NETHERLANDS           

The below information is a brief summary of customs regulations when you plan your international shipping to Netherlands, Always double check with your local embassy or consulate to make sure you have all the information you need before you make your move. Contact the nearest Netherlands Embassy.

When you plan your international shipping to Netherlands, the following documents are required for customs clearance:

  • Passport (copy of pages 1-10)
  • Work Contract (copy)
  • Certificate of Residence
  • Residence Agreement (Rental or Purchase Contract)
  • Request for Import Permit — ALL anticipated SHIPMENTS (including AUTO) MUST BE INCLUDED IN THE ORIGINAL PETITION. IMPORT PERMIT is granted ONLY ONCE.
  • Application for Exemption from import duties
  • For Customer coming from NON-EUROPEAN COMMUNITY countries:
    • Form is provided by Destination Agent
    • Original form of registration in Customer’s new hometown
    • Statement from employer
  • Inventory (five copies) detailed and signed by the Customer must be legible and show:
    • Contents of all cartons (PBO “packed by owner” and MISC. “miscellaneous”, not acceptable)
    • APPLIANCE make, model and serial number
    • AUTO (or other motor vehicle) make, model, etc.

When shipping goods overseas to Netherlands, the following items customs guidelines will need to be met:

  • Used household goods and personal effects are duty-free provided:
    • The Customer has lived outside the Netherlands for at least 12 months (six months if previous residence was within the European Community)
    • Customer is transferring his principal residence to the Netherlands
    • The goods have been used for at least 12 months (six months if being imported within the European Community) prior to import
    • The goods are not sold or lent for at least 12 months (six months if being imported within the European Community) after importation
    • The goods are in accordance with the social status of the Customer
  • Re-importation of used household goods within one year requires special documents for duty-free import
  • If Customer is not staying in the Netherlands for a minimum of 12 months, bond will have to be posted for duties and taxes

When shipping goods overseas to Netherlands, The following items are dutiable and/or restricted:

  • New items (letter than six months old)
  • Alcohol and tobacco products (provide detailed description)
  • Electrical appliances
  • Foodstuff
  • Antiques and Works of Art
  • All weapons and ammunition are subject to special license and registration documents issued by the Police
  • If weapons are included with the household goods shipment, customer must be present for Customs clearance
  • Medicine (doctor prescription required, otherwise prohibited)
  • Precious metal objects (authorization from the “Kantoor Waarborg”)

When shipping goods overseas to Netherlands, the following items are prohibited, but not limited to,  from entry into the country:

  • Drugs and narcotics
  • All species of cactuses and orchids
  • Explosives
  • CB radios
  • Meat products
  • Products made from endangered or threatened exotic animals

When shipping Motor Vehicles overseas to Netherlands, the following documents and regulations will apply:

  • Customer’s presence at Customs Office is required to sign papers of exemption for Customs clearance
  • Duty-free if owned and used by Customer for six months or more and included in original request for Import Permit
  • Auto is not to be sold for at least one year after Customs clearance in the Netherlands
  • Keys must be available
  • Documents Required:
    • Original Registration Card
    • Purchase Invoice
    • International Liability Insurance Card (Green Card)
    • Title
    • Copy of Customer’s Passport (pages 1-10)
    • Copy of Lease or deed of residence
    • Dutch Registration
    • Copy of Work Contract
    • Original Form of Registration in Customer’s new hometown

Moving Pets to Netherlands, The following documents must be presented for the importation of pets:

  • Customer’s presence at Customs clearance is required
  • Health Certificate and Certificate of Rabies Vaccination required
  • Quarantine may be necessary


*NOTE:   SHIPPING DOCUMENTS MUST STATE CUSTOMER’S CONTACT ADDRESS AND TELEPHONE NUMBER (REQUIRED FOR IMPORT LICENSE)

If you are moving your household, commercial goods or motor vehicles to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Den Haag, Utrecht, Eindhoven or to another other city, please give us a call to go over any questions on documentation.

The regulations are subject to change without notice. our company is not liable for any costs, damage, delays, or other detrimental events resulting from non-compliance.