Export to Netherlands - Fedex

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Netherlands Country Profile

* Country Information
* Trade Group Member
* General Import Clearance Information
* Netherlands Import Prohibitions
* General Import Restrictions
* Netherlands Import Restrictions
* Special Import Provisions
o Personal Effects
o Samples
o Gifts
* Standards
* General Export Clearance Information
* Netherlands Export Prohibitions
* General Export Restrictions
* Netherlands Export Restrictions
* Regulatory Contact Information

Country Information
Capital: Amsterdam
Population: 16,570,613 (July 2007 est.)
Language: Dutch
Weights and Measures: Metric
Currency: The Euro
Time Zone Operates on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
Daylight Savings Time is observed April through October (plus 1 hour).
Netherlands GMT +1 (Central European Time - CET)



Trade Group Member

As a European Union Member, the free movement of goods between Member States is allowed. The current members are: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, United Kingdom , Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden and Spain. EU members form a customs union that calls for free trade and the absence of customs duties and quotas on trade among members.

For further information on the European Union consult their website, http://www.europa.eu.int/


African Caribbean and Pacific States (ACP) provides duty-free/reduced rates of duty for qualifying products originating in member countries.

Baltic Republic, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania provide duty-free/reduced rates of duty for qualifying products originating in member countries..

Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, Serbia Montenegro (BCM) provide duty-free/reduced rates of duty for qualifying products originating in member countries.

Benelux Belgium, Netherlands and Luxembourg Economic Union.

Central and Southern American Countries (CAC) receiving special coverage for agricultural products provide duty-free/reduced rates of duty for qualifying products.

The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) provides for the seizure of shipments prohibited under this agreement and the assessment of fines.

European Economic Association (EEA) provides duty-free/reduced rates of duty for qualifying products originating in the following countries: Norway, Liechtenstein, and Iceland.

European Free Trade Association (EFTA) provides duty-free/reduced rates of duty for qualifying products originating in the following countries: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.

European Monetary Union (EMU)

Euratom - An agreement since 1957 amongst members regarding Nuclear Energy.

The General Systems of Preference (GSP) provides duty-free/reduced rates of duty for qualifying products originating in member countries.

The Least Developed Countries (LDDC) provides duty-free/reduced rates of duty for qualifying products originating in member countries.

Machrak provides duty-free/reduced rates of duty for qualifying products originating in Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria.

Magreb provides duty-free/reduced rates of duty for qualifying products originating in Tunisia, Morocco, and Algeria.

Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) - The Netherlands joined in 1990 in order to halt the proliferation of ballistic rockets.

Montreal Protocol - International convention regarding the control of certain regulated substances and reducing the use of goods that have an ozone depleting affect, such as CFC's.

EU overseas countries provide duty-free/reduced rates of duty for qualifying products originating in Anguilla, Aruba, British Indian Ocean Territory, French Polynesia, Mayotte, Montserrat, Netherlands Antilles, New Caledonia, Pitcairn, Saint Helena, Saint-Pierre and Miquelon , Turks and Caicos Islands, Wallis and Futuna Islands.

The Wassenaar agreement is a replacement of the COCOM and has been active since 1996. It tries to secure international safety and stability by trying to control dual-use and military goods.

World Trade Organization (WTO)




General Import Clearance Information

Clearance Process
The broker performing the clearance generally completes customs clearance electronically. Entry information is sent to the central customs computer. There are several types used for clearance in the Netherlands. The specific entry requirement is based on the shipment value, approved use, commodity type, and licensing or other controls as well as the reason for importation.

General Import Entry Types

* High value clearance (Duty / VAT paid if applicable)
* Low Value clearance (Exemption Duty / VAT requested)
* T1 (Transfer cargo not cleared to bonded warehouse)
* Simplified procedure (Licensed consignee will perform clearance themselves)
* Consignee has to provide clearance documents themselves (NATO 302 form, D39 Embassy goods etc.)
* CARNET Shipments: FedEx does not handle Carnets shipments under its FedEx Express International Priority Services

When entry information is sent to the central customs computer, the computer will process the input data and send back a response to the agent assigning the shipment a color code. The color code is important as it determines how long it will take for the shipment to clear. The three possible color codes are white, green or red. Shipments selected red will require formal examination of the documentation by a customs officer prior to release being granted. Additionally, a physical examination of the contents of the shipment may also be required. White and green is an approval for the release of goods. The difference between white and green is only of importance for the clearance agent himself.
(Exception: COD shipments selected green or red cannot be released until changed by customs to white).

The following is a general guide to when each entry type may be used:

Low value imports and documents valued up to 22 Euro except for commodities subject to excise duty such as tobacco products, commodities having an alcohol or spirit content, hydrocarbon oils, etc. or commodities for which special regulations apply as prohibited items, medicines, CITES, phytosanitary, etc. or goods where low value is stated but do not represent a fair market value.

High value goods valued from 22 Euro upwards. Note: High value shipments, which need to be cleared temporarily into the Netherlands, will be handed through another broker other than FedEx for further handling unless the consignee has an ongoing license for temporary import. Temporary import and reason for import should be stated on the invoice. If the costs for temporary clearance are higher than duties and vat levied, FedEx will clear the shipment with payment of duties and vat.

Returned goods. Goods returned to the Netherlands after exhibition, repair etc. may be cleared without payment of duties and VAT. The Air Waybill and invoice should state clearly that the shipment is returned after exhibition, repair etc. The consignee will be contacted, as the original export documentation is needed for clearance. Delays are possible. The invoice should state serial numbers, model numbers, etc. in order that identification of the goods that were previously exported can be completed without physically examining the goods.

T1 shipments/Transit goods are shipments that need to be transferred to a bonded warehouse without having been cleared (i.e. no payment of duty and vat). Those shipments can only be transferred to a bonded warehouse if the consignee has notified the broker that they have a bonded warehouse and the consignee has sent a copy of their bonded warehouse license to the broker. Some goods cannot be transported with a T1 (e.g. Excise goods, etc.).

Special clearance process for licensed consignees. A few licensed consignees can use a simplified procedure. It enables them to receive the goods quickly without any customs delays. The consignee himself completes clearance.

