🇳🇱 POSTNL Tracking

About POSTNL Package Tracking Service

POSTNL is the leading postal and parcel service provider in the Netherlands, delivering millions of packages and letters daily across the country and internationally. With over 170 years of history, POSTNL operates more than 1,650 PostNL locations and serves over 9 million customers in the Netherlands, making it the most trusted shipping service for Dutch consumers and businesses.

Our free POSTNL tracking service allows you to monitor your shipments in real-time, from the moment they're accepted at the post office until they reach their final destination. Whether you're tracking a Priority package, a Standard parcel, or an international shipment, our tracking tool provides detailed status updates and estimated delivery dates for all POSTNL services.

Track your POSTNL packages easily by entering your tracking number in the search box above. POSTNL tracking numbers are typically 13-16 characters and may begin with prefixes like CD, RB, CP, CV, or other combinations depending on the service type. Once your package ships, you'll receive real-time updates showing each scan location, transit progress, and delivery confirmation.

POSTNL Shipping Services

Special Services & Features

POSTNL offers several value-added services to enhance your shipping experience. My POSTNL allows you to manage deliveries online, change delivery times, and choose alternative delivery locations. Signature Required ensures packages are handed directly to the recipient with identification. Age Verification is available for age-restricted items like alcohol or tobacco.

Cash on Delivery (COD) enables businesses to collect payment upon delivery. Return to Sender service automatically returns undeliverable items. Coverage can be purchased up to €5,000 for valuable items. All tracked services include automatic email and SMS notifications to keep customers informed.

POSTNL Service Comparison

Choose the right POSTNL service for your shipping needs. Below is a comprehensive comparison of delivery speeds, features, and guarantees for each service level.

Understanding POSTNL Delivery Guarantees

Priority Package: Guarantees next-business-day delivery to most addresses in the Netherlands. If Priority doesn't meet its delivery commitment, POSTNL offers compensation options (conditions apply). Delivery to major cities and business districts is guaranteed by end of day.

Business Parcel: Guarantees delivery within 1-2 business days depending on origin and destination. Business customers with account relationships receive priority handling and guaranteed delivery times with service level agreements.

Non-Guaranteed Services: Standard Package, Light Package, and International Package do not include delivery guarantees but provide reliable service with typical delivery times. These services are perfect for non-urgent shipments where cost savings are more important than guaranteed delivery dates.

Complete Guide to POSTNL Tracking

Understanding POSTNL Tracking Numbers

POSTNL tracking numbers are unique identifiers assigned to each trackable shipment. Domestic tracking numbers are typically 13-16 characters long and follow specific formats depending on the service used. Understanding your tracking number format helps you identify the service type and expected delivery speed.

Domestic Tracking Number Formats: Most domestic tracked services use formats starting with 3 letters followed by 9-10 digits. Common prefixes include RB, RC, RD (Registered Mail), CD, CE, CP (International), and CV, CY (Standard Package). Examples include: 3SDEVC094825393, RB987654321NL, or CD123456789NL.

International Tracking Numbers: International shipments typically use Universal Postal Union (UPU) S10 format with prefixes like CE, CP, CV, CY followed by 9 digits and ending with NL. Examples include: CE123456789NL (International Standard), CP987654321NL (International Priority), or CV555666777NL (International Tracked).

Legacy and Alternative Formats: Some older shipments or specific business accounts may use 12-13 digit numeric-only tracking numbers without letter prefixes. My POSTNL items may have specialized formats. If your tracking number doesn't match these patterns, verify with the sender that you have the complete tracking number.

How POSTNL Tracking Works

POSTNL's tracking system uses barcode scanning technology at every stage of the shipping journey. When a package is created and accepted, the tracking number's barcode is scanned, creating the first "electronic information submitted" or "item accepted" scan in the system. This initial scan confirms POSTNL has custody of the package.

As the package moves through POSTNL's network, it's scanned at each processing facility, during sorting, when loaded onto transport vehicles, upon arrival at destination facilities, and finally during delivery. Each scan generates a tracking update with a timestamp and location, allowing customers to monitor the package's progress in real-time.

POSTNL operates major processing centers in strategic locations across the Netherlands including Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and other major cities. Packages are typically scanned when entering and exiting these facilities. For remote or rural deliveries, there may be longer gaps between scans as packages travel greater distances between facilities.

