Amsterdam Post Office Guide: Where and How to Send Mail in the City

Amsterdam Post Office Guide: Where and How to Send Mail in the City

Looking to send a postcard home, pick up a package, or find out where to buy stamps in Amsterdam? Whether you're a first-time tourist, a frequent visitor, or an expat settling into life in the Dutch capital, understanding how the Amsterdam post office system works will definitely come in handy. From opening hours to insider tips on finding the nearest branch, this guide has everything you need to navigate Amsterdam’s mail services like a local.

PostNL – The Backbone of Dutch Postal Services

In the Netherlands, most postal services are managed by PostNL , the national mail carrier. You’ll spot their familiar orange logo across the city on mailboxes, delivery vans, and post offices. Whether you're sending a simple postcard or a registered international parcel, PostNL is the go-to service in Amsterdam.

PostNL doesn’t operate traditional post offices like many countries. Instead, their services are embedded in shops and convenience stores, often referred to as “PostNL service points.” These can be found in supermarkets (like Albert Heijn), bookstores (like Bruna), and stationery shops all around the city.

Where to Find a Post Office in Amsterdam

Looking for a post office? Here are a few of the most convenient PostNL service points in central Amsterdam:

  • Bruna Central Station – Inside Amsterdam Central Station, ideal for tourists needing quick services.
  • Albert Heijn PostNL Point – Many branches throughout the city double as postal service points.
  • Bruna Haarlemmerdijk – Close to popular neighborhoods like Jordaan and Westerpark.
  • Primera Stores – Many Primera stores offer full postal services, including parcel pickups and returns.

Use the official PostNL locator tool ( PostNL Location Finder ) to find the nearest point by entering your hotel or street address.

Opening Hours and What to Expect

Opening hours for PostNL points vary based on the shop they’re located in. Typically, you can expect:

  • Weekdays: 08:30 – 18:00 or 19:00
  • Saturday: 09:00 – 17:00
  • Sunday: Closed (but some locations in major shopping areas may be open)

You won’t find long queues like at traditional post offices, but keep in mind that PostNL service points are run by store staff—so if it’s busy in the shop, postal help might be slower.

Sending Mail from Amsterdam

Sending mail from Amsterdam is easy. Here's what you need to know:

  • Postcards: Stamps for international destinations cost around €1.65. You can buy them at PostNL service points or souvenir shops.
  • Mailboxes: Red PostNL mailboxes are located on many street corners. They’re typically emptied Monday through Friday.
  • Letters and Parcels: For anything larger than a standard letter, visit a PostNL service point. You’ll receive a tracking code and receipt.

If you’re sending something valuable, opt for registered mail (“aangetekende post”), which provides tracking and proof of delivery.

Receiving Mail and Picking Up Packages

Staying in Amsterdam short-term and expecting a package? Here’s what you should know:

  • If you’re at a hotel, ask if they accept deliveries on your behalf.
  • If the delivery requires ID, you’ll need to visit a PostNL point with your tracking code and passport.
  • You can also have packages delivered to PostNL pickup points by choosing this option when shopping online (common with Dutch stores like Bol.com).

Note that packages are usually held for up to 7 days before being returned to sender.

Other Useful Services at Amsterdam Post Offices

PostNL service points also offer:

  • Prepaid shipping boxes and envelopes
  • Returns for major online retailers
  • Printing shipping labels (if you have a return barcode)
  • Basic ID or document shipping (for government purposes)

If you're staying in the Netherlands for a while, you might even register for a PostNL account to manage deliveries and redirect packages.

Local Tips for Sending and Receiving Mail

  • Most staff at PostNL points speak English, but it’s handy to know the Dutch word for stamp: “postzegel” .
  • Mailboxes have two slots: the left one is for local (postal code areas starting with your own), the right for all others.
  • Always get a receipt with tracking when mailing important documents or gifts.
  • Consider using your hotel’s front desk if you're unsure about dropping mail in public boxes.

Summary: Amsterdam Post Office Essentials

Amsterdam’s post office system may not look traditional, but it’s modern, accessible, and user-friendly. Whether you're sending a postcard, mailing a package, or picking up an order, PostNL has service points all over the city in places you already shop. Just remember to check opening times, bring ID for package pickup, and keep your tracking number handy!

FAQ: Amsterdam Post Office

  • Can I send international mail from Amsterdam?
    Yes! PostNL allows you to send mail and parcels worldwide. Just head to a service point.
  • Where can I buy stamps?
    PostNL service points, souvenir shops, and some bookstores sell them.
  • Is it safe to drop postcards in the red mailboxes?
    Absolutely. They’re emptied regularly and are reliable for international delivery.
  • What’s the fastest way to send mail from Amsterdam?
    Use registered international shipping for tracked, quicker delivery.

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