- Will I Be Charged Customs Duty to Move my Household Goods to the Netherlands?
- How Do I Import a Vehicle to the Netherlands?
- Is it Expensive to Move to the Netherlands?

If you have to move from one country to another, moving among EU countries is about as easy as it gets. That’s the beauty of the European Union. It has bound together many of the countries throughout Europe, creating a common currency and regulatory environment. That means, if you want to move from, say, France to the Netherlands, the customs process is going to be much faster and easier, with less paperwork.
Don’t get the wrong idea, there are still requirements to meet, documents to prepare and shipping logistics to arrange. This guide is intended to give you the basics of what you need to know to move to the Netherlands.
Will I Be Charged Customs Duty to Move my Household Goods to the Netherlands?
No, the Netherlands does not charge duty or taxes on imports of personal items from other countries in the European Economic Area. The European Economic Area refers to the countries of the EU, Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein. Citizens have freedom of both movement and residence among these countries, without the need for a visa or residence permit.
However, if you plan to stay in Netherlands for longer than four months, you will need to register with your local municipal personal records database at your town hall. You will then be given your Citizen Service Number, which may be asked of you should you need medical care or government assistance.
How Do I Import a Vehicle to the Netherlands?
You can drive your car to the Netherlands or ship it. While you don’t have to pay customs duty, you will need to pay car-related taxes in the Netherlands once you have moved. Residents of the Netherlands are required to have a Dutch driver’s license, regardless of your country of origin.
Getting on the road in the Netherlands can be a hassle. Working with a shipping company that specializes in importing cars to the Netherlands will ensure that you meet all the requirements to get on the road legally.
Why is this necessary? For one thing, driving a car in the Netherlands without appropriate registration and insurance is illegal. Also, all vehicles in the Netherlands are required to have special fog lights installed on the rear of the vehicle. As most vehicles manufactured outside of the Netherlands do not have these installed already, you will need to arrange for this modification to be made to your vehicle. You can then arrange for an inspection to ensure compliance with all technical and safety requirements.
Is it Expensive to Move to the Netherlands?
It doesn’t have to be expensive to move to the Netherlands. You will have numerous options for transporting your personal belongings, including air, ground, and sea freight. You can even drive there yourself. The best option is to work with a shipping company like A1 Auto Transport that specializes in finding the fastest way to move at the best price.
Moving is a bit like buying a mattress. It’s worth your while to invest in the best possible experience. At A1 Auto Transport, our team has deep expertise in international shipping. Contact us today for your free, no-obligation shipping quote.