The tracking system integrates with POSTNL's delivery network to provide estimated delivery dates based on service type, origin, destination, and current package location. While Priority and Business services offer guaranteed delivery timeframes, other services provide estimated delivery windows that may vary based on weather, volume, and other factors.

POSTNL Delivery Guarantees and Timelines

Priority Package Guarantee: Priority Package is POSTNL's premium domestic service with a delivery guarantee. Packages sent Priority Package are guaranteed for next-business-day delivery to most addresses in the Netherlands. If Priority Package fails to meet this commitment, customers can request compensation by filing a claim within 30 days.

International Priority Guarantee: International Priority guarantees delivery within 1-7 business days depending on destination. Shipments to major European cities typically arrive in 1-2 business days. Deliveries to other European countries may take 2-3 business days. Worldwide deliveries typically take 3-7 business days. Like Priority Package, International Priority offers a delivery guarantee with compensation options if delivery commitments aren't met.

Standard Services Timeline: Standard Package delivers in 1-2 business days, Light Package in 1-3 business days, and Registered Mail in 1-3 business days. These services don't include delivery guarantees, and timelines are estimates that may vary based on distance, weather, and seasonal volume. During peak periods like holidays, delivery may take longer than usual.

International Delivery Timelines: International Package typically delivers in 2-14 business days depending on destination. European destinations typically receive packages in 2-5 business days, while intercontinental shipments may take 5-14 business days. International timelines are subject to customs clearance delays and foreign postal system processing times, which POSTNL cannot control or guarantee.

Factors Affecting Delivery Times: Weather events, particularly storms and flooding, can delay deliveries. King's Day (April 27) and other national holidays mean no delivery service. Remote and rural addresses naturally take longer due to distance from processing centers. Address accuracy is critical - incorrect or incomplete addresses cause significant delays. During POSTNL labor disputes or service disruptions, all timelines and guarantees may be suspended.

International Shipping with POSTNL

POSTNL offers several international shipping options for sending packages worldwide. The most popular services are International Priority (tracked, 1-7 business days), International Package (tracked, 2-14 business days), International Tracked Packet (economical for lightweight items), and International Registered Mail (secure delivery for valuable items).

Customs Documentation: All international shipments require proper customs documentation. The CN22 (Green Label) form is used for items under €150 value, while CN23 customs forms are required for higher-value shipments. Accurate declaration of contents, quantity, and value is legally required. Falsifying customs documents can result in seizure, fines, or criminal charges.

Customs Clearance Process: When packages arrive in the destination country, they must clear customs before final delivery. The customs authority inspects the package, verifies the documentation, and assesses duties and taxes if applicable. This process can take anywhere from 1-10 business days depending on the country and package contents. Tracking will show "Item presented to Customs" or similar status during this time.

Duties and Taxes: Recipients are responsible for paying any applicable duties, taxes, or customs fees in their country. These charges are not included in POSTNL shipping costs and vary by country, item type, and value. Some countries have de minimis thresholds (like USA's $800 USD) below which most items aren't charged duties. Research destination country requirements before shipping.

Prohibited and Restricted Items: Each country has different regulations on what can be imported. Commonly restricted items include food, plants, seeds, medications, cosmetics, electronics with lithium batteries, and anything containing alcohol. Always check Dutch customs export restrictions and destination country import restrictions before shipping internationally.

International Tracking Limitations: While POSTNL provides end-to-end tracking for international services, tracking updates may be less frequent once packages leave the Netherlands. Foreign postal systems have varying capabilities - some provide detailed tracking while others only confirm arrival and delivery. Track your international packages using both POSTNL's system and the destination country's postal service website for complete visibility.

Common POSTNL Tracking Statuses Explained

"Electronic information submitted by shipper": This is the first status you'll see when a shipping label is created. It means the sender has created the label and POSTNL has received the electronic shipping information, but the physical package hasn't been scanned yet. This is normal for the first 24-48 hours. If this status persists for 3+ days, the package may not have been dropped off yet.

"Item accepted at the post office": POSTNL has physically received and scanned your package at a post office or during pickup. This is the first confirmed scan showing POSTNL has custody. The package will now enter the sorting and transportation network. This scan typically occurs within 24 hours of drop-off.

