Shipping Prequel Gleanser from the US vs. getting your package seized in the Netherlands

March 05, 2026

The Prequel Gleanser obsession in 2026

It is 2026, and the "skinimalism" movement has completely taken over our bathroom cabinets. If you have been keeping up with skincare trends on social media, you have likely seen everyone raving about the Prequel Gleanser. This product has become a viral sensation, specifically for its massive 50% glycerin content. While it is perfect for the humid summers and chilly winters in Europe, there is one major problem: Prequel remains a US-exclusive brand. For those of us trying to ship to Netherlands, it can feel like a lost cause when the checkout page says they don't deliver to your address.

Shipping Prequel Gleanser from the US vs. getting your package seized in the Netherlands
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Why this glycerin cleanser is different

Most cleansers use water as their primary ingredient, but Prequel flipped the script. By using a high concentration of glycerin, it repairs the skin barrier while you wash. It is non-comedogenic, making it a dream for people who struggle with clogged pores but still want that hydrated, dewy look. However, trying to find this in a local Dutch drugstore is impossible. You have to look toward the US market to get the authentic formula.

Shipping Prequel Gleanser to the Netherlands

Since the brand doesn't offer direct international shipping to Europe, you need a reliable way to get it across the Atlantic. Using a freight forwarder is the most common workaround. You essentially get a tax-free US address to send your packages to, and then they are bundled and sent to your doorstep in the Netherlands. Standard international shipping vs. using a tax-free US address often means the difference between a huge bill and a smart deal.

Estimated Shipping Specs

Before you hit the buy button, it is helpful to know what you are dealing with in terms of weight and size. The Gleanser comes in a generous 500ml (16.9 oz) bottle, which is quite heavy for a single skincare product. To help you plan, you can use a shipping calculator to get a precise quote, but here are the general estimates:

  • Box Weight: Approximately 0.7 kg (1.5 lbs) per bottle including the shipping box and padding.
  • Box Dimensions: Usually a small box (approx. 22cm x 10cm x 10cm).
  • Volumetric Warning: Since the item is relatively dense and the bottle is liquid-heavy, volumetric weight is rarely an issue for a single bottle. However, if you are buying a large haul of lightweight items like cotton pads or sponges alongside it, keep an eye on the box size.
  • Battery Check: This item does not contain any lithium batteries or electronic components, so it is safe for standard air freight without extra "dangerous goods" fees.

US Credit Card Blocks vs. BuyForMe

One of the biggest hurdles Dutch shoppers face is the "International Credit Card Block." Many US beauty brands and major retailers like Sephora or Nike have strict security filters. If they see a credit card issued by a Dutch bank or a shipping address that looks like a warehouse, they might cancel your order immediately. This is incredibly frustrating when you have been waiting for a restock.

This is where the BuyForMe service comes into play. Instead of you struggling with a declined card, comGateway's team uses a US-based payment method to purchase the item for you. This proxy shopping method is the safest way to ensure your order is confirmed and doesn't get flagged by the store's fraud system. It essentially removes the barrier between you and US-only inventory.

Dealing with Dutch Customs and VAT

When your package arrives in the Netherlands, it will pass through customs. It is vital to stay informed about import duties and the 21% VAT that applies to goods coming from outside the EU. Ignoring these costs can lead to your package being held at the depot or even returned to the sender. Check our guide on customs tax to see how to prepay or estimate these costs so there are no surprises when the courier rings your doorbell.

Getting started with your US-to-Netherlands order

Ready to finally try the Prequel Gleanser? The process is simpler than it looks. First, you shop US stores using your provided address. Once the package arrives at the warehouse, you can choose your preferred shipping speed. For a detailed step-by-step guide, visit our "How it Works" page to see how we handle everything from inspection to final delivery. By using an assisted purchase, you can bypass the technical glitches and focus on getting your skin the glycerin it deserves in 2026.

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