Document Requirements
Bill of Lading/Air Waybill
A bill of lading or Airway bill is always required and should bear the name of the party to be notified. A bill of lading/air waybill customarily shows the name of the shipper, the name and address of the consignee, port of destination, description of goods, the listing of the freight and other charges, the number of bills of lading in the full set, and the date and the signature of the carrier's officia acknowledging receipt on board of the goods for shipment. The information should correspond with that shown on the invoice and the packages.

Certificates of Origin
Certificates of Origin are required for a small number of goods such as textile products. Exceptions include mutilated samples, used personal effects or gifts with a fair market value less than 300 Euro. The need for a certificate of origin should be ascertained directly from the importer or the appropriate customs authority. A certificate of origin may also be stipulated in letter of credit terms or be requested by the importer. When required, two copies are necessary on a general form. Customs authorities also accept certificates issued by authorized local chambers of commerce or boards of trade.

Commercial Invoices
Invoices are required for all shipments. Invoices should show freight, insurance, value of the goods, name of consignee, correct address, phone- and/or fax number, a clear description of the goods, (if possible the harmonized code), Incoterm. In case of returned goods, a statement that this concerns return after (fill in reason) and serial numbers and model numbers. In the case of goods for temporary import, a statement should be included that this concerns temporary import (fill in a reason), and serial numbers and model numbers should also be included.

Dangerous Goods Certification
Some goods will, in addition to the standard documentation noted above, require DG certification. IE: Chemicals, etc.

VI1
This document is needed for wine; grape juice must be in shipments of a quantity of more than 60 liters.

Phytosanitary
Sanitary certificates from the appropriate agencies in the exporting country are required for the import of plants and plant products, as well as animals and animal products, and wood.

Preferential Agreement Documentation
These are certificates that certify the origin of the manufacturing country. In some cases this form will entitle the importer to an exemption or reduced rate of duty. These certificates are commodity specific as well as country specific and can only be accepted and honored for goods that meet all criteria as outlined by the preference agreements in force.

Licenses
In some cases licenses are needed prior to import, this is commodity and/or country specific. (E.g. steel license, textile license, precursor license etc.)

All documents presented for use in customs clearance processing should be prepared in English, to avoid delays and expedite clearance processing.

Printed Matter
Printed matter in a small quantity (FedEx envelope) needs an Air Waybill only. Printed matter given away for free during exhibitions, tradeshows, congress, etc. can be imported in larger quantities but an Air Waybill and commercial invoice will be needed. A specific description of the goods should be provided on the invoice. Additionally, the description should state that the contents are printed matter which is being given away for free and the name and address of the convention, trade show, congress etc. The printed matter should not exceed 20 kg per shipment.

Goods Consigned for Exhibition/Tradeshow/Congress
Small shipments of goods that will be used/consumed during a congress, exhibition, etc. may be imported Duty/VAT free if it contains a reasonable quantity of goods needed for building up the stand. For instance, some printed matter, office materials, free items in small quantities can be imported and entered duty and VAT free. The commercial invoice should state that the shipment contains exhibition goods to be given away and should specify the contents and mention the name and address of the convention. Some congress centers in the Netherlands have their own clearance facilities. In which case FedEx might transport the goods not cleared to the congress center for further handling. For additional information regarding T1, please see "Import Clearance Process" in this profile.
Large items (e.g. complete stands with typically of a high value) do not qualify for this exemption and will need to be imported temporarily if the importer does not want to pay the duty/VAT charges.
Note: FedEx will not handle temporary import shipments for those importers who do not have an ongoing license for temporary goods. A non-FedEx broker must handle Temporary Import shipments. The exhibitor / importer must make prior arrangements with a local broker to avoid lengthy customs delays. In the event that the total amount of duties and VAT levied by customs are less than the costs for clearance, FedEx may clear the shipment with payment of duty and VAT.

Country of Origin Marking
Marking of all goods consigned for consumption into the Netherlands (EU) commerce must be legible. This means it must be of an adequate size, and clear enough, to be read easily by a person of normal vision. The article should be marked as permanently as the nature of the product will permit. However, any reasonable method of marking that will accomplish the purpose of the law is acceptable. Markings that do not remain on the article during handling will be considered an improper marking. The best form of marking is one which becomes a part of the article itself, such as branding, stenciling, stamping, printing, molding and similar methods. Other forms of marking will be acceptable if it is certain that the marking used will remain on the article, and will remain legible and conspicuous, until the article reaches the ultimate purchaser in the Netherlands. It is important that this marking withstand handling. This means it must be of a type that can be defaced, destroyed, removed, altered, obliterated, or obscured only by a deliberate act. When tags are used, they must be attached in a conspicuous place and in a manner, which assures that, unless deliberately removed, they will remain on the article until it reaches the ultimate purchaser.

Marking of Goods
Machines, personal protection goods, electronic goods, medical products and toys must bear the appropriate CE marking. These goods placed for sale or use in the Netherlands (EU) must meet certain safety regulations and must bear the appropriate CE marking.

Awards
Awards (e.g. from companies to employees) may be exempted from duty and VAT if the awards are clearly awards (e.g. video cameras are not accepted as an award) and personalized (e.g. engraving of the name of the recipient). The Commercial Invoice should have a statement identifying the goods as awards. A sample of the text statement is available in the GTM Global Trade Manager Document Library for your review.

Temporary Imports: Including Repaired Articles or Articles for Repair
Articles consigned for Temporary Import, goods for exhibition, goods for repair, goods for incorporation into other articles and goods imported for further processing and re-export are acceptable for importation into the Netherlands. These articles require special processing and customs clearance, which must be handled by a non-FedEx broker. Clearance delays could be experienced on entries lodged for these type shipments. Shipments of these type goods can also be consigned as ATA (Airport to Airport) shipments and designated for handling by an approved local clearance agent or forwarder. Prior arrangements with a local agent are strongly recommended to avoid lengthy customs delays.

