Shipping from the Netherlands to Norway
Your essential guide to costs, customs & eco-friendly options when shipping to Norway
In this guide, you'll discover everything you need to know about shipping goods from the Netherlands to Norway.
We'll break down the costs involved, from transportation fees to customs duties, and reveal strategies for saving money. You'll learn about the different shipping methods available, including their speed and environmental impact, so you can choose the best option for your business. We'll also guide you through the customs process, ensuring your shipments arrive smoothly and on time.
This guide will equip you with the knowledge and resources to succeed when shipping from the Netherlands to Norway.
Below you can also request multiple quotes from freight forwarders for your shipment.
Key Steps when Importing to Norway from the Netherlands
Pre-Import Considerations:
First of all, you should know the product class of what you are shipping to Norway. Determine the correct Harmonized System (HS) code for your goods, as this dictates applicable customs duties and taxes. Check the Norwegian Customs Tariff or request a quote with freight forwarders if necessary.
Make sure you understand Norwegian product regulations, certifications, labeling requirements, and potential import restrictions or tariffs specific to your product category. Although much is similar to the rest of Europe, differences do occur.
Customs Clearance Process:
1. Customs value: Calculate the customs value based on the transaction value. Provide supporting documents like invoices and bills of lading to demonstrate the value. The customs value is the sum of the following:
- The price paid for the goods
- Insurance costs (if applicable)
- Packaging and similar expenses
- Fees, royalties, commissions, or similar charges (if applicable)
- Shipping costs
2. Duties and Taxes:
- Customs Duties: Calculate based on the HS code and customs value. Check for preferential tariffs under any trade agreements.
- VAT: Apply the standard 25% rate (15% for foodstuffs) on the customs value plus duties. Explore potential exemptions or reduced rates.
- Import Declaration: Complete the Single Administrative Document (SAD) form accurately, including shipment details, importer/exporter information, and goods description. Submit electronically through the Norwegian Customs portal or via an authorized representative (customs broker).
- Customs Clearance: Customs authorities will verify documents, potentially conduct physical inspections, and require payment of duties and VAT before releasing the goods.
E-commerce shipping from Netherlands to Norway
If a Dutch business with a webshop wants to sell products and ship them onto the Norwegian market, it can use the VAT On E-commerce (VOEC) agreement.
VOEC is a system that allows businesses to sell goods to Norwegian consumers for up to 3000 Norwegian kroner (NOK) without having to charge them VAT or duty.
This can be a great way to test the Norwegian market to see if there is demand for your products before you invest in setting up a local company.
Here are the steps on how to sell to Norway using VOEC:
- Register for VOEC with the Norwegian tax authorities. This process takes 2-3 days. Here is a video of how that works.
- Create a website for the Norwegian market where all prices are listed in Norwegian kroner (NOK).
- Clearly mark all shipments to Norway with the VOEC number.
Other things to keep in mind when selling products to Norway under VOEC-scheme:
- You can only sell certain types of goods using VOEC. For example, you cannot sell food, plants, seeds, weapons, or alcohol.
- You are responsible for making sure that Norwegian customers are not charged VAT or import duties.
- Norwegian consumers have a 14-day right to return goods. They are typically responsible for paying for the return shipping themselves.
- You can bundle multiple shipments together to reduce shipping costs.
VOEC is a great way for Dutch businesses to test the Norwegian market without a lot of upfront investment.
The video below describes the process. The use case is a Danish webshop selling to the Norwegian market, but the regulations are the same if that would be a Dutch company.
Why shipping EU to Norway is different than shipping within the EU
While both the Netherlands and Norway are part of the European Economic Area (EEA), which allows for the free movement of goods, there are crucial differences when shipping from an EU country to Norway:
Customs Declarations: Shipments from the Netherlands to Norway require customs declarations, even though both countries are in the EEA. This is because Norway is not part of the EU Customs Union.
Customs Duties: Some goods may be subject to customs duties when imported into Norway from the Netherlands, depending on the type of goods and their value.
Import VAT: Goods imported into Norway from the Netherlands are subject to Norwegian VAT, which is currently 25% (15% for food). This is separate from the VAT paid in the Netherlands.
Documentation: Additional documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, may be required for shipments from the Netherlands to Norway.
Cost Factors: What Impacts Your Shipping Budget
When shipping goods between the Netherlands and Norway for business (B2B), the choice of shipping modality depends on various factors, including shipment size, urgency, and budget.
The table below provides a comparison of the most relevant shipping modalities.
| Shipping Modality | Advantages | Disadvantages | Best Suited For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Road Freight (FTL) | Faster than sea freight for this route, door-to-door delivery | Less eco-friendly than sea freight, potentially expensive for very small volumes | Large shipments, time-sensitive goods | Full truckload, often a good balance of speed and cost for this distance |
| Road Freight (LTL/Groupage) | Cost-effective for smaller volumes, consolidated shipments | Slower than FTL, shared truck space | Smaller shipments | Less than truckload or groupage, ideal for optimizing costs when you don't have a full truckload of goods |
| Sea Freight (FCL/LCL) | Most economical for very large volumes, suitable for most goods | Slowest option due to distance, may require additional handling at ports | Very large volumes, non-urgent goods | Full or less than container load, prioritize cost savings over speed for this route |
| Short Sea Shipping (Ferry) | Direct connection between ports, potentially faster than road freight for certain routes | Limited to specific ports and schedules, may not be suitable for all cargo types | Specific routes between Netherlands and Norway, time-sensitive goods | Consider if your goods can be transported via ferry and align with available schedules |
| Air Freight | Fastest option, ideal for high-value or urgent goods | Most expensive | Urgent shipments, high-value goods, time-sensitive goods | Prioritize speed over cost for critical deliveries |
Currency considerations
A potentially important aspect of B2B transactions between the Netherlands and Norway is the currency difference. While the Netherlands uses the Euro (€), Norway has its own currency, the Norwegian Krone (NOK). The exchange rate between these currencies can fluctuate, potentially impacting your shipping costs and overall profitability.
It can be wise to keep an eye on the EUR/NOK exchange rate, especially if you have regular shipments. This can help you plan your payments strategically and potentially save on costs.
Norway's largest trading partners in terms of import value
| Country | Import Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Sweden | $13.50 billion |
| China | $13.17 billion |
| Germany | $12.22 billion |
| United States | $6.72 billion |
| Denmark | $4.97 billion |
| United Kingdom | $4.57 billion |
| Netherlands | $4.55 billion |
| Poland | $3.65 billion |
| Canada | $3.23 billion |
| France | $2.99 billion |
Source: UN Comtrade
Insurance and Risk Mitigation
Investing in comprehensive cargo insurance is highly recommended for this route. It provides financial protection against a range of risks that could occur during transit, such as:
- Damage: Due to rough handling, accidents, or adverse weather conditions.
- Theft: Especially for high-value goods or those susceptible to theft.
- Delays: Caused by unforeseen circumstances like port congestion, strikes, or natural disasters.
- Loss: In the unfortunate event of your cargo going missing.
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