The Netherlands is a popular entry point for businesses bringing goods into the European Union. Its ports, logistics network, and access to other European markets make it an attractive location for international trade.

However, importing goods involves more than arranging transportation. Businesses also need to consider company registration, customs identification, VAT, documentation, and logistics.

This guide explains the main steps businesses should understand when importing goods into the Netherlands.

Why Import Through the Netherlands?

The Netherlands has a strong logistics infrastructure and direct access to major European markets. Businesses can use the country as a distribution hub for customers in the Netherlands and other EU countries.

For an international founder planning to register a company in the Netherlands, import and distribution requirements should be considered alongside the company's wider setup.

Common reasons businesses choose the Netherlands include:

• Access to the EU single market
• Strong transport infrastructure
• Major international ports
• Established warehousing and distribution networks
• Convenient connections to other European countries

The right setup, however, depends on the products, suppliers, customers, and business model.

What Is Required to Import Goods?

Importing goods from outside the EU generally involves several administrative and customs steps.

A business may need to arrange:

1. A suitable business structure
2. VAT registration where applicable
3. An EORI number
4. Customs declarations
5. Commercial invoices and shipping documents
6. Product classification
7. Import duties and taxes
8. Transportation and storage

These requirements can vary depending on the type of goods and the specific transaction.

EORI Number for Importing Goods

One of the key customs requirements for many importers is an EORI number.

EORI stands for Economic Operators Registration and Identification. It provides a customs identification for businesses and other economic operators involved in relevant customs activities.

Businesses should check whether they already have an EORI number before applying for another one.

Companies preparing their first shipment can review the EORI number registration process in the Netherlands to understand the registration steps and information involved.

Example

A Dutch e-commerce company purchases inventory from a supplier in Asia. Before the goods arrive, the company needs to understand who will handle the customs declaration, which documentation is required, and how import VAT and duties will be treated.

Sorting these details out before shipment is much easier than trying to resolve them when the goods are already at the border.

Customs Documentation Matters

Importers need accurate documentation for customs clearance.

Depending on the shipment, documents can include:

• Commercial invoices
• Packing lists
• Transport documents
• Customs declarations
• Product information
• Origin documentation
• Import permits where applicable

The information across these documents should be consistent. Incorrect product descriptions, values, or classification can cause delays and additional administrative work.

Businesses should also understand who is responsible for customs activities. An importer may work with a customs broker or another representative to handle declarations.

Import VAT and Other Taxes

Importing goods can create VAT and customs obligations.

The exact treatment depends on the business, goods, transaction structure, and applicable Dutch and EU rules. Businesses should therefore assess their VAT position before beginning regular imports.

Import VAT is also separate from taxes that may apply to business profits. Companies planning their Dutch structure should understand the wider tax picture, including capital gains tax in the Netherlands where relevant to their circumstances.

Good tax planning at the beginning can prevent expensive corrections later.

What About Warehousing and Distribution?

Customs clearance is only one part of the import process. After goods arrive, businesses may need to store, inspect, package, and distribute them.

This becomes especially important when the Netherlands is being used as a European distribution hub.

A practical import plan should consider:

A company that plans these areas together can usually create a smoother supply chain.

Common Importing Mistakes

International businesses often make avoidable mistakes when entering the Dutch market.

Some common ones include:

• Starting shipments before checking customs requirements
• Treating EORI and VAT numbers as the same thing
• Using incorrect product classifications
• Providing inconsistent documentation
• Not deciding who will make customs declarations
• Underestimating storage and transportation costs
• Ignoring requirements that apply to specific products

The biggest issue is often poor preparation rather than the import process itself.

Final Thoughts

Importing goods into the Netherlands can give international businesses an efficient route into the European market, but the process needs proper planning.

Businesses should assess their company structure, EORI requirements, VAT position, customs documentation, and logistics before their first shipment.

By preparing these areas early, companies can reduce delays and build a more reliable import and distribution process in the Netherlands.