Belgian Postage Rates & Stamps: Everything You Need to Know

Whether you're sending a birthday card to a friend in Liège or mailing a document to a client in Brussels, understanding Belgian postage rates will save you both time and money. This guide covers stamp types, letter pricing, and how to make sure your mail arrives on time.

Types of Stamps in Belgium

bpost offers several types of stamps to suit different mailing needs:

Prior (Red) Stamps

Prior stamps are for priority mail. Letters sent with a Prior stamp are delivered the next business day within Belgium. These stamps are marked with the word "Prior" and a red indicator. They cost more but guarantee faster delivery.

Non-Prior (Green) Stamps

Non-Prior stamps are for standard mail. Delivery takes 2–3 business days. These are more economical and suitable when speed isn't critical.

Tariff-1 and Tariff-2

Belgian stamps are priced in tiers based on weight and size:

  • Tariff 1 (T1): Standard letters up to 50g (domestic)
  • Tariff 2 (T2): Larger envelopes or heavier letters (up to 100g domestic)

Always check the bpost website for the most current tariff rates, as these are subject to annual review.

International Stamps

For mail going outside Belgium, you need a stamp marked with a globe or "Europa/World" indicator. Europe-bound letters use a different rate than worldwide destinations.

How to Calculate the Right Postage

The postage for a letter or small packet is determined by:

  1. Weight: Weigh your envelope with contents. Standard letter slots are up to 50g, 100g, and 350g.
  2. Size: An oversized or thick envelope may be classed differently. Standard envelopes must be no larger than 353 × 250 mm and no thicker than 20 mm.
  3. Destination: Domestic, Europe, or worldwide.
  4. Speed: Prior (next day) or Non-Prior (2–3 days).

Where to Buy Stamps in Belgium

Stamps are available from multiple sources:

  • bpost post offices — the most complete range including collectors' editions
  • bpost parcel points — many supermarkets and convenience stores
  • Online via bpost.be — buy digital stamps (e-stamps) or have physical stamps delivered
  • Newspaper kiosks and tobacconists — often stocked with basic domestic stamps

E-Stamps: The Digital Alternative

bpost offers e-stamps (digital postage labels) you can purchase and print from home via the bpost website. This is especially convenient for businesses or frequent senders who don't want to visit a post office. You can generate a label with a barcode, print it on a sticker or plain paper, and affix it to your envelope.

Tips for Avoiding Underpayment

Underpaid mail is one of the most common reasons for delayed or returned letters. Here's how to avoid it:

  • Always weigh your envelope after sealing and adding contents.
  • Use a postage calculator on bpost.be before buying stamps.
  • When in doubt, use a slightly higher-rate stamp — overpayment is never a problem.
  • For thick or stiff envelopes (e.g., with cards), check whether it qualifies as a "large letter" or "packet" — these require different postage.

Bulk Mailing Discounts

If you regularly send large volumes of mail — such as invoices, newsletters, or direct mail campaigns — bpost offers bulk mailing contracts with discounted rates. These are aimed at businesses and require a minimum volume per mailing. Visit the bpost business portal or contact their business team for details.