Understand Dutch Customs Before You Ship
Shopping from the United States offers access to brands and prices that are often unavailable in Europe. However, for residents of the Netherlands, the excitement of a new purchase can quickly be dampened by unexpected invoices from customs. As we navigate the shipping landscape in 2026, it is more important than ever to understand the specific tax and duty regulations enforced by the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration (Belastingdienst).
Before you click the checkout button, using a reliable package forwarder like comGateway can help you manage your shipments, but you still need to be aware of the costs that await you at the border.
The End of VAT De Minimis
One of the most critical things to remember in 2026 is that the European Union no longer observes a minimum threshold for Value Added Tax (VAT). In the Netherlands, this is known as BTW. Unlike years past where small packages were exempt, every single item imported from the USA to the Netherlands is subject to VAT, regardless of its value.
- Standard VAT Rate: 21% for most consumer goods like electronics, clothing, and luxury items.
- Reduced VAT Rate: 9% for specific items such as books and certain food products.
When you shipping from USA, the VAT is calculated based on the total value of the goods, the shipping costs, and any insurance paid. This is why it is vital to estimate shipping costs to Netherlands accurately before finalizing your order.
Customs Duty Thresholds in 2026
While VAT applies to everything, customs duties have a specific threshold. In 2026, the de minimis threshold for customs duty remains at €150. Here is how it breaks down:
| Consignment Value | VAT (BTW) Applicable | Customs Duty Applicable |
|---|---|---|
| €0 - €150 | Yes (21%) | No |
| Over €150 | Yes (21%) | Yes (Varies by product) |
If your package is valued over €150, the duty rate depends on the category of the item. For example, many electronic devices like smartphones and laptops often have a 0% duty rate, whereas clothing and textiles can be taxed as high as 12%. To find specific codes for your items, you can check our FAQ for links to international tariff databases.
Handling and Clearance Fees
Beyond the government taxes, carriers such as PostNL, DHL, or FedEx charge a handling fee for processing your customs declaration. These fees typically range from €10 to €17 per package. If you are shipping multiple small items separately, these fees can add up quickly. Consolidating your packages into one shipment through a service like comGateway can significantly reduce these per-package handling charges.
Example Calculation
Imagine you are purchasing a pair of designer sneakers from a US retailer for €200, with €30 for international shipping.
- Customs Value: €230 (Goods + Shipping).
- Import Duty: Approximately 12% of €230 = €27.60.
- VAT (21%): Calculated on €230 + €27.60 = €54.10.
- Total Extra Cost: €81.70 + carrier handling fee.
Always remember to Get a Quote for your shipping logistics to ensure you have the full picture of your investment.
Prohibited and Restricted Items
Before shipping, ensure your items are allowed in the Netherlands. The Dutch authorities are particularly strict regarding supplements, certain cosmetics, and items containing endangered species materials. For a full list of what you can and cannot ship, please support center or common questions page to avoid having your items seized or returned at your expense.
Final Checklist Before Action
Before you ship your next US haul to the Netherlands in 2026, run through this quick checklist: Is the item value over €150? Have I factored in the 21% VAT? Have I checked if the item is restricted? Taking five minutes to verify these details now will save you weeks of headaches and unexpected costs later.