In addition to goods imported temporarily, exemptions of duty and VAT may also apply to the following issues. Some of them require a license prior to import. The following is a non-exhaustive list of items that may qualify for duty and VAT exemptions:

* Wedding gifts
* Goods obtained via inheritance
* Pharmaceutical goods for international sports events
* Printed matter especially made for the blind
* Objects especially made for the blind or handicapped and imported by them for personal use
* Goods for non-profit organization dealing with charitable issues
* Objects made especially for the blind or disabled and imported by licensed organizations
* Goods for the sake of victims of disasters
* Exhibition goods: Giveaways / stand building material etc.
* Printed matter designed specifically to promote or be used for tourist purposes

ATA Carnets
FedEx Express International Priority Service does not handle shipments accompanied by an ATA Carnet as they require special customs clearance and processing that is not available under standard FedEx Clearance processing for the Netherlands. Shipments traveling under ATA Carnets can be handled only via ATA (airport to airport) services and will require that a local clearance agent or broker handle the clearance.

Customs Valuation
Duties are assessed on a CIF basis. Members of the European Union adhere to Article VII of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade concerning customs valuation. There are five methods for the determination of customs valuation in descending order of application. The first states that customs valuation is the transaction value, i.e., the price that is actually paid or payable for the goods by foreign importers, plus certain costs and expenses; for the transaction value to be acceptable, certain conditions must be met, notably that the buyer and seller be unrelated. If the first method is rejected by Customs, other means may be adopted to establish customs value as follows: transaction value of identical goods; transaction value of similar goods; deductive method, i.e., the resale price, less such costs as customs duties, taxes, and commissions; and computed value, utilizing costs of production, profit, and other expenses. The agreement further provides for customs valuation based on either FOB or CIF value. Other areas are covered, such as rapidity of clearance of goods, currency convertibility, appeal privileges and rights, and publication of laws and regulations. A rough guide to assist in calculating import duties and VAT follows. These examples apply to most commodities tendered for clearance for consumption entry into the Netherlands. Since the assessment of duty and related taxes varies by commodity, country of origin, preference agreements and in some cases the actual manufacturer of the goods; note that this information is offered as a general example of how duty may be assessed.

Import duties are generally calculated and assessed as follows:
Invoice value of the goods + Transport (insurance/ freight) costs x duty percentage = Import duties

VAT (value added tax) is assessed as follows:
Invoice value of the goods + Transport cost + import duties x 19%(highest VAT rate) = VAT

Note that each commodity has its own specific import duty percentage as defined by the Tariff used by Dutch Customs and that some commodities can be exempt from duty. Further information regarding import duties can be obtained from http://www.douane.nl/zakelijk/invoer/en/invoer-04.html.

Import Duties
All merchandise coming into the Netherlands must clear Customs and is subject to customs duty assessment unless the goods are duty or tax exempt by law. Customs duties are, generally, an ad valorem rate (a percentage), which is applied to the transaction value (EU Euro) of the imported goods based on the cost of the goods, insurance, and freight charges. Some articles, however, are dutiable at a specific rate of duty (so much per piece, liter, kilo etc.) and others at a compound rate (combination of both ad valorem and specific rates). The dutiable value of merchandise is determined by the EU Customs code. Several appraisal methods are used to arrive at this value. Generally, the transaction value of the merchandise serves as a basis of appraisal. Transaction value is the price the buyer actually pays the seller for the goods sold and being imported. The Harmonized Tariff Schedule of European Union prescribes the rates of duty and classification of merchandise by the type of product; i.e. animal and vegetable products, textile fibers and textile products. The tariff schedule provides several rates of duty for each item.

Additional Taxes and Fees

Countervailing
Countervailing duties are assessed to counter the effects of subsidies provided by a foreign government for merchandise exported to the Netherlands resulting in artificially low prices that are detrimental to the Netherlands and other European Union member states' industries.

Watch Duty Rate
Watches imported into Netherlands are subject to classification and duty assessment based on a per item basis. The actual duty and the final rate of duty are determined based on the classification of the watch at the time of entry processing with customs.

Antidumping
Under strict enforcement of unfair trade laws, Customs will assess antidumping duties or countervailing duties. Antidumping duties are assessed on imported merchandise sold in the Netherlands (EU) at less than the normal price of goods in the manufacturer's home market (also called fair market value). The amount of the antidumping duty assessed will be determined based on the margin of dumping measured when the following factors are considered: (1) the export price compared to the comparable prevailing price for an identical or similar product destined for consumption in the country of origin from which it was exported (2) if there are no sales of identical or similar products in the ordinary course of trade in the exporter's domestic market or if there is no valid basis for comparison of such sales due to the particular market situation, the export price compared with (a) the comparable priced of the like product exported to a third country - such price being the highest export price, nevertheless a representative one or (b) the cost of production in the country of origin plus reasonable amounts for administration, selling, other costs, and profits; and (3) when there is not export price or the export priced is unreliable, e.g., as that of a manufacturer supplying a subsidiary, it may be constructed on the basis of the price at which the imported product is resold the first time to an independent buyer, or if not resold to an independent buyer or not resold in the state in which it was imported, on any reasonable basis.

A written complaint may be submitted by an individual or company threatened or injured by dumping either to authorities in the Netherlands or directly to the EU Commission, which will initially review the complaint for completeness and substantiation. If the Commission is satisfied that sufficient grounds exist, it will initiate further investigation, the Commission will issue antidumping measures deemed to be necessary. The Commission is required to notify the parties concerned and publish its findings in the EU's official journal.

Excise Duties
Excise taxes are accessed against certain commodities, which are normally identified as "luxury" goods. The excise tax is normally assessed against beer, spirits, wine and sparkling beverages, sugar and products containing sugar, tobacco products, soft drinks and petroleum products. Most excise taxes are levied on a specific basis, and the rates are the same for imported and domestic goods.

There is a Fuel tax on coal, natural gas, blast furnace gas, coke gas, coal gas and mineral oils such as petrol, diesel fuel, heating gas oil, and heavy fuel oil. The tax on mineral oils is levied with the excise duty on mineral oils. The tax on the other commodities is levied on persons who extract, produce, or import them and subsequently use them as fuel or transfer them to others for use as fuels. The fuel tax is levied on a specific basis.

Additional Duties

Import Taxes
There is a value-added tax (VAT) imposed on all domestic and imported goods at every stage of the manufacturing and distribution chain. On imports the tax is assessed on the CIF duty-paid value at the port of entry in the Netherlands; if excise taxes or other charges (excluding VAT) are applicable, the amount levied also is included. The VAT rate is the same for both domestic and imported goods.