"Item processed at sorting facility": Your package has arrived at a POSTNL processing center and been sorted for routing to the destination. Packages typically pass through 1-2 sorting facilities depending on distance. Major processing centers include Amsterdam Gateway, Rotterdam Gateway, and other regional hubs. International packages route through specific international gateways.

"Item in transit": The package is moving between facilities or to the destination delivery unit. You may see multiple "in transit" scans as the package moves through the network. This is normal and indicates the package is progressing toward delivery. Each scan includes the location and timestamp.

"Item out for delivery": Your package is loaded on a POSTNL delivery vehicle and scheduled for delivery today during normal delivery hours (typically 8 AM - 6 PM, varying by location). Most items showing this status are delivered the same day. If weather or other issues prevent delivery, it will be attempted again the next business day.

"Item successfully delivered": Your package was delivered. The detailed tracking shows the exact delivery time, date, and location description such as "Left in mailbox," "Left at front door," "Community mailbox," "Parcel locker," or "Handed to resident." For signature-required items, the recipient's name or "Signature obtained" is shown.

"Delivery attempt - Notice card left": The delivery carrier attempted delivery but couldn't complete it. Common reasons include no safe location to leave the package, signature required but no one home, package too large for mailbox, or restricted access to building. A notice card was left with instructions for pickup at the designated post office. Items are held for 14 days.

"Item available for pickup": Your package is ready to collect at the post office shown in the tracking details. Bring valid government-issued photo ID and the notice card if you received one. For My POSTNL items, this is the normal delivery method. Packages are held for 14 calendar days before being returned to sender.

"Item delayed": An exception has occurred causing a delay. This could be due to weather, customs issues, incorrect address, damaged packaging, or operational issues. Check tracking details for specific delay reasons. Contact POSTNL customer service at +31 88 225 5555 for more information about significant delays.

"Item presented to Customs" (International): For international inbound shipments, this means the package has arrived in the destination country and is undergoing customs clearance. This process typically takes 1-5 business days but can take longer for items requiring inspection or additional documentation. You cannot expedite customs clearance.

"Return to sender": The package is being returned to the original sender. Reasons include failed delivery attempts with no pickup within 14 days, incorrect or incomplete address with no way to correct it, refused by recipient, or customs clearance failure. The tracking will show return journey details.

Delivery Options and My POSTNL

My POSTNL Overview: My POSTNL is POSTNL's free online service that allows you to manage your deliveries digitally. With My POSTNL, you can receive digital shipping notifications, choose alternative delivery locations, change delivery times, and track packages in one convenient place. You can also request returns and view delivery history.

How to Sign Up for My POSTNL: Visit postnl.nl/en/my-postnl and create a free account. You'll need your postcode, house number, and delivery address to register. Once registered, you can link your account to receive notifications about all incoming packages to your address. There's no fee for the service, and you can manage preferences anytime.

Delivery Location Options: With My POSTNL, you can choose from several delivery preferences: home delivery, delivery to a POSTNL point (over 6,000 locations across the Netherlands), delivery to a neighbor, or pickup at your local post office. You can set these preferences in advance or change them when a package is on its way.

POSTNL Points: POSTNL Points are convenient pickup locations including post offices, supermarkets, gas stations, and other retail partners. When you choose delivery to a POSTNL point, you receive email or SMS notification when your package arrives. Bring valid ID and the tracking number to collect your package during the location's business hours.

Evening and Sunday Delivery: POSTNL offers special delivery options for customers who can't receive packages during regular business hours. Evening delivery (6 PM - 9 PM) is available for domestic shipments, and Sunday delivery is available in selected areas. These services may have additional fees and require advance booking through the My POSTNL portal.

Signature Options: Signature delivery ensures packages are handed directly to someone at the address. "Signature Required" means anyone can sign. "Do Not Safe Drop" prevents packages from being left unattended. "Proof of Age Required 18" or "19" requires age verification and ID check upon delivery - commonly used for alcohol, tobacco, or adult products.

Authorized Receivers: You can authorize someone else to pick up your package at the post office by providing them with a signed authorization letter and your notice card. The authorized person must bring their own valid photo ID plus your ID or the authorization letter. POSTNL points may have specific requirements, so call ahead.

