nuOct 26, 2026, 06:47

Dutch people ordering far fewer packages from abroad via PostNL

PostNL reports a 32 percent decline in parcel deliveries from outside the EU following the implementation of a new import fee. To cope with shrinking mail volumes, the company has shifted to a two-day standard delivery service and is seeking government support to cover operational costs.

Since July 1, a three-euro fee has been imposed on purchases from web shops outside the European Union, a measure designed to decrease the popularity of imports from the Chinese market. PostNL reported that the volume of international parcels delivered in the Netherlands dropped by 32 percent during the third quarter compared to the same period last year, primarily due to a decline in shipments from Asia. Despite this decrease in volume, PostNL CEO Pim Berendsen noted that revenue per parcel increased, leading to overall positive financial results for the company's parcel division.

Simultaneously, PostNL has adjusted its operations to address a 3.6 percent decline in mail volume. The company now delivers standard mail within two days instead of one to manage operational costs. A spokesperson indicated that mail delivery continues to lose money, and the company is seeking 80 million euros in government support to fulfill its universal service obligation.

Economy Business Netherlands

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Based on reporting by nu. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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