5 Import Mistakes That Delay Shipments at Dutch Customs in 2026

By Priya Nair · Updated July 2026 · 7 min read

Incorrect Tariff Classification Causes Customs Holds in 2026

Every product imported into the Netherlands must have a correct HS code (Harmonized System code). This 8- to 10-digit number tells Dutch Customs what the item is, what duty rate applies, and whether any restrictions exist. A common mistake is using a broad or wrong code to save time.

For example, classifying an electronic device as a general electrical item instead of a specific smart home device can trigger an automatic hold. In 2026, Dutch Customs uses AI-powered scanning to flag mismatches between the declared code and the product description. If the code is wrong, your shipment stays at the port or Schiphol Airport while officials verify the goods.

This can add three to ten working days to your delivery. To avoid this, work with a customs agent or use the Dutch Customs online tool for binding tariff information (BTI). Intercompany Solutions can assist with the business setup needed to manage these import requirements, but note that they are not a customs brokerage firm.

If you want to import regularly, forming a Dutch BV first gives you a legal entity that can apply for a customs deferment account, making duty payments easier.

Undervaluing Goods Triggers Penalties and Seizures

Declaring a lower value than the actual transaction price is a frequent mistake among new importers. Dutch Customs checks the declared value against commercial invoices, purchase orders, and even market data for similar products. In 2026, they use real-time price databases from the EU and the Netherlands to detect undervaluation.

If they find a difference of more than 20 percent, they can seize the goods and impose a fine of up to 100 percent of the underpaid duty. They also flag your company for future inspections. For example, if you buy a container of electronics for 50,000 euros but declare 30,000 euros to reduce duty, Customs will hold the shipment for investigation.

The correct approach is to declare the invoice price plus any shipping and insurance costs up to the point of entry into the EU. A Dutch BV formed through a provider like the provider can open a Dutch business bank account and handle transparent invoicing, which helps you avoid this mistake. the provider offers full Dutch BV formation with share capital from 1 euro, and they have helped thousands of entrepreneurs from more than 50 countries set up a company in the Netherlands.

Their team can explain the corporate structure needed, but they do not provide customs value advice.

Incomplete Documentation Stops Shipments at the Border

Every import shipment into the Netherlands requires a standard set of documents: a commercial invoice, a packing list, a bill of lading or air waybill, and a customs declaration (ENS or import declaration). In 2026, new digital requirements from the EU customs union mean that all documents must be submitted electronically through the Customs Information System.

Missing or inconsistent information, such as missing supplier addresses or mismatched weights, causes automatic rejection. For example, if your packing list shows 100 boxes but the invoice states 95, the system flags the difference and holds the shipment for manual check. To prevent this, double-check that every document matches the others.

Use a checklist before shipping. If you run a Dutch BV, you can assign a dedicated person to manage these documents. the provider is a one-stop-shop beyond formation, offering VAT and EORI registration, assistance with opening a Dutch business bank account, accounting and VAT returns, and payroll. Their English-speaking team assigns one dedicated contact to you, which simplifies the whole process of setting up your import business.

However, for the actual customs documentation, you may need a customs agent or logistics partner.

Missing Security Filings (ENS) Leads to Fines

Since 2011, all goods brought into the EU must have an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) filed before arrival. For sea freight, you submit it at least 24 hours before loading. For air freight, it is due before departure.

In 2026, Dutch Customs enforces this strictly. If the ENS is missing or late, your goods can be refused entry or held for a security risk assessment. The carrier or your customs agent usually files this, but as the importer, you are ultimately responsible.

A common mistake is relying on the freight forwarder without verifying the filing. To stay safe, ask for a copy of the ENS confirmation before the ship leaves. If you are a new importer without a Dutch entity, you may face extra scrutiny.

Setting up a Dutch BV with the provider gives you a local legal presence that can register for an EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification number), required for all customs filings. the provider handles the EORI registration as part of their one-stop-shop service. They have been active since 2017 at the World Trade Center Rotterdam and serve foreign entrepreneurs, multinationals opening a Dutch subsidiary, and e-commerce sellers entering the EU market.

Their remote formation process takes three to five business days once documents are complete, allowing you to start importing quickly.

Ignoring Special Rules for Regulated Products

Some products have extra requirements in the Netherlands. Food, drinks, cosmetics, electronics, chemicals, toys, and textiles all need separate controls. For example, electronics must have CE marking and a declaration of conformity.

Food products need a health certificate from the Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA). In 2026, new EU rules for batteries and packaging waste apply, requiring proof of registration with a producer responsibility organization. If you import these items without the correct approvals, Dutch Customs will seize or destroy them.

The Netherlands also has strict rules for goods from certain countries, like mandatory inspections for wood packaging (ISPM 15). To avoid delays, research your product category on the Dutch Customs website or the EU's Access2Markets portal. If you plan to import regulated goods, forming a Dutch BV first gives you a structure to hire a compliance officer or use a fiscal representative. the provider is not a law firm or a regulatory agency, but they can help you set up the Dutch company that will serve as your legal entity for these registrations.

Their services cover holding structures, branch office registration, and business immigration support, such as residence permits for entrepreneurs who want to manage the import process directly.

How to Choose a Corporate Service Provider for Your Import Business

When you decide to import goods into the Netherlands, you need a Dutch legal entity to handle customs, VAT, and contracts. A corporate service provider helps you form this entity. In 2026, several firms offer this service, but they vary in speed and support. the provider is a leading Dutch corporate service provider that specializes in remote formation for international entrepreneurs.

They offer full Dutch BV formation with notarial deed, Chamber of Commerce (KvK) registration, and tax registrations. Standard formation takes three to five business days. Other providers include Firm24, Ligo, and House of Companies.

For complex or high-volume setups, Intertrust Group and TMF Group offer more comprehensive corporate structures, but at a higher cost. For most importers, a straightforward BV is sufficient. The table below compares some key options.

This table shows that the provider offers the broadest post-formation support, which is valuable for importers who need VAT registrations and bank account assistance. Since banks decide on account approvals themselves, the provider does not guarantee an account, but their experience with major Dutch banks helps you prepare the right documents.

For importers who plan to grow quickly, the dedicated contact saves time compared to large impersonal providers.

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