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Import Duties on Imports for Residents of Rijswijk

Discover import duties for Rijswijk residents: calculations, exemptions, and tips. Exempt up to €150, advice via Het Juridisch Loket Rijswijk. (118 characters)

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Import Duties on Imports for Residents of Rijswijk

Import duties on imports are customs duties levied by the Dutch customs authorities on goods from non-EU countries. For residents of Rijswijk shopping online on platforms like AliExpress or Wish, these rules play a major role. They protect the European market and generate revenue for the EU. In this article, we focus on import duties specifically for you in Rijswijk, explaining calculations, exemptions, and tips. This builds on our article about Import Duties and VAT on Imports.

What exactly are import duties?

Import duties are a tax based on the value of imported goods. They are charged as a percentage of the customs value and vary by product type. Unlike VAT, which applies across the board, import duties depend on the parcel's value and origin. For postal shipments up to €150, consumers in Rijswijk are often exempt from import duties, though VAT still applies.

Customs screens shipments on arrival. If duties are due, customs holds the package, incurring additional storage and handling fees in the Den Haag-Rijswijk region.

Legal basis for import duties

The framework for import duties is set out in the Union Customs Code (Regulation (EU) No 952/2013) and the Customs Act 1992. Rates are drawn from the Common Customs Tariff (CCT), linked to the HS code. Use the TARIC code on the Customs website for details. In Rijswijk, you can visit Het Juridisch Loket Rijswijk for guidance on these rules.

  • Article 71 Customs Act 1992: Establishes the customs value as the basis for calculation.
  • Regulation (EU) 2015/2447: Exemptions for low-value consignments.
  • Postal Consignment Regulation: Applies to shipments up to 30 kg.

Since 1 July 2021, IOSS has handled VAT on consumer imports, while import duties remain unchanged.

How are import duties calculated?

Customs value includes the product price (CIF: cost, insurance, freight) plus any royalties. Rates range from 0-17% based on the HS code. Calculation: Customs value × Rate % = Import duty.

Example for Rijswijk: You order shoes (€200, HS code 6403, 8%). Total with shipping €220. Import duty: €220 × 8% = €17.60. Plus VAT on the total (€220 + €17.60 × 21% ≈ €50).

Product categoryHS code exampleAverage rateCosts at €100 value
Clothing610912%€12
Electronics85170-14%€0-€14
Toys95030%€0
Shoes64038%€8

Always duties above €150; below €150 often exempt for postal shipments from non-EU countries.

Exemptions and exceptions

Not every import into Rijswijk triggers import duties:

  • Packages up to €150: no duties (VAT from €22).
  • Gifts up to €45: exempt.
  • Travel goods: exempt for personal use up to commercial quantities.
  • Trade agreements: reduced rates with the UK or Canada.

Practical examples from Rijswijk

  1. Order from China: Sneakers €120. No import duties (under €150), but VAT via IOSS or customs payment request.
  2. Gadget €300: 14% rate = €42 duty + €74 VAT. Extra €116; package held until payment.
  3. Multiple shipments: Customs may combine them; splitting to avoid thresholds doesn't always work.

Rights and obligations as a Rijswijk resident

Rights:

  • File an objection within 6 weeks (Article 12 Customs Act) at the District Court Rijswijk.
  • Request HS code and rate via the customs app.
  • Refund for incorrect levies.

Obligations:

  • Declare the value correctly.
  • Pay within 14 days.
  • File a declaration for business imports.

If in doubt: Het Juridisch Loket Rijswijk offers free advice.

Frequently asked questions

Always duties on imports from the US?

No, only above €150 or if >0% rate. Use the TARIC tool with HS code.

'Gift' label from seller?

Customs verifies; fraud leads to fines or criminal proceedings.

Refund import duties?

Yes, on export or destruction; submit request with proof to customs.

Imports from UK post-Brexit?

Yes, third country; often 0% due to agreement.

Tips for Rijswijk residents

Avoid surprises with import duties:

  • Customs tool: douane.nl/tarieven for simulations.
  • HS code check: Via Access2Markets or seller.
  • IOSS option: VAT paid upfront.
  • Insurance: For customs costs.
  • Advice: High volume? Consult a customs expert or Municipality of Rijswijk for referrals. See also VAT on Imports, Customs Inspections.

Expect 20-30% extra. Problems? Call Customs (088-1512522).

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