Dutch dodging high shipping costs by sending packages through sales platform Vinted
Dutch people are using the popular online marketplace Vinted to ship large packages or personal items for a fraction of what it would cost to send these same items through PostNL or another courier, AD reports based on its own research.
Someone lists a package “for sale” on Vinted at a very low price, like €1. A family member, friend, or the same person using a different account then buys the package, which is shipped via Vinted’s partner couriers. Vinted’s shipping costs are much lower than those of other couriers like PostNL.
The newspaper tested the method to see if it could dodge airlines’ baggage fees in the same way. It listed a “clothing item” for sale at €1 and bought it using a second account. It then had the item delivered to a collection point in Milan. Vinted’s shipping cost €6 for a “large package,” a size that easily fits a suitcase. Checking the same bag onto a flight within Europe would cost dozens of euros more.
The method is widely discussed on social media and forums like Reddit, including by many Dutch people. “Vinted is a great way to send stuff very cheaply,” the newspaper quoted one Dutch user. “I once sent something to Spain with the courier service FedEx, and it cost me 65 euros. That took a very long time. With Vinted, I can ship something abroad for 5 or 6 euros.”
Vinted told AD that it is aware of these practices and stressed that it is against the rules. “Our teams are vigilant in this area and are actively working on it,” a spokesperson said. "Even if it's only marginal, this kind of abuse undermines trust between members and can impact the overall quality and experience."
Vinted is taking action against anyone caught abusing the system. Accounts have been deleted and blocked, the spokesperson said.
