You are moving to the Netherlands from an EU country

Are you moving to the Netherlands from another EU country? If so, you do not need to file a customs declaration for your removal goods or personal effects. This is because there is free movement of goods within the European Union (EU).

Please note!

You often also need to arrange a number of things in the country of departure for exporting your household effects. For this reason, check in good time with the authorities in the country of departure or with your removal company.

Special rules

  • excise goods
    Up to a certain quantity, you do not have to pay excise duty on excisable goods alcohol or tobacco products that you bring yourself from an EU Member State as a private individual for your own use. Check the rules and regulations on 'Paying excise duty if you enter the Netherlands from another EU country'
  • cars and motorcycles
    You can apply for an exemption from private vehicles and motorcycle tax (bpm) using the following form 'Vrijstelling bpm - Vrijstelling bpm bij verhuizing' (application form for a licence granting exemption from bpm upon moving within the EU, only available in Dutch).
  • specific products and domestic animals (pets):
    • dogs and cats
    • counterfeit articles
    • endangered species
    • animal products
    • weapons and ammunition
    • narcotics
    • cultural goods (such as arts and antiques)

More information

Go to the section restricted or prohibited to import or export on this website for the applicable rules.

See what you are not permitted to include in your household effects.

If you have any specific questions about cars and motorcycles, please call the Tax Information Line Cars.

For all other questions, call the Customs Information Line.

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