Rerouting and Delivery Preferences: Some POSTNL services allow package rerouting while in transit. You may be able to redirect a package to a POSTNL point, change the delivery address, or upgrade delivery speed for an additional fee. Check the My POSTNL website or mobile app for available options for your specific package.

What to Do If POSTNL Tracking Isn't Updating

First 48 Hours - Normal Delays: If you just received a tracking number and it shows "Electronic information submitted" or no information at all, wait 24-48 hours. Tracking numbers activate when packages are physically scanned, not when labels are printed. The sender may have printed the label but not dropped off the package yet. This is the most common reason for "no tracking updates."

Stuck in Transit - Check Timeline: Review the expected delivery timeline for your service level. Standard Package can take up to 2 business days, and rural deliveries naturally have fewer scans. If tracking hasn't updated in 3-4 days for Priority/International Priority or 5-7 days for other services, there may be an issue. Long-distance shipments or packages traveling to remote areas may legitimately have longer gaps between scans.

Verify Tracking Number Accuracy: Confirm you have the complete, correct tracking number with no missing digits or typos. POSTNL tracking numbers are case-sensitive in some systems. Try tracking on both postnl.nl and third-party tracking sites. If the tracking number format doesn't match POSTNL's standard formats, verify with the sender.

Weekend and Holiday Considerations: POSTNL doesn't operate regular delivery services on Sundays and national holidays. If your last scan was on Friday, the next update will likely be Monday (or Tuesday after long weekends). Processing facilities have reduced operations on weekends, which can cause tracking update gaps.

Weather and Service Disruptions: Severe weather, particularly storms, floods, or winter weather, can delay shipments and scanning operations. POSTNL posts service alerts on their website when weather significantly impacts operations. During labor disputes or strikes, tracking may not update regularly and delivery timelines are unpredictable.

Contact POSTNL Customer Service: If tracking hasn't updated beyond expected timeframes or shows unusual patterns, call POSTNL customer service at +31 88 225 5555 (available 8 AM - 8 PM local time Monday-Friday). Have your tracking number ready. They can file a service ticket to investigate the package's location and status.

File a Service Ticket Online: Visit postnl.nl and navigate to "Track & Trace" > "Contact Us" to submit an online inquiry. Provide the tracking number, shipping and destination addresses, and description of the issue. POSTNL typically responds within 2-5 business days with an investigation update. This creates an official record of the delay.

Contact the Sender: If you're the recipient and tracking shows no movement, contact the sender to confirm they actually shipped the package and provided the correct tracking number. The sender has more options and authority to file claims or investigate with POSTNL since they purchased the shipping service.

When to File a Lost Package Claim: Domestic packages can be considered lost if tracking shows no updates for 14 days from the mail date. International packages require 30 days. Don't file lost package claims prematurely - POSTNL won't process them until these waiting periods expire. Most "stuck" packages eventually show up.

Filing Claims for Lost or Damaged Items

Eligibility and Coverage: Most POSTNL tracked services include automatic coverage up to €500 for loss or damage. This coverage is included in the shipping price at no extra cost. Additional declared value coverage can be purchased up to €5,000 for valuable items. Lettermail without tracking, items improperly packaged, prohibited items, and perishables are not eligible for claims.

When to File a Claim: For lost items, you must wait 14 days from the mail date for domestic shipments or 30 days for international shipments before filing. For damaged items, file within 14 days of delivery for domestic or 30 days for international. Claims must be filed within 90 days of the mail date for all issues. Don't wait too long - time limits are strictly enforced.

Who Can File: Only the sender (person who paid for shipping) can file claims with POSTNL. Recipients cannot file claims directly. If you're the recipient of a lost or damaged package, contact the sender and request they file a claim on your behalf. The sender is the POSTNL customer and has the contractual relationship.

Required Documentation: To file a successful claim, you'll need: (1) the complete tracking number, (2) original receipt or proof of purchase showing item value, (3) detailed description of contents including brand, model, serial numbers, (4) for damaged items: photos of damage to packaging and contents, and (5) original packaging if damaged - don't throw it away.

How to File Online: Visit postnl.nl, log in or create an account, navigate to "Track & Trace" > "Claims" > "Submit a Claim." Complete the online claim form with all required information and upload supporting documentation (receipts, photos, invoices). The online system guides you through each required field and document type.