Customs Fees
There are no customs surcharges. Violations of customs regulations can result in a fine. Antidumping duties may be imposed if it is established that imported products cause or threaten to cause material injury to an established domestic industry or if they threaten material retardation to the establishment of an industry planed for the near future.


Exchange Controls
No Exchange Controls

Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT's)
Technical barriers or non-tariff barriers to trade as they are sometimes known, can cause many problems for exporters looking for new markets for their products. These barriers can be in the form of regulations, standards,
testing and certification procedures. The World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade tries to ensure that these barriers do not create unnecessary obstacles. To obtain further information on
Technical Barriers to Trade as well as Notifications on technical regulations and conformity assessment procedures, go to the WTO website at http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tbt_e/tbt_e.htm.

Consular Fees
N/A

General Import Clearance
The broker performing the clearance generally completes customs clearance electronically. Entry information is sent to the central customs computer. There are several types used for clearance in the Netherlands. The specific entry requirement is based on the shipment value, approved use, commodity type, and licensing or other controls as well as the reason for importation.

General Import Entry Types

* High value clearance (Duty / VAT paid if applicable)
* Low Value clearance (Exemption Duty / VAT requested)
* T1 (Transfer cargo not cleared to bonded warehouse)
* Simplified procedure (Licensed consignee will perform clearance themselves)
* Consignee has to provide clearance documents themselves (NATO 302 form, D39 Embassy goods etc.)
* CARNET Shipments: FedEx does not handle Carnets shipments under its FedEx Express International Priority Services

When entry information is sent to the central customs computer, the computer will process the input data and send back a response to the agent assigning the shipment a color code. The color code is important as it determines how long it will take for the shipment to clear. The three possible color codes are white, green or red. Shipments selected red will require formal examination of the documentation by a customs officer prior to release being granted. Additionally, a physical examination of the contents of the shipment may also be required. White and green is an approval for the release of goods. The difference between white and green is only of importance for the clearance agent himself.
(Exception: COD shipments selected green or red cannot be released until changed by customs to white).

The following is a general guide to when each entry type may be used:

Low value imports and documents valued up to 22 Euro except for commodities subject to excise duty such as tobacco products, commodities having an alcohol or spirit content, hydrocarbon oils, etc. or commodities for which special regulations apply as prohibited items, medicines, CITES, phytosanitary, etc. or goods where low value is stated but do not represent a fair market value.

High value goods valued from 22 Euro upwards. Note: High value shipments, which need to be cleared temporarily into the Netherlands, will be handed through another broker other than FedEx for further handling unless the consignee has an ongoing license for temporary import. Temporary import and reason for import should be stated on the invoice. If the costs for temporary clearance are higher than duties and vat levied, FedEx will clear the shipment with payment of duties and vat.

Returned goods. Goods returned to the Netherlands after exhibition, repair etc. may be cleared without payment of duties and VAT. The Air Waybill and invoice should state clearly that the shipment is returned after exhibition, repair etc. The consignee will be contacted, as the original export documentation is needed for clearance. Delays are possible. The invoice should state serial numbers, model numbers, etc. in order that identification of the goods that were previously exported can be completed without physically examining the goods.

T1 shipments/Transit goods are shipments that need to be transferred to a bonded warehouse without having been cleared (i.e. no payment of duty and vat). Those shipments can only be transferred to a bonded warehouse if the consignee has notified the broker that they have a bonded warehouse and the consignee has sent a copy of their bonded warehouse license to the broker. Some goods cannot be transported with a T1 (e.g. Excise goods, etc.).

Special clearance process for licensed consignees. A few licensed consignees can use a simplified procedure. It enables them to receive the goods quickly without any customs delays. The consignee himself completes clearance.






Netherlands Import Prohibitions

The following is a partial listing of commodities that might be prohibited for entry into the Netherlands:

* Animals, Birds and other Livestock
* Animal carcasses or products
* Certain Agricultural Products
* Counterfeit coins and bank notes, passports, etc.
* Child pornography
* Embryos; animal, birds and other
* Explosives
* Counterfeit or pirated goods
* Laser Pointers class III and IV
* Laser Gadgets Class II, III, and IV
* Fish and Fish products
* Flours and meal of animal origin
* Goods bearing false origin statements
* Goods infringing a trade mark
* Goods infringing a copyright
* Ozone depleting substances
* Unregistered pharmaceutical products
* Plants; live plants, cuttings and including seeds for same. Flower seeds are accepted with a commercial invoic. Sunflower and all other seeds (vegetable, etc) are prohibited.
* Semen
* Tasers and similar products (objects which can paralyze or hurt persons using electrical shocks)
* Waste products
* Weapons




General Import Restrictions

The following items are not acceptable for carriage to any international destinations unless otherwise indicated. (Additional restrictions may apply depending on destination. Various regulatory clearances in addition to customs clearance may be required for certain commodities, thereby extending the transit time.)

* APO/FPO addresses.

* C.O.D. shipments.

* Human corpses, human organs or body parts, human and animal embryos, or cremated or disinterred human remains.

* Explosives (Class 1.4 explosives are acceptable for carriage to Canada, Germany, Japan, Sweden, United Arab Emirates and United Kingdom. Note: United Arab Emirates only allows Class 1.4 explosives to be shipped hold- for- pick-up to the FedEx Express facility in Dubai.)

* Firearms, weaponry, and their parts (acceptable between the U.S. and Puerto Rico).

* Perishable foodstuffs and foods and beverages requiring refrigeration or other environmental control.

* Live animals (including insects) except via our Live Animal Desk (1.800.405.9052).

* Plants and plant material, including cut flowers (cut flowers are acceptable from the U.S. to selected points in Canada and from Colombia, Ecuador and the Netherlands to the U.S.).

* Lottery tickets and gambling devices where prohibited by local, state, provincial or national law.

* Money (coins, cash, currency, paper money and negotiable instruments equivalent to cash such as endorsed stocks, bonds and cash letters).

* Collectible coins and stamps.

* Pornographic and/or obscene material.

* Hazardous waste, including, but not limited to, used hypodermic needles or syringes or other medical waste.

