Import from the Netherlands is not difficult. The Netherlands is the 7th largest export economy in the world, and as the UK’s maritime neighbour, it is no surprise that the UK is one of the top importers of Dutch goods. As a member of the EU, and thanks to its close proximity to the UK, exporting to The Netherlands is easy and cost-effective process. However, there are some points to keep in mind.
Transport from The Netherlands to the UK
There are various options for sending goods from The Netherlands to the UK. More often than not, road freight will be the most cost-effective and time efficient transport mode for your goods. This will usually mean that your goods are transported via truck or, if the import is a smaller size, by van.
The means of road freight is largely determined by the size of your shipment. If your shipment is larger than 8-10 cubic metres, it will take up most the room in the truck. Therefore, the carrier that will deliver the goods to your address will likely go to your supplier’s pickup address to pick up the goods.
For small parcel shipments, your goods will often be taken to distribution centres where they will be loaded and unloaded with other goods onto a truck and then delivered to your address by van.
Shipping may be an option if your import is particularly large, though the costs of loading and unloading the goods should be considered.
The benefit of using air freight to receive goods from The Netherlands is that it is potentially the fastest option. However, air freight is the more expensive option compared to road freight.
Tax
As The Netherlands is a member of the EU, there are generally no duty costs to be paid on imports. Items within the EU are free to circulate between countries without import duty costs.
Ensure that you have a commodity code for your goods to determine whether there are any taxes or regulations specific to your import.
It is necessary to pay VAT on goods imported into the UK. The current VAT rate is 20%. Make sure that you have not already paid VAT on the goods at the country of origin, as then you will be paying the tax twice.
There are different tax rules that may apply to the import of alcohol or tobacco into the UK. Check the UK government website for more information on tax and duty.
Import from The Netherlands with Transporteca
Transporteca has a large network of trucking companies that have very good public transport from The Netherlands to the UK. The best option for you depends on your specific needs.
On the portal you can compare rates and transit times for freight from The Netherlands, and save time and money by ordering online.