Want to send a quick card and there are no stamps in the drawer? PostNL's postzegelcode (stamp code) is a unique code that you simply write on your envelope in the place where you would normally stick a stamp. It is prepaid, works for letters and cards up to 50 grams, and is valid both within the Netherlands and for mail abroad.
You buy a code online or in the PostNL app in under a minute, receive it immediately, and write it down with a pen — black or blue, block letters, top right corner. PostNL's sorting machines read the code, even if your handwriting is untidy. This post explains exactly how the postzegelcode works, how to write it correctly, and answers the most frequently asked questions.
What Is a Postzegelcode?
A postzegelcode is a prepaid postage code with the same value as a regular stamp. Instead of buying a physical stamp, you purchase the code, receive it by e-mail and in your account, and write it on the envelope yourself. PostNL describes it as "de postzegel die je gewoon opschrijft" — the stamp you just write down.
- 1 minuteBuy a code in the PostNL app or webshop — available almost immediately
- Always readyNever without a stamp when a birthday card needs to go out
- Up to 50 gSend letters and cards in the Netherlands and worldwide, as long as they fit through the letterbox
How the Postzegelcode Works: 4 Steps
1. Buy your postzegelcode online. Go to the PostNL website or open the PostNL app and choose a postzegelcode. Payment is easy with iDeal | Wero or a credit card.
2. You get the code straight away. After payment the code appears immediately in your account or app, and you also receive a confirmation e-mail. The code is valid for 5 days, so you don't have to post your letter the same moment.
3. Write the code on the envelope. Use a black or blue pen and write the code in block letters in the spot where the stamp normally goes: top right on the front of the envelope or card.
4. Send your letter or card. Drop your post in an orange PostNL mailbox. The sorting machine reads the code — even if you don't write neatly.
1 · Buy the code online or in the PostNL app
2 · The code arrives at once and is valid for 5 days
3 · Write it in block letters, top right on the envelope
4 · Post it in an orange PostNL mailbox
How to Write the Code Correctly
PostNL's code scanner is forgiving, but a few rules make sure your letter is franked without a hitch:
- Write the code on the spot where the stamp normally goes.
- Use a black or blue pen.
- Write in block letters.
- Leave space between the characters.
- Stay within an imaginary square of 3 × 4 cm.
- Do not draw a grid or box around the code.
- Upper case or lower case makes no difference.
- A postzegelcode for abroad (EU) starts with PNL.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I send with a postzegelcode?
Cards and letters up to 50 grams, including mail abroad, as long as it fits through the letterbox: a maximum of 38 × 26.5 × 3.2 cm. Heavier than 50 g? Create an online shipping label or use regular stamps.
What does a postzegelcode cost?
Exactly the same as a regular stamp. The price depends on the weight and format of your mail.
Where do I write the code?
Top right on the front of your envelope or card, where the stamp is normally stuck. After purchase, PostNL shows on screen exactly how to write it — and the scanner also reads sloppy handwriting.
Can I use several codes on one envelope?
No. You use one postzegelcode per letter or card.
How long is the postzegelcode valid?
For 5 days after purchase, so you can post your letter whenever it suits you within those days.
Why Stamp Fans Should Know It
For collectors, the postzegelcode marks the digital side of franking: no adhesive stamp, no perforation, nothing that ends up in an album — just a handwritten code that a sorting machine validates. That makes it the opposite of a collectible, and exactly the kind of change the hobby is negotiating with postal operators worldwide.
It is also a handy tool for everyone who does send post: with a code in your pocket you are never stuck without a stamp, while PostNL keeps issuing the collectible sheets and miniature sheets — like the Deltawerken sheet — that fill albums. Two ways to send, one postal system.
Technical Specifications — Postzegelcode
| Issued by | PostNL (Netherlands) |
| Type | Prepaid digital postage code, written by hand |
| Weight limit | Up to 50 g |
| Maximum size | 38 × 26.5 × 3.2 cm (letterbox format) |
| Coverage | Netherlands and worldwide; EU codes start with PNL |
| Validity | 5 days from purchase |
| How to write it | Top right, block letters, black or blue pen, within a 3 × 4 cm area, no drawn box |
| Characters | No zero (0) is used — to avoid confusion with the letter O |
| Codes per envelope | One |
| Price | Same as a regular stamp, depending on weight and format |
| Where to buy | PostNL app or postnl.nl — paid with iDeal | Wero or credit card |