Please note that if you need help, there are various parties available to support you.
Our local consultant can advise you on the best way to get your goods in the country and comply to all regulations.
First of all you may have to pay import duties or settle VAT. There are certain thresholds for both of these charges, e.g. while importing in the EU you don’t have to pay import duties on any shipment worth less than € 150.
There may also be non-financial bariers, like certifications or approvals to be obtained. Especially for food, cosmetics or medicine this may be the case. Check this in advance, even before you invest in your marketing.
The best preparation for doing business in any country is visiting it. This way you can experience the culture, check the shops and build your network.
When importing goods into the Netherlands, it is essential to follow a structured process to ensure compliance with customs regulations. The Dutch customs authority, Douane (part of the Belastingdienst), oversees import procedures. They provide an English-language website with detailed information on import duties, forms, and procedures: Dutch Customs – English.
For single parcels, couriers like DHL, FedEx, UPS, and PostNL provide reliable shipping services. Costs from the USA typically range between €25-€50 for a 2kg parcel, while economy shipping from China may cost €15-€30. Express shipping (3-5 days) is available at higher rates. Always check rates directly with service providers for accurate pricing.
Getting your products imported and delivered in a specific country can be a challenge. I have good experience with Tecex, who can act as your importer of record and even physical distributor. If you leave your details, they will contact you.