Customs
Our own in house customs teams manage handling your customs clearance, from general customs entries to consultancy on every scale.
Customs Clearance
Mainfreight is a full-service, AEO-certified customs expert with global experience in customs clearance. From import and export declarations to transit documents - our specialists are there for you.
With three in-house customs offices in the Netherlands ('s-Heerenberg, Rotterdam and Schiphol) and a professional declaration system, we can act quickly and correctly, regardless of where your shipment is located.
With three in-house customs offices in the Netherlands ('s-Heerenberg, Rotterdam and Schiphol) and a professional declaration system, we can act quickly and correctly, regardless of where your shipment is located.
AEO-certified: certainty and speed
Mainfreight is proud of its AEO (Authorised Economic Operator) certification. This offers our customers important advantages:
• Fewer physical and document checks
• Faster customs clearance
• Reliable partner status in the chain
Partnering with an AEO-certified party not only increases efficiency, but also security within your supply chain.
Latest News
European Union Deforestation-free Regulation (EUDR)
From 30 December 2025, the European Union Deforestation-free Regulation (EUDR) will come into force. For small and micro businesses (such as sole traders), which were registered with the Chamber of Commerce no later than 31 December 2020, the rules will take effect on 30 June 2026. This regulation applies to companies trading in timber, beef, cocoa, coffee, oil palm, rubber, soy and derived products.
Click here for more information on EUDR
Click here for more information on EUDR
Our customs services
We handle all types of customs declarations, including:
Import declaration (IM)
For officially importing goods into the EU. We ensure correct handling of import duties, VAT and any controls.
Export declaration (EX)
Required when exporting goods outside the EU. We ensure prompt release and complete export documentation.
Transit declaration (T1/T2/T2L(F))
For transit of goods through the EU to a third country. We provide the transit document and proper guidance.
Customs warehousing (IM7)
Temporary storage of non-EU goods without direct import duties. Ideal for stock management or re-export.
Preferential and non-preferential certificates of origin
Such as EUR.1 or a certificate of origin. Allows you to benefit from lower import duties within existing trade agreements. We arrange the correct application and documentation.
Full customs clearance
We offer full customs expertise under one roof. From the preparation and filing of declarations to strategic advice, supply chain optimisation and container gas measurements - we are fully in control of the entire process.
Experienced customs specialists
Our specialists have more than 20 years of experience in customs legislation and sector-specific issues. Thanks to their expertise, you are assured of compliance according to the highest European standards.
Digital customs solutions
Our advanced IT systems give you 24/7 visibility and control over your customs processes. We remain at the forefront of digital innovations to ensure efficiency, transparency and security.
Direct Representation - your customs matters in trusted hands
As a reliable partner, we take care of all customs formalities for you. Do you work with another carrier? No problem - even then we are there for you. To act on behalf of your company, all we need is an Authorisation for Direct Representation (DV/POA).
Download
Authorisation Form Direct Representative
Download
Formulier Directe Vertegenwoordiging
Download
Vollmacht Form der Direkten Vertretung
Checklist for Commercial Invoice
Before you book a shipment, it is important to check whether your invoice and packing list comply with all customs requirements. You can use the checklist below to ensure that all required information is included.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have an EORI-number?
Any company that imports or exports goods for which documents are required, must have an EORI-number that
is part of all customs declarations. It is easy and free to request through your local government. You need an EORI-number even when your customs clearances are done by a third party.
is part of all customs declarations. It is easy and free to request through your local government. You need an EORI-number even when your customs clearances are done by a third party.
Do you know your commodity codes?
Customs uses commodity codes or the European HScode (Harmonized System) to classify products. With this
code in your customs clearances, customs know:
• What products you export/import
• The duty
The commodity code must be at least eight digits long.
code in your customs clearances, customs know:
• What products you export/import
• The duty
The commodity code must be at least eight digits long.
What information must be provided?
Customs needs to know what is in the shipment and this needs to be exactly the same as the information noted on the documentation:
• Name and address of the recipient and sender
• Phone number and email of the recipient and sender
• Description of the goods
• Sales value of the products and currency
• Packaging details
• Weight and dimensions
• Commodity / HS-codes
• Country of origin (where the goods are made)
• EORI-number
• Incoterm
A commercial invoice and packing list must be sent with each shipment. Mainfreight needs an authorization if we can make the documents for your shipments on your behalf. Other documents or certificates may also be required, depending on the type of goods (HACCP goods for example).
• Name and address of the recipient and sender
• Phone number and email of the recipient and sender
• Description of the goods
• Sales value of the products and currency
• Packaging details
• Weight and dimensions
• Commodity / HS-codes
• Country of origin (where the goods are made)
• EORI-number
• Incoterm
A commercial invoice and packing list must be sent with each shipment. Mainfreight needs an authorization if we can make the documents for your shipments on your behalf. Other documents or certificates may also be required, depending on the type of goods (HACCP goods for example).
Which Incoterms apply to me?
Incoterms ensure that both the buyer and the seller know what their obligations, costs and risks are.
Click here for information about Incoterms.
Click here for information about Incoterms.
Questions about customs matters?
Our specialists are ready to discuss your issue and offer a suitable solution.
Get in touch
