Would you like to start dropshipping in the Netherlands? Dropshipping throughout Europe is now more accessible than ever, thanks to e-commerce platforms like WooCommerce.

With easy-to-set-up and manage plugins, you can sell your dropshipping products in the Netherlands. But before diving in, make sure to read this dropshipping Netherlands guide and develop a well-thought-out strategy.

Is dropshipping legal in the Netherlands?

You will be happy to know that dropshipping is legal in the Netherlands.

Dropshipping is a service where you simply help connect customers with products and suppliers; there is nothing illegitimate about it. However, there are some important things to keep in mind to ensure you are in line with all local legislation.

As with all other business models, you will need to, of course, pay taxes and register your company. If you are a Dutch business paying VAT, you must register with the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration. On the other hand, if you are a foreign organization with no permanent establishment in the Netherlands, you do not need a Commercial Registration.

As a general rule, certain products are best avoided when dropshipping, as you can inadvertently become involved in illegal trade. For example, never dropship knockoffs, fake brand products, or copyrighted items. Other items to be avoided include any weapons such as knives, hunting equipment, etc. Avoiding copyrighted or trademarked products can be challenging, but if you successfully sell these items, you could face legal action from the company in question down the road.

One essential step to prevent yourself from getting into hot water and avoiding any potential legal issues down the road is to ensure you are meeting the dropshipping requirements of suppliers and marketplaces such as eBay.

To ensure that you are running your dropshipping business in a completely above-board and legal manner, take time to research what is involved in setting up a dropshipping in Netherlands business and all paperwork required for registering and paying taxes. As well as doing your homework on local laws, once you start making a profit from dropshipping in the Netherlands, speak with a certified tax professional. Explain your business model, as they can help you structure your business in the best way possible from a tax perspective.

Why dropshipping Netherlands?

The Netherlands is a great place to start a dropshipping business, with easy access to a strong internet connection and all major payment options available. Remember also that you are not restricted to the local market but to customers worldwide.

With one of the highest standards of living in the world, the Netherlands offers an ideal market to start an eCommerce store. As a local resident, you will have a significant advantage with insights into what are the local trends and needs of potential customers and find the ideal products to sell through your dropshipping store.

The Netherlands’ geographical position means marketing and promoting your dropshipping business to your neighbours, including Belgium, Denmark, and France, is also a smart business move. Last on the list, but not least, is Germany the largest e-commerce market in Europe, right next door. Curious? Read our comparison of German marketplaces to see how to reach German buyers from your Dutch store.

Once you have gained some experience and are confident that you will profit from dropshipping in the Netherlands and Europe, why not consider even further markets, such as the United States?

How do you start dropshipping in the Netherlands?

Starting a successful dropshipping business is not achieved overnight. But by following the step-by-step process outlined below, you can become a dropshipper and set yourself up right from the beginning.

1. Choose a niche idea

When it comes to choosing what to dropship, take your time. Choosing the right business model and niche idea will be key to your success as a dropshipper. The general product types to choose from include:

• Hobbies and collectibles
• Sports and outdoor
• Clothes and accessories
• Home gadgets and decor
• Tech devices, gadgets, and accessories

When choosing which category you would like your dropshipping business to focus on, it is a good idea to be as niche as possible. Rather than just selling all types of products related to hobbies and collectibles, you can focus on more specific items, such as eco-friendly yoga equipment. Try to take into account what you will enjoy selling.

However, do not make this your primary consideration. What will sell well for the biggest margin is the number one factor when choosing a niche; in fact, to make your job easier, we have prepared a list of the best niches that are also profitable for dropshipping.

Your budget is also one of the most significant factors when choosing a business idea. Technically you could start a dropshipping business with just a few hundred euros. However, realistically you will need a relatively good budget, and most experienced dropshippers recommend starting with around €2,000, which is completely dedicated to testing a product out and finding the winning idea.

