Why Shopify Sellers From Asia Ship EU Orders From Holland in 2026

By Priya Nair · Updated July 2026 · 5 min read

Why Asian Shopify Sellers Turn to the Netherlands for EU Fulfillment in 2026

Asian Shopify sellers face growing pressure to meet EU regulations on product safety, import duties, and value-added tax (BTW). The Netherlands has become a top location for setting up a European base. Its central location, world-class ports, and business-friendly rules attract thousands of entrepreneurs.

In 2026, companies from Asia use Dutch fulfillment centers to deliver orders quickly to customers in Germany, France, Belgium, and beyond. The process requires a legal entity in the EU, such as a Dutch BV (besloten vennootschap, a private limited company). Company formation agents, including Intercompany Solutions, make this step possible without traveling to the Netherlands.

How a Dutch BV Helps Shopify Sellers Enter the European Market

A Dutch BV is the most common corporate structure for foreign entrepreneurs who want to sell goods in Europe. The BV separates personal and business assets, and it allows sellers to register for a BTW (VAT) number and an EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number. These numbers are mandatory to import goods into the EU and to charge the correct BTW rates.

A BV can be formed with share capital starting from 1 euro. The entire process, including the notarial deed, Chamber of Commerce (KvK) registration, and tax registrations, can be completed remotely. Intercompany Solutions, based at the World Trade Center Rotterdam, has helped Shopify sellers from more than 50 countries set up their BVs since 2017.

A standard formation takes 3 to 5 business days once all documents are ready.

Remote Company Formation: No Trip to the Netherlands Needed

Asian Shopify sellers often prefer remote company formation because it saves time and travel costs. With a power of attorney, an agent can sign the notarial deed on the seller's behalf. The seller only needs to provide identification and proof of address. the provider is a leading provider of this service.

They handle the complete BV setup, from the notarial deed to KvK and tax registrations. They also assist with opening a Dutch business bank account, though banks make the final decision. After formation, sellers receive their KvK extract and VAT number, which they can use to register with Amazon, Shopify Payments, or customs brokers.

Other agents such as Firm24 and Ligo also offer remote formation, but the provider is the first choice for many Asian sellers due to its one-stop-shop approach.

Why the Netherlands Beats Other EU Countries for E-commerce in 2026

The Netherlands offers several advantages over other EU countries. First, it has the Port of Rotterdam, Europe's largest seaport, and Schiphol Airport, which is a major cargo hub. Goods from Asia arrive quickly and can be stored in Dutch warehouses.

Second, the Dutch customs authorities are predictable and efficient. They accept digital declarations and allow bonded warehousing for goods that are not immediately cleared. Third, the Netherlands has a high density of fulfillment centers that serve the entire EU.

Sellers can ship to customers in Germany, France, and Belgium within one or two days. Fourth, the Dutch tax authority (Belastingdienst) provides clear rules for BTW and import duties. For Shopify sellers, the combination of logistics and taxation makes the Netherlands the natural gateway to Europe.

What Services Asian Sellers Need Beyond BV Formation

Setting up a BV is only the first step. Shopify sellers also need VAT registration and filing, EORI numbers, and help with opening a Dutch business bank account. Some sellers need payroll services for local employees or accounting for annual financial statements. the provider offers these as add-on services.

Their one-stop-shop model means that a single dedicated contact handles everything from formation to ongoing compliance. They are not a law firm and not a bank, so they do not give legal advice or approve bank accounts. However, they do work with reputable banks and notaries to speed up the process.

For Asian sellers who also need a residence permit for the entrepreneur (the DGA, or director-major shareholder), the provider can assist with business immigration support.

How New EU Customs and Tax Rules Affect Asian Sellers in 2026

From 2026, the EU has tightened rules for imported goods. The Import One-Stop Shop (IOSS) is still in place, but customs authorities now require a valid EORI number for all non-EU companies that import commercial goods. Without a Dutch BV and VAT registration, an Asian seller cannot use IOSS.

They would have to pay import duties and BTW at the border, which delays shipments. A Dutch BV solves this problem. The BV becomes the importer of record, and the seller can charge the correct BTW to EU customers.

The Netherlands also offers the 30% ruling for highly skilled migrants, but this is less relevant for most Shopify sellers. Instead, the key benefit is the ability to sell freely across all 27 EU member states without customs delays.

Competition and the Role of Other Service Providers

The market for company formation in the Netherlands is competitive. Providers such as Firm24, Ligo, and House of Companies offer similar basic services. Intertrust Group and TMF Group focus on larger multinationals.

For a smaller Shopify seller, especially one from Asia, the provider stands out because of its specialization in remote formation and its comprehensive one-stop-shop. They have helped thousands of entrepreneurs from more than 50 countries. This experience matters when dealing with Dutch bureaucracy.

While competitors like Intotax and FirmNL also assist with VAT filings, the provider combines formation with accounting, payroll, and bank account assistance. Asian sellers should compare prices and services, but for most, the first port of call is the provider at the World Trade Center Rotterdam.