* Shipments that may cause damage to, or delay of, equipment, personnel or other shipments.

* Shipments that require us to obtain any special license or permit for transportation, importation or exportation.

* Shipments whose carriage, importation or exportation is prohibited by any law, statute or regulation.

* Shipments with a declared value for customs in excess of that permitted for a specific destination.

* Dangerous goods except as permitted under the Dangerous Goods section of these terms and conditions.

* Processed or unprocessed dead animals, including insects and pets. Taxidermy-finished hunting trophies or completely processed (dried) specimens of whole animals or parts of animals are acceptable for shipment into the U.S.

* Packages that are wet, leaking or emit an odor of any kind.

* Wildlife products that require U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service export clearance by FedEx prior to exportation from the U.S.

* Shipments* being processed under:

Duty drawback claims unless advance arrangements are made.

Temporary Import Bonds - acceptable under the FedEx International Broker Select option, for initial import only.

U.S. State Department licenses.

Carnets.

U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration export permit.

Shipments destined to or being withdrawn from a Foreign Trade Zone.

Letters of Credit (however, shipments covered by a Letter of Credit calling for a "Courier Receipt" as defined by Article 25 of UCP 600 may move via FedEx International Priority).

Certificate of Registration shipments (CF4455).

Shipments moving into or out of Foreign Trade Zones or bonded warehouses.

*You may be able to ship these items via FedEx International Premium, FedEx International Express Freight (IXF), FedEx International Airport-to-Airport (ATA) or FedEx International Controlled Export. For information on FedEx International Premium, IXF and ITA, call FedEx Express Freight Services at 1.800.332.0807. For information on FedEx International Controlled Export, call International Customer Service at 1.800.247.4747or your local FedEx customer service representative.






Netherlands Restrictions

The following is a partial listing of commodities that might be restricted for entry into the Netherlands:

* Animals, Birds and other Livestock
* Animal carcasses or products
* Certain Agricultural Products
* Goods containing a high level of cadmium
* DHEA
* Drugs/Pharmaceuticals
* Embryos; animal, birds and other
* Products subject to 'Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora' (CITIES)
* Melatonine
* Milk powder
* Fish and Fish products
* Flours and meal of animal origin
* Ozone depleting substances
* Poultry
* Semen
* Viagra
* Wood
* Goods traveling under an ATA Carnet.
* Motorcycle helmets
* edible starches
* Fillings for cushions, bedding, toys, clothing, and furniture
* Textiles
* Beverages
* Preparations for smoke treatment of foodstuffs
* Rubber condoms
* Fuel Oil
* Agricultural chemicals and equipment
* Soft drink containers
* Certain rubber tubing
* Glassware







Special Import Provisions

All shipments from Canada, China, Japan and the United States containing Non Manufactured Wood Packing Materials (NWPM) of coniferous wood, must be treated and marked. If originated in China, the shipment must also have a Certificate of Attestation. Repaired Articles or Articles for Repair.

The majority of imports are free from licensing requirements. Import licenses are required for a limited number of products such as agricultural, steel and other base metal, and textile sectors, as well as coal and lignite fuel, imports from certain countries, and imported goods of unknown origin. Licenses are not transferable, but they may be used to cover several shipments within the total quantity authorized. When an import license is required, importation must take place within the validity period of the license.





Personal Effects
Personal effects are acceptable for transport to the Netherlands but will be subject to the applicable duty and tax. (not exempt from duty and tax). Duty exemption is only possible for non commercial transactions between private individuals for shipments valued under 45 Euros including freight charges.

Samples
Samples are acceptable and will be exempt for all Duty and VAT provided that they meet the following criteria:

Mutilation. Mutilated goods must have a large hole cut in a prominent location, making the goods unsuitable for sale. The shipper's documents, preferably the commercial invoice provided should state that the article(s) is a mutilated sample- not for resale or other use. A Certificate of Origin will not be required for import. Only a standard air Waybill or Bill of Lading and commercial invoice will be needed. The commercial invoice should have a statement regarding mutilation. See the library for a sample. Marks. Marked samples are acceptable as long as the article is properly marked on a prominent location on the outer side of the article in indelible ink. The article should be marked with the word "SAMPLE" in contrasting ink and in such a manner that it can be easily seen upon inspection. The shipper's documents, preferably the commercial invoice should state that the articles are marked samples- not for resale or other use. A Certificate of Origin will not be required for import. Only a standard Air Waybill or Bill of Lading and Commercial Invoice will be needed. The commercial Invoice should have a statement regarding marking. See the library for a sample.

* Only single items representing a style, model, etc.
* Shoes - only 1 shoe of the pair, of a particular style, model, etc.

Articles that arrive without proper documents or markings as noted will be subject to normal entry and document requirements and as such full duty and VAT.

Gifts
Articles consigned as "Unsolicited gifts" are acceptable and will be allowed entry free of any duty or VAT providing the shipment is valued at less than 45 EURO originated from and consigned to an individual, and are individually wrapped. Multiple gifts can be consigned in one shipment so long as the individual parcels enclosed are individually tagged with the recipients name, are individually wrapped and the value does not exceed the per person limit of 45 EURO. Shipments consigned to companies as gifts for an individual may be denied entry as gifts and will be subject to full duty and VAT. Generally, most articles can be consigned as gifts, except those articles noted prohibited or restricted for import (see General Import Prohibitions and Restrictions).

Exceptions to note, limited to only one of the following articles per gift:

Cigarettes (50 cigarettes total) Perfume (50 grams net weight)
Toilet Water (.25 liter) Liquor Spirits, Wine (1 liter total)
Cigars (10 cigars total, not of Cuban origin) Small cigars (25 total)
The gift shipment should be tendered with the following documents and statements:

* Air Waybill
* Commercial Invoice
* The description provided on both the Air Waybill or bill of Lading and Commercial Invoice should specify the description of the actual goods enclosed and followed with this statement or similar "Unsolicited gifts not for resale or other purpose". Descriptions such as "Gift" or "Unsolicited Gifts" should be avoided.