2. Complete a competitive analysis

You might be sure that you have a genius and unique idea for your dropshipping business but never be overly confident, especially when you are just a beginner. Carrying out an extensive competitive analysis to see what works well and is selling for others is a vital step not to be missed.

Avoid the most competitive products, such as jewelry and accessories. Instead, try to establish through your analysis where there is a potential gap in the market, something that solves a real-world problem.

3. Create an identity

Don’t just be a general store that sells lots of random products, have a very clear brand identity. You will need a domain name that is easy to remember, uncomplicated, and can be used across all your platforms, including any social media connected with your store.

Although setting up your online store with excellent branding, including logos, consistent text, coloring, and brand voice, will take more time and effort, in the long run customers are more likely to spend money with a legitimate store and recognizable branding.

4. Create your eCommerce store

In the past, most people would have either preferred or needed to outsource building an online store. However, nowadays, creating your eCommerce shop yourself is extremely straightforward with platforms like WooCommerce. You can choose between both free and paid plugins, depending on the point you are at with setting up your store.

Just starting out? Our guide on the top 5 WooCommerce plugins for beginners covers the complete starter setup every plugin in it is free.

5. Find reliable suppliers

After you have put all that time and effort into setting up your brand and eCommerce store, you will want to find reliable and reputable suppliers next. Problems with deliveries and damaged goods will impact your business’s reputation. It can not be overstated that the success or failure of your dropshipping business depends a lot on which suppliers you choose to work with.

Want a head start? See our overview of the best Dutch dropshipping suppliers with delivery times of 1-3 business days.

6. Import products with Woosa plugins

As mentioned above, WooCommerce offers great dropshipping plugins for WordPress. There are a variety of plugins to choose from with Woosa, each designed to benefit your Netherlands dropshipping store differently and they are all completely free. Compare them in our guide on the free dropshipping plugins for WooCommerce: products, stock and orders sync automatically, so you can focus on selling.

7. Optimize SEO on your dropshipping store

The eCommerce world is massively competitive, and your ranking on search engines is another important factor not to be overlooked. SEO or search engine optimization has become key for all businesses wanting to position themselves in the best way online. Thankfully you don’t need to be an advertising or marketing expert to understand and utilize SEO. With WordPress and similar platforms, you can easily improve your site’s SEO see our overview of the best WooCommerce plugins for the SEO tools to get started.

8. Take advantage of advertisements

Okay, so you have your well-designed and optimized dropshipping store up and running. Now you need the right people to see it and start shopping. To reach your target audience, you will need to invest a percentage of your budget toward advertising.

Conclusion

Dropshipping in the Netherlands is feasible if you want to set up your own legal eCommerce business. However, in order to be successful, utilize the best tools, including the free WooCommerce plugins by Woosa, and follow the steps outlined above.

FAQ

Is dropshipping legal in the Netherlands?

Yes, dropshipping is legal in the Netherlands. You do need to register your company, pay taxes and if you are a Dutch business paying VAT register with the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration. Avoid selling counterfeit, copyrighted or restricted products.

How much does it cost to start dropshipping in the Netherlands?

Technically you can start with a few hundred euros, since you hold no stock. Realistically, most experienced dropshippers recommend a budget of around €2,000 for testing products and finding a winning niche. The WooCommerce dropshipping plugins by Woosa are free, so software costs nothing.

What are the best dropshipping suppliers in the Netherlands?

Dutch suppliers like DropXL, Axihandel and Van der Meer deliver within 1-3 business days. See our full overview of the best Dutch dropshipping suppliers for the details per niche.

Do I need a company registration (KVK) for dropshipping in the Netherlands?

If you structurally sell products for profit, you are running a business and need to register with the KVK and the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration. When in doubt, consult the KVK or a tax professional before you start selling.

How do I start dropshipping in the Netherlands with WooCommerce?

Choose a niche, build your WooCommerce store, pick a Dutch or European supplier and connect it with a free Woosa plugin. Products, stock and orders then sync automatically the full step-by-step plan is in this guide.