If you sell internationally on Shopify, you already know how important reliable tracking is. Customers don’t just want fast delivery; they also want to see exactly where their order is while it’s on the way. A clear tracking experience builds trust, while missing updates often lead to frustration and extra support questions.
That’s where PostNL makes a big difference. With its strong international shipping network and detailed tracking updates, it’s a carrier that helps you keep buyers informed from checkout to delivery. Whether you’re shipping within Europe or to customers overseas, PostNL has solid options for smooth cross-border delivery.
For Shopify sellers, PostNL is a great fit. It’s affordable, connects easily with Shopify, and lets you share real-time tracking details with your customers. That means fewer “Where’s my order?” emails and a much better shopping experience overall.
In This Article
- Understanding PostNL International Tracking
- How to Connect PostNL with Shopify
- Enhancing Customer Experience with PostNL Tracking
- Common Challenges in International Tracking with PostNL (and How PluginHive Helps)
- Conclusion
- FAQ’s
Understanding PostNL International Tracking
Every time you ship an order with PostNL, the system creates a unique tracking number. This number is tied to the package and makes it possible for both you and your customer to keep an eye on where the order is. It’s created as soon as you print the shipping label, so tracking starts right away.
From the customer’s side, the tracking page is straightforward. They’ll see updates when the parcel is picked up, when it’s on its way to another country, and when it’s handed over to the local courier who will finish the delivery.
There is a small difference between domestic and international tracking. For shipments within the Netherlands, updates usually come in faster and with more detail. For international orders, there can sometimes be a short gap in updates, especially while the parcel is moving through customs or being passed to a local delivery partner.
The main milestones customers will see include:
- Dispatch – when the order first leaves your hands.
- In Transit – while it’s moving between hubs or countries.
- Customs Clearance – when it gets checked at the border.
- Out for Delivery – when the local courier is on the way.
- Delivered – when it finally reaches your customer.
These simple updates go a long way in keeping customers informed and cutting down on “Where’s my order?” emails.
How to Connect PostNL with Shopify
- You can connect PostNL to your Shopify store in a few different ways. Some sellers handle shipping manually. Others prefer to use apps for a smoother and more automated process.
- One of the best options is the PH Multi-Carrier Shipping Label app. This app connects PostNL directly to your Shopify store. You don’t need to switch between platforms. You can create PostNL shipping labels right inside Shopify with just a few clicks.

- You can also print documents for shipping international orders, making it easier to handle customs forms and cross-border deliveries.

- The app also takes care of tracking. As soon as a label is created, the tracking number is added to the Shopify order. Your customer will get real-time updates automatically. You don’t need to send tracking details manually.


- Using the PH Multi-Carrier Shipping Label with PostNL saves time. It reduces errors. Most importantly, it gives your customers a better delivery experience.
Enhancing Customer Experience with PostNL Tracking
- A smooth tracking experience makes a big difference for your customers. With the PH Multi-Carrier Shipping Label app, PostNL tracking numbers are added directly to your Shopify orders. This means customers can track their parcels right from their order confirmation or Shopify account.
- Another helpful feature is Email notifications. When an order is marked as fulfilled, the tracking number can be sent by Email. Customers love the convenience of getting real-time updates on their email IDs.
- All of this helps reduce WISMO (“Where is my order?”) support tickets. When customers can see exactly where their package is, they don’t need to email or call for updates. That saves you time and gives buyers a better experience.
Common Challenges in International Tracking with PostNL (and How PluginHive Helps)
International shipping always comes with a few challenges, even with a reliable carrier like PostNL. The good news is that with the right Shopify tools, many of these issues can be handled smoothly.
- One common problem is tracking delays during customs clearance. Packages can sit at the border for a while, and updates don’t always appear immediately. With the PH Multi-Carrier Shipping Label app, customers can still see the most recent status, so they know their order is being processed and not lost.
- Merchants also worry about end-to-end visibility. Buyers expect to track their order from dispatch to delivery without confusion. PluginHive helps by automatically attaching tracking numbers along with tracking emails so customers are kept in the loop all the time.
To minimize customer confusion, it’s best to:
- Keep tracking updates in one place.
- Send email notifications as soon as an order is fulfilled.
- Set clear delivery expectations at checkout.
- Use PH Multi-Carrier Shipping Label app to sync updates from PostNL and partner couriers.
By tackling these challenges head-on, you reduce “Where is my order?” requests and create a smoother experience for international customers.
Conclusion
Reliable tracking is essential for international Shopify orders. Customers expect to know where their package is at every stage. With PostNL, you get a trusted carrier that offers strong international coverage and clear updates. It also handles handovers to local couriers smoothly.
When you connect PostNL with the PH Multi-Carrier Shipping Label app, everything becomes easier. Labels are generated automatically. Tracking numbers are updated in Shopify. Customers receive real-time updates without you lifting a finger.
This setup saves you time and reduces support requests. It also builds trust and improves the overall shopping experience.
For Shopify sellers who ship across borders, PostNL is a smart choice. It gives you seamless order management and ensures customers always stay informed. From checkout to delivery, the process stays simple and transparent.
FAQ’s
- How do I track an international package with PostNL?
With PostNL, you can track your package. If you use the PH Multi-Carrier Shipping Label app in Shopify, the tracking number is added automatically to the order. Customers then get real-time updates by email when the order is fulfilled.
- Does PostNL deliver internationally?
Yes. PostNL delivers parcels worldwide through its global network. Most European destinations receive deliveries within just a few working days, making it a fast and reliable option for international shipping.
- Can someone else pick up my package with PostNL?
Yes. Someone else can pick up your package, but they must bring the card left by the courier. They also need to show their ID and provide their address details to confirm the pickup.
