Every year, carriers set their rates for the coming year based on cost developments, such as fuel and wage cost developments. In addition, investments are needed to make logistics more sustainable and to meet increasing demand. For example, investments are being made in new sorting centers, retail outlets and staff increases. We can imagine that you have a lot of questions about these rate changes, so we have listed the ten most frequently asked questions for you.
- What are the changes and new rates as of January 1, 2023?
- Why are the rates being increased from 1 January 2023?
- Why has the indexation been announced so late this year?
- Will the rates only be increased at MyParcel or also at other online shipping platforms?
- Will the rates only be increased at PostNL or also at other carriers?
- How are the new rates calculated?
- Why does PostNL charge an energy surcharge?
- Will the energy surcharge be scrapped once fuel prices fall?
- Why will PostNL base the rates for EU shipments on weight scales as of 1 January 2023?
- How is the price based on weight scales set? Do I need to specify the weight when creating the shipping label?
1. What are the changes and new rates as of January 1, 2023?
A complete overview of all rates for 2023 can be found in this handout.
2. Why are the rates being increased from 1 January 2023?
Every year, carriers set their rates for the coming year based on cost developments, such as fuel and wage cost developments. In addition, investments are needed to make logistics more sustainable and to meet increasing demand. For example, investments are being made in new sorting centers, retail outlets and staff increases.
3. Why has the indexation been announced so late this year?
The NEA indexation, which carriers use to set their rates for the coming year, was announced later than usual this year. As a result, carriers were delayed in setting their rates.
4. Will the rates only be increased at MyParcel or also at other online shipping platforms?
The rates will be increased at all online shipping platforms. This has to do with the annual rate increase of all carriers.
5. Will the rates only be increased at PostNL or also at other carriers?
The rates will be increased at all carriers. They do this based on the costs increase and the NEA index.
6. How are the new rates calculated?
The new rates are based on the developments in the e-commerce industry over the past year, combined with the NEA index set. This is also known as the annual cost increase calculation for road transport.
After the big growth figures in the e-commerce industry in 2021, this year’s figures have dropped to pre-coronavirus pandemic levels. This year’s figures can also be attributed to developments in Ukraine and the impact on the economy, such as high fuel and energy prices and inflation. All these developments form the basis for the calculation of the NEA index. For 2023, the NEA index has been set at 8.7%. Across the entire market, the rates for the year to come are determined based on the NEA index and the expected increase in costs.
7. Why does PostNL charge an energy surcharge?
The higher energy and fuel prices are greatly affecting consumers and businesses alike. As a result of this increase, PostNL will be introducing an energy surcharge of € 0,12 per parcel starting on 1 January 2023. The energy surcharge will apply to all parcel types.
8. Will the energy surcharge be scrapped once fuel prices fall?
As of January 1, 2023, PostNL charges an energy surcharge due to the high energy and fuel prices. We don’t know if this surcharge will go away once fuel prices fall. We will be kept informed about this by PostNL. As soon as we know more, you will hear from us in time.
9. Why will PostNL base the rates for EU shipments on weight scales as of 1 January 2023?
The weight of a shipment greatly affects the handling process. Lighter parcels go through the shipping process easier and faster than heavier parcels. For this reason, PostNL is going to base the rates for EU shipments on weight scales as of 1 January 2023.
10. How is the price based on weight scales set? Do I need to specify the weight when creating the shipping label?
The shipping rate is set based on the weight of the parcel. A weight of 0-2 kg is assumed by default. If your parcel weighs more than that, you need to enter this information when creating the shipment.
In conclusion.
We hope you have found the answer to your question and that you have a better idea of the rate changes. Take a look at our handout for a complete overview of all fees and surcharges. If you have any questions following this email, please feel free to contact us. We are at your service six days a week.
