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Exporting and Importing Compliance in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is a critical trade hub within the European Union (EU), strategically located and boasting a world-class logistics infrastructure. As an EU member state, the Netherlands adheres to EU trade agreements, tariffs, and regulations, influencing its import and export practices. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, it offers extensive opportunities in green tech and digital services.
Tax
up to 21%
Duties
up to 7%
Lead times
1-2 weeks
Restricted Items
N/A
Best carrier option
Freight Forwarder or Courier
Non-working days
Sunday
Prominent Languages
Dutch
Import Requirements for Netherlands
To import into the Netherlands, you will require a registered business entity within the European Economic Area (EEA) and an EORI number. While you may have both the registered entity and EORI numbers, you might still want to avoid taking on the responsibility and risk of acting as the Importer of Record.
1. Establishing a Business Entity
Businesses must be registered within the European Economic Area (EEA) to import goods into the Netherlands. This includes obtaining an EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number, which is mandatory for customs declarations.
2. Customs Declaration and Entry Summary Declaration (ENS)
The Single Administrative Document (SAD) is used as the primary customs declaration for all imports into the Netherlands. It covers duties, VAT, and other taxes.
The Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) is a critical part of the Import Control System (ICS), which requires businesses to declare goods entering the EU before their arrival.
All companies, including non-EU businesses, need an EORI number to submit customs declarations or ENS.
3. Import Duties and VAT
The Netherlands follows the EU’s Common Customs Tariff, with duties ranging from 0% to 17%, depending on the goods. The general average tariff is 4.2%, but certain products (like electronics or machinery) may fall under specific preferential rates.
The standard VAT rate is 21%; however, essential goods like food and medicines are taxed at a reduced rate of 9%. VAT is calculated based on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value at the port of entry.
Businesses importing into the Netherlands are responsible for paying VAT and customs duties at the time of customs clearance. However, temporary imports that will be re-exported are not subject to VAT.
4. Non-Tariff Barriers
Non-tariff barriers in the Netherlands generally relate to product standards, safety requirements, and environmental regulations. Products such as electronics, machinery, and chemicals are subject to specific EU regulations, including compliance with CE marking standards.
Goods not meeting these standards may face delays or be denied entry until proven compliant.
5. Labelling and Packaging Requirements
Goods imported to the Netherlands must adhere to EU labeling and packaging standards. This includes clear product descriptions, usage instructions, and safety warnings in official EU languages.
6. Temporary Imports
Businesses importing commercial samples or professional equipment can utilize the ATA Carnet system. This allows temporary entry without paying duties or VAT.
Export Requirements for Netherlands
The Netherlands is a major exporter of industrial products, machinery, chemicals, and electronics. To export from the Netherlands, businesses must comply with both national and EU regulations:
1. Export Documentation
Similar to imports, exports require proper documentation, including customs declarations and possibly export licenses depending on the product category.
Goods must meet EU product standards and regulations before they can be exported, especially for restricted items like electronics, chemicals, or machinery.
2. Export Restrictions
The Netherlands, as part of the EU, follows strict export controls for certain goods, such as military technology or dual-use items that have both civilian and military applications. These products require special licenses and export documentation.
TecEx’s Solutions for Importing to the Netherlands:
- Importer of Record (IOR) and Exporter of Record (EOR): TecEx can assist businesses by acting as the IOR or EOR, ensuring smooth customs clearance and reducing liability.
- DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) Service: TecEx offers a comprehensive DDP solution, handling everything from pick-up and warehousing to final delivery, ensuring that all import duties, taxes, and compliance requirements are met.
- Pre-Compliance Checks: TecEx helps businesses by conducting thorough pre-compliance checks to ensure that shipments meet all necessary requirements for customs clearance. This includes verifying the accuracy of documentation like the SAD and ENS.
- VAT Reimbursement: In some cases, TecEx can help businesses recover VAT payments, reducing the overall cost of imports into the Netherlands.
Population
17,88 M
Biggest Industry by Export
Machinery and Equipment
Capital City
Amsterdam
Biggest Industry by Import
Crude Petroleum
Unique Dutch Pain Points and Challenges
Importing and exporting to the Netherlands involves navigating a highly regulated environment, and businesses may encounter the following challenges:
- Complex Customs Procedures: Despite the Netherlands’ reputation for efficiency, customs procedures can be detailed and require accurate documentation. Missing or incorrect paperwork, such as the SAD or ENS, can cause delays and complications in customs clearance.
- EORI Number Registration: Obtaining an EORI number is mandatory but can be a time-consuming and complex process. Inaccurate EORI data can lead to customs delays, fines, or the seizure of goods.
- VAT and Tariff Complexity: The Netherlands applies EU-wide VAT and tariff regulations, but the specific rates and duties depend on the nature of the goods being imported. Understanding how VAT is applied, particularly for temporary imports or re-exports, is crucial to avoid costly mistakes.
- Product Safety and Compliance: Many tech products, machinery, and electronics require compliance with strict EU safety standards. Obtaining the necessary certifications, such as the CE mark, can be time-consuming and costly if not properly managed.
Countries Associated with Netherlands
Europe
France
Europe
Germany
Dutch Compliance Regulations
Ensuring compliance with Dutch and EU regulations is essential for successful imports and exports:
CE Marking: Many products, especially electronics and industrial machinery, need to be CE marked before they can be legally imported or exported to/from the Netherlands. This ensures compliance with EU health, safety, and environmental standards.
EU Common Customs Tariff: The Netherlands applies the EU’s harmonized customs tariff, so importers and exporters must understand the applicable duties and taxes on their products.
EORI Number: Required for both imports and exports, an EORI number is essential for lodging customs declarations and the Entry Summary Declaration
Product Safety Standards: As part of the EU, the Netherlands enforces strict regulations on product safety, including certifications like CE marking and compliance with environmental regulations.
Overview of the Country’s Trade Landscape
Known for its strong focus on innovation, particularly in IT and green technology, the Netherlands plays a significant role in global commerce. It is a major point of entry for goods into the EU, with the Port of Rotterdam handling a large volume of freight, making it one of Europe’s busiest ports.
With a tech industry valued at €123 billion in 2021, the Netherlands is a prime destination for high-tech imports and exports, housing major multinational companies like IBM, Microsoft, Google, and NTT. The Netherlands is an attractive market for businesses in sectors such as electronics, machinery, chemicals, and sustainable technologies.
Partner with TecEx to navigate the complexities of Dutch trade compliance. With our expertise in EU regulations, we ensure a smooth process for both imports and exports, reducing risk and optimizing efficiency.
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