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Import Duties and VAT for Residents of Zoetermeer

Discover how import duties and VAT can increase the cost of your international online orders as a Zoetermeer resident. Get tips and local assistance from the Zoetermeer Legal Helpdesk.

2 min leestijd

As a resident of Zoetermeer, you frequently shop online from abroad, but shipments from outside the EU may incur import duties and VAT. These additional costs can significantly increase your purchase price and lead to unexpected expenses.

When Do Import Duties Apply in Zoetermeer?

For packages shipped from non-EU countries to Zoetermeer, the following rules apply:

  • VAT (21%) is always mandatory and calculated on the full value, including shipping costs
  • Import duties apply if the value exceeds €150
  • The carrier collects these fees upon delivery to your Zoetermeer address

What Are the Exact Costs?

The total additional costs for Zoetermeer residents include:

  • VAT: 21% on the full value, including shipping
  • Import duties: ranging from 0% to 17%, depending on the product type
  • Additional handling fees by the courier: typically €10 to €20

IOSS Scheme Since 2021

Many international online retailers outside the EU participate in the IOSS system. In such cases, VAT is paid upfront during checkout, ensuring no additional charges upon delivery in Zoetermeer.

Avoid Surprises at Delivery

Online retailers must inform you in advance about potential import duties and VAT. If they fail to do so, as a Zoetermeer resident, you may refuse payment and request a return of the package. For disputes, seek advice from the Zoetermeer Legal Helpdesk.

Orders from the UK After Brexit

Since Brexit, shipments from the United Kingdom are treated as imports to the Netherlands—including Zoetermeer—meaning import duties and VAT may apply to your purchases.

Practical Tips for Zoetermeer Residents

  • Prefer EU-based online stores to avoid extra costs
  • Check if the seller is registered with IOSS for smooth processing
  • Calculate the total price—including potential fees—using the Customs Authority’s tool
  • For customs-related questions or disputes, contact the Zoetermeer Legal Helpdesk or the Zoetermeer District Court

Veelgestelde vragen

Wat is mijn retourrecht?

Bij online aankopen heb je 14 dagen retourrecht zonder opgaaf van reden, tenzij de wettelijke uitzonderingen gelden.

Hoe lang geldt de wettelijke garantie?

Goederen moeten minimaal 2 jaar meewerken. Defecten die binnen 6 maanden ontstaan worden verondersteld al aanwezig te zijn.

Kan ik rente eisen over schulden?

Ja, je kunt wettelijke rente eisen (momenteel ongeveer 8% per jaar) over het openstaande bedrag.

Wat kan ik doen tegen oneerlijke handelspraktijken?

Je kunt klacht indienen bij de consumentenbond, de overheid of naar de rechter gaan.

Wat is een kredietovereenkomst?

Een kredietovereenkomst regelt hoe je geld leent, wat de rente is, en hoe je dit terugbetaalt.