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Standards

The European Union issues directives to harmonize safety standards for regulated industrial products marketed in member countries. The European Union wide "CE" mark will supersede all other compliance requirements. The CE mark is mandatory by law for products to be marketed in all the EU member states. For many products, the EC mark may be affixed by the manufacturer, based on its own testing to verify that the product meets EU requirements. EU legislation may require that an independent third party be involved in product assessment and has established "notified bodies" (testing or certification agencies ) as qualified third parties. Harmonization diminishes trade barriers, promotes safety, allows interoperability of products, systems and services, and promotes common technical understanding.

The European Committee for Standardization - CEN works in partnership with the European Committee for Electro technical Standardization - CENELEC (www.cenelec.org) and the European Telecommunications Standards Institute - ETSI (www.etsi.org). Several EU Directives are imposed on the electrical and electronic appliances, which govern standards on electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), low voltage (safety of electrical equipment); energy labeling of household lamps; and gas appliances, etc.

The Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Directive requires that all electrical and electronic products to be sold in the EU market must not emit electromagnetic disturbance exceeding certain maximum levels, and must be of adequate levels of immunity to such disturbance.

The EU new Directive (98/101/EC) limits the content of mercury in batteries and accumulators imported into the European market from 1 January 2000. Regulated batteries and accumulators cannot contain more than 0.0005% by weight of mercury. The limitation of cadmium and lead remains the same as 91/157/EEC.

Imports of telecommunication products must be approved by British Approval Broad of Telecommunications (BABT) in UK and Federal Approvals Office for Telecommunications(Bondsman fur Zulassungen in der Telekommunikation, BZT) in Germany.

The EU directive 92/75/EEC on the energy labeling of household electric refrigerators, freezers and their combinations, household washing machines, household electric tumble dryers, combined washer-dryers, and dishwashers household lamps.

Criteria for Eco-label for personal computer are : energy savings on monitors and control units; accompany with a commercial guarantee from the manufacturer that the computer system and the monitor will function for a period of three years and a year after the date of delivery to the customer respectively; composition of certain components of the computer where 90% of plastic and metal materials in the housing shall be recyclable; and the unit come complete with user instructions and an environment declaration of its ecological attributes.

Ionization chamber - type smoke detectors are required to meet safety regulations of the EU regarding electromagnetic radiation. Space detectors are also required to be in compliance with local radio frequency regulations of overseas markets.

Products to be sold to EU must carry a CE mark to show the product conform to the stipulated requirements in all directives. The CE mark shall affix onto the product by its manufacturer or importer, as a self-declaration. For some products, supplementary certification marks issued by a notified body as certification of conformity are required.

EU labeling regulations and standards need to be carefully monitored. Imports, which fail to meet marking and labeling requirement, will be refused for entry. Products bearing the CE mark are guaranteed free circulation within the EU market.





General Export Clearance Information

Clearance Process
Export from the Netherlands is under control of Dutch Customs. Customs are responsible for the enforcement of national and European laws and regulations. These laws and regulations cover health, security, economic interest, protection of antique heritage and many others. Dutch Customs are appointed by the government to conduct the first inspections for many official bodies. Such as: RVV (veterinarian inspections), AID (Animal and related inspections CITES), Politie (police), Vreemdelingendienst (immigration office), CDIU (Central department for import and export licenses), VROM (ministry of health).

For all shipments that are being exported to the Netherlands from outside the European Community, an entry is required. Customs clearance is completed electronically through "SAGUTTA". SAGUTTA is the electronic counterpart of SAGITTA, which controls the import section. The entry is made in our export system "Interchain" which has a direct link with SAGUTTA. Shipments with a value less than 800 Euro (approx. 700 US$) are non-statistical and will be cleared trough a low-value list. This regulation is based on art.76 of the CDW. For shipments above 800 Euro, a regular entry is required. This entry is for standard shipments on EX1. For temporary shipments, an EX2 and for shipments that have been temporarily imported and now being exported, an EX3. For temporary export, a license is required. It can be obtained at the local FedEx offices.

The consignee is responsible for giving correct information. Incorrect information can lead to penalties, confiscation or delay of shipment.


Document Requirements
Bill of Lading/Air Waybill
A bill of lading or Airway bill is always required.

Certificates of Origin
Certificates of Origin (if requested by importer).

Commercial Invoices
Invoices are required for all shipments. Invoices should show freight, insurance, value of the goods, name of consignee, correct address, phone- and/or fax number, a clear description of the goods, (if possible the harmonized code), Incoterm. In case of returned goods, a statement that this concerns return after (fill in reason) and serial numbers and model numbers. In the case of goods for temporary import, a statement should be included that this concerns temporary import (fill in a reason), and serial numbers and model numbers should also be included.

Packing List




Export Clearance Process
Export from the Netherlands is under control of Dutch Customs. Customs are responsible for the enforcement of national and European laws and regulations. These laws and regulations cover health, security, economic interest, protection of antique heritage and many others. Dutch Customs are appointed by the government to conduct the first inspections for many official bodies. Such as: RVV (veterinarian inspections), AID (Animal and related inspections CITES), Politie (police), Vreemdelingendienst (immigration office), CDIU (Central department for import and export licenses), VROM (ministry of health).

For all shipments that are being exported to the Netherlands from outside the European Community, an entry is required. Customs clearance is completed electronically through "SAGUTTA". SAGUTTA is the electronic counterpart of SAGITTA, which controls the import section. The entry is made in our export system "Interchain" which has a direct link with SAGUTTA. Shipments with a value less than 800 Euro (approx. 700 US$) are non-statistical and will be cleared trough a low-value list. This regulation is based on art.76 of the CDW. For shipments above 800 Euro, a regular entry is required. This entry is for standard shipments on EX1. For temporary shipments, an EX2 and for shipments that have been temporarily imported and now being exported, an EX3. For temporary export, a license is required. It can be obtained at the local FedEx offices.

The consignee is responsible for giving correct information. Incorrect information can lead to penalties, confiscation or delay of shipment.




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Netherlands Export Prohibitions

The Dutch government can apply export regulations that can take the form of prohibition such as blockades, export license, embargoes, and others. Export controls may be product-specific, end use, end user or ultimate country of destination.

