If you are interested in moving from Singapore to the Netherlands, this guide is for you. Moving internationally can be exciting. But it’s also challenging.
This is why you must plan, organize, declutter, and relocate yourself and your belongings with utmost care. This comprehensive guide offers valuable insights and tips for a stress-free relocation experience.
As a reputable international moving company in Singapore, we’ve worked with thousands of customers.
Hence, we implore you to explore our ultimate guide to the most critical aspects of moving from Singapore to the Netherlands.
Getting the Basics
First things first, why are you moving to the Netherlands? When planning your move, you must consider the ten essential areas we will outline below.
Visa and Residency: Consider the visa type for your move. Ideally, you need a long-term visa, such as a work or student visa. Contact the Dutch embassy or consulate in Singapore for up-to-date information and guidance on the visa application process.
Housing: Housing is tricky in the Netherlands. So you should start your housing search well in advance. Use all platforms, including local real estate and online media. Before accepting housing, research and understand the local rental(or sales market), lease agreements, and tenant rights.
Banking: Opening a bank account is also crucial. There are many banks to choose from, such as Rabobank, AMRO, etc.
Healthcare: The Netherlands has a universal healthcare system based on mandatory health insurance. However, as an expat, you can obtain health insurance from a Dutch provider. Be sure to research insurance options, coverage details, and registration procedures.
Education: If you have kids, researching and securing appropriate education options should be a priority. Consider factors such as curriculum, location fees, and admission requirements. You should also know that the region has local and international schools.
Transportation: The Netherlands has a sound public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trains. You can also get around by bike, which is another popular mode of transport there.
Taxes: The Netherlands has a progressive income tax system. You’ll need to file a tax return every year.
Language: The official language of the Netherlands is Dutch. However, English is also widely spoken.
Culture: The Netherlands is also culturally diverse. People from all over come to live and work in the Netherlands.
Work: Depending on your career path, there are many job opportunities. You can get a feel of what it looks like by checking Indeed and Monster listings.
Research Moving Companies
A critical aspect of moving from Singapore to the Netherlands is how you’ll move your belongings. You need a moving company that specializes in international moves and has experience with the specific route from Singapore to the Netherlands.
That way, you can rest assured that your belongings are in capable hands and will arrive safely at your destination.
A professional moving company provides various services to support your international move. An international moving company can handle packing your belongings, ensure they are secured for the journey, and unpack them upon arrival.
Depending on the most suitable method for your move, they will also coordinate the shipping of your goods via air, sea, or land.
This includes guiding you in navigating complex custom procedures and ensuring compliance with both Singapore and the Netherlands. If your belongings also require temporary storage, they will provide that.
And they have insurance options to protect your belongings against unforeseen circumstances.
Finally, there are tons of moving companies in Singapore. You could seek recommendations from friends, family, and professionals. Look for a moving company like Sirmove that is FIDI-certified. At SirMove, you can look forward to prompt and quality service.
Preparing for the move: the perfect timeline for moving to the Netherlands from Singapore
You should allow six months of planning into the process of moving. This provides sufficient time to get the right international moving company in Singapore, secure your visa, search for a house, and enroll your kids in school, amongst other things.
Understanding the process of moving from Singapore to the Netherlands
Nevertheless, one critical aspect of your move is how you deal with customs and import regulations. This includes familiarizing yourself with the required documentation and paperwork and understanding restricted and prohibited items. That said, items shipped for personal use can be imported tax-free if you are coming from within the EU. Otherwise, you may pay VAT of 21%
Required documentation and paperwork
Be prepared to provide the necessary documentation for customs clearance when moving from Singapore to the Netherlands. This may include:
Valid passport and visa documents
Residence permit (if applicable)
Inventory list of all items being shipped; this should be as detailed as possible.
Proof of ownership for valuable belongings (e.g., receipts or invoices)
Certificate of change of address
A commercial invoice that breaks down the value of goods being transported
Shipping documents provided by the moving company
Remember to make copies of all these documents and keep them in a safe and easily accessible place during your move. Also, have digital copies saved on a secure device or in cloud storage as a backup.
