What is Netflix DVD-by-mail and how does it work
Netflix DVD-by-mail is a membership option that lets you rent physical DVDs and Blu‑rays via an online queue. You choose a plan with a set number of DVDs out at a time, create up to your plan limit of queues, add titles, and we ship them to your address. When we receive your disc, we process your next queued title automatically. You can keep discs as long as you like with no due dates or late fees, and you can return them early by dropping them in a prepaid USPS box or using a label from the app.
When your disc is scanned at our facility, the next disc in your queue ships, typically within one business day. DVD-by-mail is available as an add‑on to the standard streaming membership or as a standalone option on certain plans, depending on your region. It is designed for members who want access to the growing library of disc‑exclusive releases, classic films, and niche collections not always available to stream.
Plan limits and queue behavior
Each plan specifies a maximum number of DVDs you can have checked out at once. For example, the basic disc plan might allow 1 disc at a time, while higher tiers allow 2 or 3. You can maintain multiple DVD queues, but the total number of discs across all your queues cannot exceed your plan limit. When you return a disc, the next one in the same queue ships automatically, provided the items beneath it are available and properly prioritized.
You can reorder titles within a queue, move titles between queues, or promote a title to the top of a specific queue to influence shipping priority. Some limited titles may have extended availability periods or temporary restrictions, and low‑stock situations can slightly delay shipment for certain popular releases. Netflix may also adjust plan eligibility and DVD‑by‑mail availability over time based on local operations and content licensing.
Netflix DVD-by-mail vs streaming: what is the difference
The primary distinction is delivery method and content access. DVD-by-mail ships physical discs to you, giving you access to the disc‑exclusive catalog and the ability to watch without an internet connection. Streaming delivers instant digital playback from our app over the internet and includes the broadest Netflix library. DVD‑by‑mail and streaming can be combined on a single membership, letting you switch between discs and streams depending on your connectivity or viewing preferences.
| Attribute | DVD-by-mail | Streaming |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery | Physical disc via mail | Digital playback over internet |
| Data use | None while watching (after delivery) | Uses internet data |
| Due dates/late fees | None (keep as long as desired) | No physical media; access while subscribed |
| Catalog access | DVD‑exclusive and select Blu‑ray titles | Largest streaming library |
| Device requirements | Compatible disc player or game console | Smart TV, phone, tablet, computer, streaming device |
Which Netflix plans include DVD-by-mail
DVD‑by‑mail is available as an add‑on to many standard streaming plans, with the specific tier dictating how many discs you can have out at once. On some plans, DVD‑by‑mail may be offered as a standalone option. The number of DVDs you can receive simultaneously depends on the plan you select and your region. You can view and change your DVD‑by‑mail options in the Membership & Billing section of your account under DVD Settings, where you can also confirm current availability in your area.
Changing your disc plan or queue limits
To change the number of DVDs you can receive at a time, update the disc plan in your account settings under Membership & Billing. You can switch tiers on a monthly basis, and the change typically takes effect with the next billing cycle. When you reduce a plan, any excess discs must be returned before we ship additional discs under the new limit. Plan changes do not affect your streaming membership if you have a combined plan; they only modify your DVD‑by‑mail allowance.
Keep in mind that some regional restrictions and local postal requirements may affect shipping speed, service availability, or eligible payment methods. DVDs are shipped in standard packaging; in some locations, we may use a third‑party logistics provider. Additional details about handling, returns, and prohibited items are available in the DVD‑by‑mail Help section of your account.
How much does Netflix DVD-by-mail cost
The cost of DVD‑by‑mail is bundled into your monthly membership fee rather than charged per disc. Your monthly fee varies by plan and region and includes both streaming access and the selected DVD‑by‑mail tier. Certain promotions or introductory pricing may apply for new members, and currency fluctuations can affect international pricing. Fees, plan eligibility, and DVD‑by‑mail availability may change over time, so it’s best to confirm current pricing in your account’s Membership & Billing section.
Price transparency and billing notes
You will see a single monthly line item for your membership that covers streaming and disc services together. There are no extra per‑delivery or per‑return fees for DVD‑by‑mail; once your discs are in your queue, shipping and returns are covered by your plan. Taxes, local surcharges, or regulatory fees may be included in your billing depending on your location. If you cancel your membership, DVD‑by‑mail access ends with the next billing period, and any unreturned discs must be returned to avoid interruption of service.
DVD-by-mail vs Redbox and other disc services
Compared with traditional kiosks, Netflix DVD‑by‑mail eliminates due dates, late fees, and the need to travel to a physical location. While Redbox is useful for new theatrical releases, Netflix DVD‑by‑mail gives you time to browse a deep, pre‑selected queue and keep discs as long as you need them. Some members use DVD‑by‑mail for niche collections or to reduce streaming data usage, while others pair it with streaming for a complete home entertainment setup.
- No due dates or late fees with Netflix DVD‑by‑mail
- Queue-based selection similar to a personal video library
- Access to disc‑exclusive releases and Blu‑ray titles
- Combine with streaming on one membership for flexibility
Is Netflix DVD-by-mail right for you
DVD‑by‑mail is a good fit if you value physical media, want access to disc‑exclusive releases, or experience unreliable internet connectivity. It is also useful for households that prefer to build a curated movie or TV collection with the option to sample many titles via a queue. While it is not intended as a same‑day rental service, it provides a low‑friction way to enjoy movies and series on discs without worrying about returns or late fees. Review the plan details, queue limits, and regional availability to confirm that DVD‑by‑mail aligns with your viewing habits.