The following is a partial list of commodities that may be prohibited or restricted for export from the Netherlands:

* Dual Use goods
* Military goods
* Antiques
* Culture goods
* Drugs
* Precursors
* Certain agricultural goods
* Animals, Birds and other Livestock
* Counterfeit coins and bank notes, passports, etc.
* Explosives
* Products subject to 'Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora' (CITIES)
* Fish and Fish products
* Ozone depleting substances
* Plants; live plants, cuttings and including seeds for same. Flower seeds are accepted with a commercial invoice. Sunflower and all other seeds (vegetables, etc) are prohibited.
* Poultry
* Semen
* Waste products
* Weapons
* Meats, cheeses, and related dairy products (due to Foot and Mouth disease control efforts)




General Export Restrictions

The following items are not acceptable for carriage to any international destinations unless otherwise indicated. (Additional restrictions may apply depending on destination. Various regulatory clearances in addition to customs clearance may be required for certain commodities, thereby extending the transit time.)

* APO/FPO addresses.

* C.O.D. shipments.

* Human corpses, human organs or body parts, human and animal embryos, or cremated or disinterred human remains.

* Explosives (Class 1.4 explosives are acceptable for carriage to Canada, Germany, Japan, Sweden, United Arab Emirates and United Kingdom. Note: United Arab Emirates only allows Class 1.4 explosives to be shipped hold- for- pick-up to the FedEx Express facility in Dubai.)

* Firearms, weaponry, and their parts (acceptable between the U.S. and Puerto Rico).

* Perishable foodstuffs and foods and beverages requiring refrigeration or other environmental control.

* Live animals (including insects) except via our Live Animal Desk (1.800.405.9052).

* Plants and plant material, including cut flowers (cut flowers are acceptable from the U.S. to selected points in Canada and from Colombia, Ecuador and the Netherlands to the U.S.).

* Lottery tickets and gambling devices where prohibited by local, state, provincial or national law.

* Money (coins, cash, currency, paper money and negotiable instruments equivalent to cash such as endorsed stocks, bonds and cash letters).

* Collectible coins and stamps.

* Pornographic and/or obscene material.

* Hazardous waste, including, but not limited to, used hypodermic needles or syringes or other medical waste.

* Shipments that may cause damage to, or delay of, equipment, personnel or other shipments.

* Shipments that require us to obtain any special license or permit for transportation, importation or exportation.

* Shipments whose carriage, importation or exportation is prohibited by any law, statute or regulation.

* Shipments with a declared value for customs in excess of that permitted for a specific destination.

* Dangerous goods except as permitted under the Dangerous Goods section of these terms and conditions.

* Processed or unprocessed dead animals, including insects and pets. Taxidermy-finished hunting trophies or completely processed (dried) specimens of whole animals or parts of animals are acceptable for shipment into the U.S.

* Packages that are wet, leaking or emit an odor of any kind.

* Wildlife products that require U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service export clearance by FedEx prior to exportation from the U.S.

* Shipments* being processed under:

Duty drawback claims unless advance arrangements are made.

Temporary Import Bonds - acceptable under the FedEx International Broker Select option, for initial import only.

U.S. State Department licenses.

Carnets.

U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration export permit.

Shipments destined to or being withdrawn from a Foreign Trade Zone.

Letters of Credit (however, shipments covered by a Letter of Credit calling for a "Courier Receipt" as defined by Article 25 of UCP 600 may move via FedEx International Priority).

Certificate of Registration shipments (CF4455).

Shipments moving into or out of Foreign Trade Zones or bonded warehouses.

*You may be able to ship these items via FedEx International Premium, FedEx International Express Freight (IXF), FedEx International Airport-to-Airport (ATA) or FedEx International Controlled Export. For information on FedEx International Premium, IXF and ITA, call FedEx Express Freight Services at 1.800.332.0807. For information on FedEx International Controlled Export, call International Customer Service at 1.800.247.4747 or your local FedEx customer service representative.






Netherlands Restrictions

The Dutch government can apply export regulations that can take the form of prohibition such as blockades, export license, embargoes, and others. Export controls may be product-specific, end use, end user or ultimate country of destination.

The following is a partial list of commodities that may be prohibited or restricted for export from the Netherlands:

* Dual Use goods
* Military goods
* Antiques
* Culture goods
* Drugs
* Precursors
* Certain agricultural goods
* Animals, Birds and other Livestock
* Counterfeit coins and bank notes, passports, etc.
* Explosives
* Products subject to 'Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora' (CITIES)
* Fish and Fish products
* Ozone depleting substances
* Plants; live plants, cuttings and including seeds for same
* Poultry
* Semen
* Waste products
* Weapons
* Meats, cheeses, and related dairy products (due to Foot and Mouth disease control efforts)


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Regulatory Contact Information

Branch or Agency Name


Areas of Responsibility
Ministry of Finance
Korte Voorhout 7 Den Haag
Tel: +31 70 342 8000
Fax: +31 70 342 7953
Ministry of Economic Affairs
Juliana van Stolberglaan 148,
2595 CL The Hague
The Netherlands
Tel: +31 (0)70 778 8888
Fax: +31 (0)70 778 8889
Ministry of Health
VROM
Postbus 16119
2500 BC Den Haag.
Tel: +31 70 340 6420 (medicine) Mrs.v.d.Berg /Mr.Stolk.
Fax: +31 70 340 7159 (medicine) Mrs.v.d.Berg /Mr.Stolk.
Tel: +31 70 333 5666 (euratom) Mr.Blouw
Tel: +31 70 339 4744 (enviromental chem.) Mr.Gijsbertsen
Tel: +31 70 340 6278 (narcotic substances) Mrs.Jerphanion
Tel: +31 70 339 4879 (CFK's) Mrs.De Jen
C.D.I.U. Central Department of Import/Export - Customs Central Services
Engelse Kamp 2 9722 AX Groningen
Tel: +31 50 523 9111 (general info)
Tel: +31 50 523 2203 Mr.Haykens - Textiles
Tel: +31 50 523 9111 Mr. W. Dikkens - Weapons
Tel: +31 50 523 9111 Mr Van Den Steen - Weapons
Tel: +31 50 520 2162 Mr .Pehlig - Culture Goods
Tel: +31 50 523 2208 Mr.Tromp - Precursors
Tel: +31 50 523 9111 Mr.Peerdeman - Dual Use Goods
Fax: +31 50 523 2341
Link: n/a

* Responsible for issuing import & export licences and monitors total import quotas

Inspectorate for Health Protection
HIGB (keuringsdienst van waren)
Tel: +31 10 4020800 (Fireworks) Dhr.v.Dop.
Fax: +31 10 4130869
Dutch Customs Helpdesk
Douanetelefoon
Tollfree inside NL: +31 800 0143
Outside NL: +31 45 574 3031

* General information regarding import and export to and from the Netherlands.

