Frequently asked questions about surcharges for destinations outside Europe

These frequently asked questions are intended for companies that offer their international shipments through a business account (MijnPostNL) or through the PostNL API. The Coronavirus measures that are being taken around the world are having an impact on our international service. We no longer deliver to a number of destinations and we offer alternative transport for other destinations. This often entails different costs. We have therefore been forced to apply a temporary surcharge as of 13 April 2020 for shipments with destinations outside Europe (postal rate zone: Rest of World).

General

Why do I have to pay a surcharge for shipments outside Europe?

All destinations outside Europe are subject to a surcharge since 13 April 2020. These destinations are less easily accessible because international air traffic has been reduced drastically due to the coronavirus. Logistics companies such as PostNL have consequently had to look for other forms of transport. These often entail extra costs, which forces us to apply a surcharge.

What alternative forms of transport do you use exactly?

We use cargo planes. This is a more expensive means of transport. We normally hitch a ride on passenger flights for mail at a more favourable rate.

Until when will this surcharge apply?

It will apply as long as we are (partially) dependent on other forms of transport due to limited air traffic.

How much is the surcharge?

The exact surcharge varies per country and per type of shipment. The following rates apply on average:

Shipment	Surcharge
Parcels up to 2 kg	+ € 2,50 per item
Parcels up to 20 kg	+ € 3,60 per kg

What does the line [description] on my invoice mean?

This refers to the surcharge we apply temporarily as a result of more expensive alternative transport.

Can PostNL just implement this surcharge?

We do not increase the rates of regular transport, but we apply a surcharge for using an alternative. You can choose to avail yourself of the alternative or not to offer the shipment for destinations outside Europe for the time being. We cannot yet say when the normal rates will be applicable again.

What if I do not agree with this surcharge?

In that case, we advise you not to offer your shipment for destinations outside Europe during this period. We cannot yet say when the normal rates will be applicable again, but we will of course inform you as soon as possible.