In March 2017 the PostNL Baggage Service was introduced for passengers from Schiphol Airport. Since this week, the existing self-service baggage drop-off technology used at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is also used for this baggage service. The technology from the Scarabee Aviation Group provides a scalable and future-proof solution. As a result, more passengers and airlines will soon be able to use this service.

A PostNL deliverer collects the luggage and scans the boarding passes at the doorstep. The information is verified via the Schiphol systems with the relevant airline, which means that the baggage is checked in immediately. At the airport, the suitcase is loaded onto the aircraft through the regular process, after which it can be collected at the baggage claim of the destination. This allows the passenger to travel to Schiphol without any hold baggage and he can proceed to security immediately upon arrival at the airport.

Joint innovation in the travel process

“Schiphol continuously innovates to make the travel process as pleasant as possible. With smart digital solutions, we optimize the passenger flow and further improve the passenger experience”, according to Henk-Jan Gerzee, Royal Schiphol Group's Chief Digital Officer.

"The step from ‘self-service Bagdrop’ to ‘online Bagdrop’ is an important innovation in the travel process. The cooperation between Schiphol Airport, PostNL and Scarabee results in more choice for the passenger with a carefree journey in prospect. The passenger can get on board knowing that his or her suitcase is in good hands”, says Michael Tan, CEO of the Scarabee Aviation Group.

“By working together to professionalize the baggage service, Schiphol, Scarabee and PostNL ensure that the process is even smoother. In addition, we relieve the burden from travelers and offer them convenience. We see, for example, that 40% of the users of the baggage service are switching to public transportation. Travelling to the airport without suitcases should be a natural choice”, says Liesbeth Kaashoek, Director of Parcels and Logistics at PostNL.

PostNL Baggage service

In March 2017, PostNL introduced the pilot baggage service for passengers traveling from Schiphol and Eindhoven airport, which was continued in 2018. The PostNL baggage service has two variants. At the check-in service, luggage is collected at home, sealed and checked in by PostNL for the traveler. The check-in service is now only available for passengers travelling with Corendon. It is expected to be extended to other airlines. In addition, there is also the standard service whereby luggage is collected at home and delivered to the airport. The traveler can pick up the suitcases at the airport and then checks in the baggage himself. This service is offered through the NS (Dutch Railway Company) and other travel organizations.

Source: PostNL