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PostNL Package Decline: Deliveries Drop 15% Due to Tariffs

PostNL reports a 15% decline in international package deliveries due to new tariffs, with domestic deliveries also down by 4%.

Published 3 August 2026 · 12:05 CET
2 min read
PostNL package decline

International deliveries fall 15% due to tariffs, domestic down 4%.

PostNL, the Dutch postal service, has reported a significant decline in package deliveries during the first half of this year. The company experienced a 15% drop in international package deliveries, attributed to increased tariffs on non-EU imports. Domestic deliveries also saw a decline of 4%, marking a shift in logistics and consumer behavior within the Netherlands.

Impact of New Tariffs

The decline in international deliveries is primarily linked to the new import tariffs imposed on packages from outside the European Union. These tariffs have affected the cost structure for many Asian e-commerce platforms, leading to strategic pricing adjustments. According to PostNL director Pim Berendsen, “The tariffs have caused Asian companies to rethink their pricing strategies, which in turn has influenced the volume of packages being sent to the Netherlands.”

The higher tariffs have made it less attractive for consumers to purchase goods from non-EU countries, contributing to the 15% drop in international package deliveries. This change reflects a broader trend in consumer behavior, where shoppers are increasingly cautious about additional costs.

Domestic Deliveries Also Affected

While the international figures are more pronounced, domestic deliveries have not been immune to the changes. A 4% decrease in domestic package deliveries indicates that shifts in consumer habits are not limited to international purchases. This decline may be influenced by a variety of factors, including economic conditions and evolving consumer preferences.

Despite these challenges, PostNL’s revenue has remained stable at 1.6 billion euros. This stability suggests that the company has been able to offset some of the declines through other services or efficiencies within its operations.

Adapting to Market Changes

PostNL continues to adapt to these market changes as the logistics sector faces evolving challenges. Berendsen confirmed that the company is exploring new strategies to maintain its position in the market. “We are constantly looking at ways to innovate and improve our services to meet the changing needs of our customers,” he said.

These changes signify a notable shift in the logistics landscape in the Netherlands. As tariffs and consumer behaviors evolve, companies like PostNL must remain agile to handle these challenges effectively.

For more information about PostNL and its services, you can visit their official website or consult Rijksoverheid for further details on the new tariff regulations affecting imports.

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