Want to send a package abroad and looking for the best shipping option? Below, you’ll find the key information on rates, delivery times, and parcel services such as PostNL, DHL, DPD, GLS, and UPS. This will help you make the right choice quickly!
Does it work differently, or just the same?
Sending a package abroad works largely the same as within the Netherlands, but there are a few additional considerations. Costs and delivery times are often higher, and you need to take customs regulations into account, especially when shipping outside the EU.
Import duties and additional administrative fees may also apply. Not all carriers offer worldwide shipping, so it’s important to check in advance which parcel service is suitable for your destination.
How much does it cost to send a package abroad?
Germany is one of the most popular destinations in Europe for shipping, so we’re including it as an example in the table below showing the rates:
|
Carrier |
Rate to Germany (from) |
Notes |
|
PostNL |
~€13.00 |
Standard rate for a package up to 2 kg (track & trace included). |
|
DHL |
~€10.00 - €15.00 |
DHL Parcel (cheaper) vs. DHL Express (faster, but more expensive). |
|
UPS |
~€15.00 - €20.00 |
Business shipping service, usually a little more expensive but with fast delivery. |
|
DPD |
~€9.00 - €12.00 |
Primarily focused on European road transport, often at competitive rates. |
|
GLS |
~€9.00 - €13.00 |
Also focused on Europe, similar to DPD. |
Why do prices vary?
-
Zones: Within Europe, some carriers use different zones (e.g., Western, Central, and Eastern Europe). The price may be higher if your package needs to go to a more distant zone within Europe.
-
Delivery time: Express deliveries are more expensive than economy/standard services.
-
Weight and dimensions: The heavier and larger the package, the higher the shipping costs.
Shipping costs outside Europe
Once you ship outside Europe, rates and delivery times usually increase. The United States is a common destination outside Europe, so we’re including it as an example:
|
Carrier |
Rate to the US (from) |
Notes |
|
PostNL |
~€24.30 |
Standard international rate up to ±2 kg. Includes track & trace; exact price depends on the dimensions. |
|
DHL |
~€20.00 - €35.00 |
DHL Express is often faster, but considerably more expensive than DHL Parcel International. |
|
UPS |
~€30.00 or higher |
Known for fast deliveries and business services. Rates start higher, but customs clearance is often fast. |
|
DPD |
Varies greatly |
DPD focuses primarily on Europe; shipments outside Europe are handled through partners. Prices and delivery times vary. |
|
GLS |
Varies greatly |
International shipping is (partly) handled through partners. Prices are often higher or there are fewer options than with PostNL/DHL/UPS. |
Important considerations outside Europe
-
Customs & import duties: When shipping outside the EU, you may have to pay import duties and VAT and deal with customs formalities. This can result in additional costs and delays.
-
Insurance: If you want to ship expensive items, additional insurance is sometimes recommended. This affects the price.
-
Shipping time: Standard shipping to the US can take 6-10 business days (or longer); express is faster but more expensive.
Tips for saving money
-
Compare providers: Rates can vary by carrier and service. Use online comparison tools or check with several carriers.
-
Package size: Try to pack your parcel as compactly as possible. Some carriers use volumetric weight (length x width x height).
-
Insurance & tracking: Check whether your shipment is insured and/or includes track & trace as standard. Sometimes a slightly more expensive rate that includes tracking is better value than paying extra for add-ons later.
How quickly is a parcel delivered?
The delivery time for a parcel sent abroad varies by carrier and destination:
-
PostNL: Within Europe, 2-5 business days; worldwide, 5-14 business days
-
DHL: Within Europe, 1-4 business days; worldwide, 2-7 business days
-
DPD: Within Europe, 2-5 business days; no worldwide shipping
-
GLS: Within Europe, 2-4 business days; no worldwide shipping
-
UPS: Within Europe, 1-3 business days; worldwide, 2-6 business days
Want to ship faster? Choose express services such as DHL Express or UPS Express for faster delivery.
What are the conditions for each carrier?
PostNL
PostNL is one of the most popular options for international shipping. It offers competitive rates and broad coverage. The maximum weight is 31.5 kg and the maximum parcel dimensions are 175 x 58 x 78 cm.
DHL
DHL is known for its fast deliveries. It has a maximum weight of 70 kg and a maximum length of 120 cm. DHL Express is a good option when speed is a priority.
DPD
DPD offers competitive prices for packages within Europe. The maximum dimensions are 100 cm in length and a maximum girth of 250 cm (1x length + 2x width + 2x height). DPD is less suitable for international shipping because it focuses mainly on Europe.
GLS
GLS is ideal for businesses that regularly ship packages. The maximum length is 200 cm and the total dimensions must not exceed 300 cm. Worldwide shipping is not available.
UPS
UPS offers the fastest shipping options, but is more expensive. The maximum weight is 70 kg, and the maximum length is 274 cm. UPS Express is the best choice for urgent shipments.
Helpful tips for shipping cheaply
-
Choose the right packaging: Avoid extra costs by keeping your package within the permitted dimensions.
-
Ship with tracking: Avoid uncertainty and always choose a shipping option with track & trace.
-
Check customs regulations: Outside the EU, import duties and customs forms are often required.
What can Crazylabels do for you?
A well-shipped package starts with the right shipping labels and labels. At Crazylabels.nl you'll find a wide range of shipping labels suitable for DHL, PostNL, DPD, GLS, and UPS. We have high-quality labels from brands like Dymo, Zebra and Brother to ensure your package is always clearly addressed and trackable.
With the right labels and packaging, you can avoid delays and ensure your shipment goes smoothly. Browse our range and easily order the best labels for your international shipment!