PostNL to cut 2,000–3,000 mail carrier jobs as delivery times extend

PostNL expects to operate with significantly fewer mail carriers in the near future. The FNV trade union estimates the downsizing will affect between 2,000 and 3,000 jobs, a figure confirmed by union board member Pieter Beuzenberg after reporting by the FD. Because the company will be permitted to take longer to deliver mail beginning in July, fewer carriers will be required.

The company expects to manage the reduction mainly through natural attrition, choosing not to replace staff who leave the postal division and scaling back on temporary hires. Staff turnover among the roughly 14,000 mail carriers is substantial. A spokesperson noted that over one-third of carriers switch jobs annually, adding that the company will still greatly rely on those who decide to remain.

For years, PostNL has faced falling mail volumes.The company says the steady contraction of its postal delivery arm has likewise been handled by allowing staff numbers to decrease through natural turnover. Despite this, the company announced a two million euro profit over its mail division in 2025 on Monday.

PostNL is cutting back on the number of mail depots, a move that may force some employees to travel farther to reach their workplace. The additional travel time to work may cause problems for mail carriers, FNV board member Beuzenberg fears.

He argues that many took the position precisely because it fits around other responsibilities. “There is a reason they work part-time for us. The job serves as a bridge, whether due to physical limitations, caregiving duties, or another job they hold in addition.”

The FNV trade union has criticized PostNL’s proposed social plan in case mail carriers are forced out of their jobs. Among its objections, the union argues that the severance compensation is insufficient and that the proposal fails to include funding for retraining and guidance toward new employment.