K.V.K. Chamber of Commerce


* Issues Eur 1 / Carnets / ATR. Gives general help to importing/exporting companies etc.
Call locally. For adress info see link.

Waarborg Holland
Stationsplein 9 Gouda
Tlf.: +31 182 589 300
Fax: +31 182 526 876



* For information regarding import of precious metals and also has the authority for certifying precious metals.

Office for Registration Animal Medicine
Bureau registratie dierengenees middelen
Bornsesteeg 45
6708 PD Wageningen
Tlf: +31 317 475 491
Fax: +31 317 423 193



* Info and issueing licences for veterinary medicine

International Office for Waste Products
I.M.A. (int'l meldpunt afvalstoffen)
Postbus 418
3440 AE Woerden
Tel: +31 348 4874 30
Fax: +31 348 4874 03



* Information about import - export - transport of waste products.

Veterinary Inspection Services
RVV (rijkskeuringsdienst)
Burg.Feithlaan 1
2273 BZ Voorburg
Tlf: +31 70 3578811
Tlf: +31 20 6557050 (Schiphol airport)
Fax: +31 20 6557067 (Schiphol airport)



* Completes examination regarding Border Cross Certificates.

Phytosanitary Certificates
PD (plantenziektenkundige dienst)
Geertjesweg 15
6700 HC Wageningen
Tlf: +31 317 496911
Fax: +31 317 421701

* Issues phytosanitary certificates and conducts inspections.

Customs Office for Removal Licences and Student Equipment
Verhuisboedel vergunning aanvraagpunt.
Nieuwe Havenweg 53 / II
1216 BL Hilversum
Tel: +31 35 623 2441
Fax: +31 35 6232359
CITES Office of Agriculture and Fishery
Postbus 1191
3300 BD Dordrecht
queries daily from 14:00 till 16:30 local time.
Tel: +31 78 6395 340
Fax: +31 78 6395 394

* Issues import and export Cites.

National Industrial Property Office
Ned.Normalisatie Instituut.
Kalfjeslaan 2
2623 AA Delft
Tel: +31 15 2690 390
Fax: +31 15 2690 190


Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Fishery
Ministerie landbouw, natuurbeheer en visserij
Bezuidenhoutseweg 73
2594 AC Den Haag
Tel: +31 70 378 4062
Fax: +31 70 378 6185



* Concerned with CITES etc.

Head Import Agency for Agriculture
Stadhoudersplantsoen 12-18
2517 JL Den Haag
Postbus 29739
2502 LS Den Haag
Tel: +31 70 3708 708
Tel: +31 70 3708 254 wine dept.
Fax: +31 70 3461 400

* Main Board for Arable Products.
Concerned with import/export regulations, licences and quotas for corn, seeds, legume, rice, sugar, wine, cattlefeed etc.

Head Import Agency for Agriculture
Postbus 29739
2502 LS Den Haag
Tel: +31 70 3708 708
Tel: +31 70 3708 254 wine dept.
Fax: +31 70 3461 400



* Product Board Grains, Seeds and Pulses

Import Agency for Milk Products
Productschap zuivel
Sir W.Churchilllaan 275
2288 EA Rijswijk (ZH)
Tel: +31 70 340 9911
Fax: +31 70 340 9949



* Concerned with import/export regulations, licences and quotas of milk products.

Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Fishery
Productschap Vee Vlees
Sir W.Churchilllaan 275
2288 EA Rijswijk (ZH)
Postbus 5805
2280 HV Rijswijk (Z.H.)
Tel: +31 70 340 9922
Fax: +31 70 340 9840



* Import agency concerned with import/export regulations, licences and quotas of cattle, meat.

Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Fishery
Productschap tuinbouw
Postbus 280
2700 AG Zoetermeer
Tel: +31 79 347 0707
Fax: +31 79



* Import agency concerned with import/export regulations, licences and quotas of horticultural products

Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Fishery
Productschap vis en visproducten
Treubstraat 17
2280 EH Rijswijk (Z.H.)
Tel: +31 70 336 9600
Fax: +31 70 399 9426



* Import agency concerned with import/export regulations, licences and quotas of fish and fishery products

Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Fishery
Productschap oliŒn en vetten
AmpÀrelaan 4d
2289 CD Rijswijk (Z.H.)
Tel: +31 70 3 195 195
Fax: +31 70 3 998 046



* Import agency concerned with import/export regulations, licences and quotas for margerine, fat, and oil products

Commodity Board for Beer
Herengracht 282
1016 BX Amsterdam
Tel: +31 20 623 1079
Fax: +31 20 622 6074



* Import agency concerned with import/export regulations, licences and quotas for beer.

Commodity Board for Distilled Spirits
Westmolenstraat 2
3111 BS Schiedam
Tel : +31 10 426 9340
Fax: +31 1



* Import agency concerned with import/export regulations, licences and quotas for distilled liquors.

Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Fishery
Productschap Pluimvee en eieren
Utrechtseweg 31
3704 HA Zeist
Tel : +31 30 696 7911
Fax: +31 30



* Import agency concerned with import/export regulations, licences and quotas for poultry and eggs

National Center of Prevention
De Molen 1
3994 DA Houten
Tel : -31 30 229 6000
Fax : +31 30 229 6010



* Concerned with the Import of Fire Extinguishers

Ministry Foreign Affairs
Ministerie buitenlandse zaken
Bezuidenhoutseweg 67
2594 AC Den Haag
Tel: +31 70 3484202 afd.politieke zaken
Fax: +31 70 3486749 afd.politieke zaken


Ministry of Culture and Science
Ministerie van OC en W
Europaweg 4
2700 LZ Zoetermeer
Tel: +31 79 323 2323
Fax: +31 79 323 2320