Claim Valuation: POSTNL reimburses the lesser of: (1) the item's actual purchase price, (2) current market value, or (3) the coverage limit (€500 standard or higher if additional coverage was purchased). Sentimental value, potential earnings, and consequential damages are not covered. For damaged items, repair costs may be covered instead of full replacement if lower.

Processing Timeline: POSTNL typically investigates and resolves claims within 30-45 business days. Complex cases or international claims may take longer. You'll receive email updates as the claim progresses through investigation, review, approval/denial stages. If additional information is needed, POSTNL will contact you - respond promptly to avoid claim rejection.

Claim Denial and Appeals: Common reasons for claim denial include: insufficient wait period, inadequate packaging, incomplete documentation, prohibited items, missing proofs of value, or filing after the deadline. If your claim is denied and you disagree, you can file an appeal with additional supporting documentation within 30 days of the denial decision.

Packaging Requirements for Claims: POSTNL requires specific packaging standards for items to be eligible for damage claims. Fragile items must be bubble-wrapped and placed in rigid boxes with at least 2 inches of cushioning material on all sides. Liquids must be in sealed plastic bags. Electronics need anti-static protection. Inadequate packaging is the #1 reason for damage claim denials.

Tips for Successful POSTNL Tracking

Choose the Right Service Level: Select shipping services based on urgency and value. Use Priority Package or Business Parcel for time-sensitive items that need guaranteed delivery. Use Standard Package for non-urgent packages where cost is more important than speed. Always add tracking to Light Package for peace of mind - the small fee is worth it.

Ensure Address Accuracy: Double-check recipient addresses including apartment numbers, buzzer codes, and postcodes. Use POSTNL's Address Complete tool to validate addresses before shipping. Include phone numbers and email addresses so POSTNL can contact recipients about delivery issues. Incorrect addresses are the leading cause of delivery failures and returns.

Package Properly for Protection: Use sturdy corrugated boxes appropriate for item weight and size. Cushion items with bubble wrap, foam peanuts, or crumpled paper - minimum 2 inches on all sides for fragile items. Seal boxes with quality packing tape (not masking tape). Mark fragile items clearly. Proper packaging prevents damage and ensures claim eligibility.

Save Your Receipt and Tracking Number: Always keep your POSTNL mailing receipt with the tracking number. Take a photo or write down the tracking number immediately. If the receipt is your only proof of mailing and you lose it, filing claims becomes difficult. For valuable items, consider emailing yourself the tracking number as backup.

Enable Delivery Notifications: Sign up for POSTNL's email and SMS tracking notifications through My POSTNL. You'll receive automatic alerts when packages are accepted, in transit, out for delivery, delivered, or delayed. This is free and much more convenient than manually checking tracking. Update your My POSTNL preferences to enable all notification types.

Register for My POSTNL: If you're frequently not home during delivery hours or live in an area with package theft concerns, register for My POSTNL. Having packages sent directly to POSTNL points eliminates failed delivery attempts and ensures secure storage until pickup. It's completely free and more secure than doorstep delivery for valuable items.

Insure Valuable Items: For items worth more than €500, purchase additional declared value coverage. It only costs a few euros extra and protects your valuable shipments. Always keep receipts and documentation proving item value - required for filing claims. Don't skip insurance thinking "it won't happen to me."

Ship Early for Deadlines: Don't wait until the last minute for birthday gifts, holiday packages, or deadline-sensitive documents. Even Priority Package can be delayed by weather or operational issues. Ship at least 3-5 business days before critical deadlines. During holiday seasons, add even more buffer time - December is POSTNL's busiest month.

Track Proactively: Check tracking regularly, especially around estimated delivery dates. If you notice unusual delays or tracking hasn't updated in expected timeframes, contact POSTNL immediately rather than waiting. Early intervention often resolves issues before they become serious problems. Don't assume "no news is good news."

Understand International Requirements: Research destination country customs requirements, prohibited items, and typical processing times before shipping internationally. Accurately complete customs forms - errors cause delays and can result in package seizure. Inform recipients they may owe duties and taxes. Set realistic expectations for international delivery timelines.

Keep Communication Open: If you're the sender, provide tracking numbers to recipients immediately after shipping. If you're the recipient expecting a package, stay in contact with the sender about tracking updates and any issues. Good communication between sender and recipient resolves most tracking problems quickly.