Zalando Netherlands Guide: New Return Rules & Free Plus (2026)

Finding reliable fashion retailers in the Netherlands is easy; the challenge is navigating the logistics without overpaying for shipping or missing return deadlines. Zalando remains the dominant force in the market, holding roughly 12% of all European online apparel sales as of 2025. However, the platform has undergone significant operational changes this year that seasoned shoppers might have missed.

Whether you are an expat figuring out the Dutch UI or a local looking to maximize the new loyalty system, this guide breaks down the reality of shopping on Zalando right now.

How to Register (Without Getting Lost in Translation)

The Dutch interface can be tricky if you are used to the English or French versions of the site. Previous guides often referenced incorrect buttons (like the French “S’incrire”). Here is the accurate path to getting set up on the Dutch platform:

• Navigate: Go to Zalando.nl and look for the human icon in the top right corner.
• Select: Click on “Registreren” (Register). Do not look for “Sign Up”; it isn’t there.
• Input: You will need standard details: Name, email, and fashion preferences.
• Verify: Click “Afronden” to finish. You must click the verification link sent to your email to activate the account.

The Buying Process: Avoiding Friction

The checkout flow is straightforward, but pay attention to the terminology. Once you have added items to your cart via “Toevoegen aan winkelwagentje,” proceed to checkout.

The final confirmation button is usually labeled “Bestellen en betalen” (Order and pay). Unlike other Netherlands online shopping sites that might use vague terms, Zalando is explicit here. Once clicked, you will receive an email confirmation. Standard delivery in the Netherlands currently takes 2 to 6 working days.

The “Hidden” Costs: Shipping & Minimums

Many shoppers assume Zalando shipping is always free. In late 2025, that is only partially true. You need to watch your cart total to avoid unnecessary fees.

• The €25.00 Threshold: Orders above €25.00 are delivered free.
• The Fee: If your cart is below €25.00, you will be charged €3.95 for standard shipping.
• Express Option: Need it fast? Express delivery (1-2 days) costs approximately €4.95, regardless of order valueunless you are a Plus member.

Inventory: What Are You Actually Buying?

Forget the old figures of 300,000 products. As of 2025, Zalando’s ecosystem has exploded to include over 7,000 brands. This massive expansion is part of their strategy to capture 15% of the total European fashion market. While this means more choice, it also means more scrolling. Use the filters aggressively to narrow down millions of items to the few that actually fit your style.

Major Update: Return Policy Change (Warning!)

This is the most critical update in this guide. For years, Zalando was famous for its 100-day return policy. That era is over.

Effective from January 7, 2025, the return period in the Netherlands has been shortened to 30 days. This aligns with their policies in Germany and Italy. If you are used to buying winter coats and deciding on them two months later, you need to break that habit immediately.

How to Return Items

Despite the shorter window, the process remains relatively smooth:

• Log in and select “Artikel terugsturen” (Return item).
• Pack the items and attach the return label provided in the box.
• Drop it off at a PostNL point.
• Pro Tip: If you want home pickup for returns, you generally have to pay (~€4.95) unless you have high tier status in the new loyalty program.

Zalando Plus: Now Free (But Tiered)

If you were paying €9.95 a year for Zalando Plus, stop. As of February 2025, Zalando scrapped the paid subscription model in the Netherlands. It is now a free, points based loyalty program.

The new system has four levels: Light, Shine, Star, and Superstar. You earn points by shopping. The real value lies in the higher tiers (Star and Superstar), which unlock:

• Free Express Delivery: Skip the 2-6 day wait.
• Home Return Pickup: The courier comes to you, saving you a trip to the post office.
• Early Access: Get first dibs on sales before the general public.

Gift Cards: Flexible Amounts

Contrary to older information stating cards are fixed at €50, you have flexibility. You can purchase digital or physical gift cards in values ranging from €5 to €200. This makes them a viable option for small gestures or significant birthday gifts. If you prefer hunting for vintage treasures rather than new clothes, check out the local flea markets in the Netherlands instead.

The Verdict

Zalando Netherlands remains the most convenient option for fashion, provided you respect the new rules. The transition to a free loyalty program is a win for frequent shoppers, but the reduction of the return window to 30 days requires you to be more decisive. Download the app for the smoothest experience, keep your orders above €25 to kill the shipping fee, and aim for “Star” status to get that courier pickup back.