Shipping and Removals in the Netherlands

Rotterdam is Europe’s largest port. It’s efficiently run, so you should experience relatively few delays on the Netherlands’ side of the shipment. As always with removals, keep documentation such as invoices, inventories, carrier arrival notices, and customs forms handy.

Removals from within Europe could be handled by train, which should be quick and affordable. If you’re moving from outside Europe, you can choose sea or air freight. Shipping by sea takes longer than air freight but is usually cheaper. It’s worth shopping around for quotes.

Consider sending the most important belongings that you’ll need immediately by air freight, while less urgently needed items can follow by sea freight.

Don't forget to check out our guide to Relocation Companies in the Netherlands.

Shipping household goods to the Netherlands

Understanding the required documentation is necessary when shipping household goods to the Netherlands. You’ll need a signed inventory list detailing all personal items being imported, transport documents such as a bill of lading, and, if applicable, a certificate of origin. If you’re settling permanently, the Dutch municipality will require proof of registration.

Be aware of import restrictions. Certain items, such as narcotics, counterfeit goods, and protected animal species, are strictly prohibited. Cultural goods like art, antiques, and weapons require special permissions. Check ahead to avoid delays or confiscation of your belongings.

Shipping delays can happen, especially during peak seasons or due to port congestion. Weather and incomplete paperwork are also common culprits. Plan ahead and ensure all documents are in order to minimise disruptions.

Useful links

• Dutch Tax and Customs Administration
• Government Customs Information

Shipping pets to the Netherlands

When planning to bring pets into the Netherlands, ensure you’re familiar with the necessary regulations. All pets must have valid documentation, including a pet passport or a veterinary certificate translated into Dutch. Your pet must also be microchipped before or on the same day as their rabies vaccination. Pets must be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before entering the country.

Common reasons for pet quarantine include missing or invalid rabies vaccinations, improper microchipping, or incomplete paperwork. Pets arriving from countries with a high risk of rabies may also need additional testing or quarantine measures.

If you’re bringing a dog, register it with the local town hall and municipal tax office within two weeks of arriving. Many municipalities charge an annual dog tax (hondenbelasting), and the amount can vary depending on location and the number of dogs owned. Some cities charge more for additional dogs, while others may not impose this tax at all.

For animals other than dogs, cats, or ferrets, requirements may include veterinary health certificates or compliance with special import permits. Always verify with the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) to ensure you meet the latest regulations.

Useful links

• Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority
• Government Guide to Bringing Your Pets to the Netherlands

Shipping a car to the Netherlands

Public transport in the Netherlands is efficient, and cycle paths are extensive, so you may not feel the need to own a car. If you wish to ship your car to the Netherlands, hire a moving company specialising in car shipping. The moving company will advise on options, including container or roll-on/roll-off shipping – where cars are simply parked and secured on a vessel for ease of transporting them on and off.

Your car must pass a technical inspection and be formally registered following the procedures required by the RDW, the national vehicle authority. The vehicle must have a Dutch licence number within two weeks of arriving in the country. Processes differ depending on whether your car comes from an EU or non-EU country.

All imported vehicles must undergo a periodic technical inspection (APK) to ensure they meet Dutch road safety and environmental standards. The inspection covers brakes, suspension, tyres, and emissions. Vehicles from outside the EU often require more extensive checks to comply with regulations. Approved RDW garages will issue an inspection report once your car passes.

Read more:
Public Transport and Driving in the Netherlands
Banking, Money and Taxes in the Netherlands

Useful links

• Rijksdienst voor het Wegverkeer (RDW)