlands. Enter your tracking number here to follow the shipment.
Guides & Manuals
What to Do If Your Package Is Stuck in Transit
Learn what to do when your delivery tracking stops updating and your package seems stuck in transit.
Learn more
How to prevent package theft and loss
Learn effective strategies to protect your packages from theft and loss
Learn more