Prohibited Product Awareness for a Smooth Transition at Dutch Customs
In international shipping, the question 'will my items be stuck at customs?' is more critical than 'did my items go?'. Every kind of shipment from Turkey to Holland (Netherlands) is subject to European Union (EU) customs acquis. As Han Bros Cargo, we observe that 80% of the delays experienced at Dutch customs are caused by undeclared or restricted products. Therefore, for both the security of your shipment and not hindering the legal processes, it is vital that you are proficient in the question 'which items are prohibited for shipping to Holland?'. Putting a prohibited product inside the truck can lead to sealing not only that product but the whole truck at customs and serious administrative fines.
Prohibited and Restricted Substances According to Categories
Products that should definitely not be in shipments to Holland (especially in the personal effects and cargo category) are as follows:
- Dangerous Goods: Flammable liquids (perfume, nail polish, thinner), explosives (fireworks, sparklers), pressurized containers (deodorant, spray paint), and toxic chemicals.
- Food and Agricultural Products: Fresh fruits and vegetables, meat and dairy products (sausage, cheese, etc. are restricted even if vacuumed), plant seeds and soil.
- Medicine and Health Products: Medicines that are not non-prescription and in their original box, narcotic substances. (A doctor's prescription is required for personal use).
- Restricted Products: Alcohol and tobacco products (subject to tax over a certain limit), works of cultural heritage nature, and large amounts of cash (over 10,000 Euro must be declared).
- Weapons and Ammunition: Firearms, cutting tools (hunting knives, etc.) and pepper sprays for defense purposes are prohibited according to Dutch laws.
Han Bros Cargo Solutions for Safe Shipment
We minimize risks before even leaving Turkey by performing a 'prohibited substance check' (Pre-Screening) during the packaging stage of your items. Our expert teams clarify the content of your boxes with Dutch and English declarations that customs officers will understand. If there is a suspicious substance in your shipment, we inform you and offer alternative solutions. Remember, the Dutch customs is a digitalized institution that carries out extremely strict inspections. Avoiding correct declaration and restricted product information prevents you from experiencing stress at the customs gates on the first day of your new life. We don't just carry your load, we also create a legal protection shield.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can vacuumed cheese and olives be sent to Holland?
As a general rule, the entry of animal foods (sausage, cheese) into the EU is prohibited. Olives are allowed in limited amounts as they are herbal, but consult us for risk analysis. We can pack and carry perfumes in their original bottles and in reasonable (personal use) quantities within the scope of personal effects. It is mandatory that the medicine is in its original box, an English doctor's report/prescription and the identity information of the patient are inside the box. The item is confiscated, destroyed, and fines starting from 1,000 Euros can be imposed on the sender/recipient according to the nature of the shipment. Alcohol and tobacco are restricted in personal effects moves; it is recommended to take them with you or obtain them from local markets as they will enter the commercial taxation regime. Carry trust, not risk. Trust Han Bros Cargo guidance for prohibited substance control!Can you carry my personal perfumes?
What should I do to send medicine to Holland?
What happens if a prohibited product is caught at customs?
Can I carry an excessive amount of tobacco/alcohol?
