Removals to the Netherlands after Brexit

Since the UK left the EU it's a little more complicated to move your household goods to the Netherlands, which makes it more important than ever to use an experienced European Removals company.

Before Brexit it was fairly simple to move household goods from the UK to mainland Europe. Goods moved freely within the EU and so there were no customs processes to follow for moves from the UK to the Netherlands. You didn't need any special paperwork, usually there were no duties or tax applicable and there weren't restrictions on what items you could take with you. 

Now that the UK has left the EU, household goods removals from the UK into EU countries like the Netherlands must meet the same import regulations as moves from the rest of the world. European Removal Companies need to provide additional documentation and follow new customs procedures to move their customers' belongings to the Netherlands. 

Can I still move my household goods to the Netherlands after BREXIT?

Yes! It is still completely possible to move your household goods with you when you move to the Netherlands. A good removal company will have put systems in place and trained their staff so that everything still runs smoothly. 

At Bournes, we invested heavily in learning about the new requirements, setting up and testing the new systems for customs processes, training our team and providing guidance to our customers. This means we have already completed many successful removals to the Netherlands since the new processes are in place. 

Do I need a removal company to move to the Netherlands?

In our opinion hiring a professional removal company is more important than ever for house removals to the Netherlands.

The complexity of the processes required to properly import your belongings into the Netherlands means that this would be incredibly challenging for a private individual or inexperienced company to complete. If you get this wrong you could face large bills for duties and taxes or other penalties in future. 

What will my removal company need to do to move me to the Netherlands?

When you work with a professional European Removals company you should expect them to: 

• Have the right permits - including a valid EORI number 
• Register on the required systems to submit applications for accessing the Kent Ports / Tunnel AND to make customs declarations and receive approvals. 
• Be correctly insured and carrying the right documents - personal, shipment and vehicle documents - to travel and drive in the Netherlands.
• Submit the correct customs documents on your behalf for export from the UK and import into the Netherlands. 
• Advise you on duties and taxes and if they may be applicable for your move based on your individual circumstances.
• Advise you on restricted and prohibited items that should not be included in your move.
• Understand and plan schedules to allow for the additional time now required to clear customs. 

What paperwork do I need to move my household goods to the Netherlands after BREXIT?

Your removal company should advise you on the documents you need to provide and how to complete any forms. They should check that these are all in place in plenty of time to avoid delays or issues with your move. 

At the date of publishing this article the documents you need to provide are:

• Copy of your passport
• Valued inventory list
• Copy of registration from town/city hall where the shipper will live (noting the country shipper is moving from).
  o If this is not available you may alternatively submit proof of deregistration from the origin country alongside a copy of work contract/employer declaration showing the period of working for them abroad and confirming you will now be working for them in the Netherlands as from (date) OR a copy of your rental/purchase agreement for residence in the Netherlands (not older than 6 months).

There are additional documents required by customs that your removal company will complete. 

At Bournes we provide a dedicated European Move Manager. When you book they will let you know the documents you will need and provide you blank copies of any forms you will need to fill out. They will guide and advise you every step of the way to make sure everything runs smoothly.

Are duties and taxes applicable for a move to the Netherlands after BREXIT?

Typically there are no duties and taxes to import household goods to the Netherlands when you are moving your main residence, but this depends on meeting certain criteria like what you are taking and your individual circumstances.

At the date of publishing this article duty-free entry is granted providing that:

• You lived outside the European Union for at least 12 months prior to leaving the
  country of departure and you will be living in the Netherlands.
• You are transporting household goods belonging to your residence.
• You have owned and used your personal belongings for at least 6 month prior to your removal to the Netherlands.
• You are importing your personal belongings within 12 months after your
  date of arrival in the Netherlands.
• You will be using your personal belongings again and will not lend or
  rent them out, pawn or sell them for a period of 12 months after customs
  cleared your personal belongings to enter the Netherlands.

Duties and taxes are applicable in some other cases, for example for second homes, commercial businesses or tobacco and alcohol. Visit the FIDI Customs Guide for the Netherlands to find out about the application of duties and taxes for specific items or circumstances. 

Is Covid-19 affecting removals to the Netherlands?

Providing proper planning is in place the Covid-19 pandemic shouldn't be having a bit impact on your move. This includes making sure the removal company knows what is required regarding driver testing and travel restrictions. 

You will need to have all your documents in place before a delivery date can be confirmed and your shipment leaves the UK to avoid further charges and delays on arrival. 

Want to know more?

To find out more, get answers to your specific questions or to get a quote please just get in touch. Our team will be happy to talk you through the process for your individual situation.