Restricted and prohibited items
Avoid taking restricted or prohibited items into the Netherlands. These may include:
Firearms and ammunition
Narcotics and illegal drugs
Antiques and things that have art and cultural significance
Restricted or endangered species and their by-products
Counterfeit goods or items infringing on intellectual property rights
Certain types of food or plants, such as live plants, flowers, cuttings, woods and seeds
Hazardous materials
How to properly pack belongings for shipping
The best way to pack for your international move to the Netherlands is to have the best International Movers and Packers in Singapore handle your packing and unpacking. That said, here are tips to pack your belongings yourself:
Obtain Packing Materials: Gather the necessary packing materials, including sturdy packing boxes in various sizes, bubble wrap or packing paper, packing peanuts, packing tape, and packing labels.
Gather Sturdy Packing Boxes: Use new, sturdy packing boxes appropriate for the weight and size of your items. Avoid using damaged or weak boxes, as they may not provide adequate protection during shipping.
Wrap Fragile Items: Use bubble wrap or packing paper to provide cushioning and protection for fragile or delicate items. Wrap each item individually before placing them in the box. Also, remember to add additional padding layers or use specialized packing materials for fragile items. This will help to minimize movement and potential damage.
Securely Seal Boxes: Use packing tape to seal all openings of the boxes securely. Ensure to reinforce the boxes' bottom with extra tape for added strength. This will prevent the boxes from opening or breaking during transit.
Label Boxes Clearly: Clearly label each box with its contents and destination. Use waterproof markers or labels to ensure the information remains visible throughout shipping. It will help you and the movers appropriately identify and handle the boxes when they arrive at your destination.
Distribute Weight Evenly: Distribute the weight evenly within each box to maintain balance and prevent boxes from becoming too heavy or unstable. Place heavier items at the bottom and lighter items on top to avoid crushing or damaging the contents.
Consider Professional Packing Services: If you have delicate or valuable belongings that require extra care, leave that to your international moving company in Singapore. They have the expertise and specialized materials to pack your items safely and securely.
Shipping Belongings
Now, you need to choose your shipping method via air or sea. Air freight is faster but more expensive. It’s most preferred when you have time-sensitive or high-value items. Keep in mind that there are also weight and size restrictions as well. However, sea freight is preferred for moving belongings to the Netherlands from Singapore. Sea freight is best for transporting large items. But shipping will take longer. That said, your international movers will take care of choosing the right shipping company. They will help you figure out the cost and transit time well. That said, when moving to the Netherlands from Singapore, we offer different shipping options, including:
Shared container service: you’re charged for the volume you want to ship
Exclusive use container
Air freight shipping
The cost of moving from Singapore to the Netherlands
The cost of moving from Singapore to the Netherlands depends on various factors. This includes the volume of household goods to be shipped, moving services selected, and your exact origin in Singapore and destination in the Netherlands. With this in mind, our international moving company in Singapore can provide custom quotes for all inquiries. Get your custom quote today.
How long does moving to the Netherlands take?
Generally, door-to-door moving to the Netherlands may take as much as 18 to 23 for sea freight. In contrast, air freight takes about 1 to 3 days. As professional movers, we can provide estimates on the time. But these should only serve as a guide as they are not absolute.
Arriving the Netherlands
Schedule and confirm moving dates
Depending on the moving service you signed for, you can schedule pickup of your packed belongings by your International moving company. If they packed for you, then moving day will also involve pickup at once. They will pick up your belongings and drop them off at the shipping company’s warehouse. If you also like, they can pick it up after it arrives at your destination and have it delivered and unpacked in your new residence. In such instances, you must provide your contact information and recipient address in the Netherlands. Ensure that moving dates align with your travel plans and any other arrangements.
Track your shipment
Upon departure from Singapore, the shipping company will provide you with a tracking number. Use this number to track the progress of your shipment and stay informed about its whereabouts during transit. This will help you anticipate its arrival and plan accordingly.
Communication and updates during the relocation process
Maintain open lines of communication with the moving company throughout the relocation process. Stay in touch and provide any necessary updates or changes to your plans. Similarly, inquire about the moving company's communication protocols so you know how to reach them if needed.
Arrange for Customs Clearance
Upon arrival in the Netherlands, your belongings may require customs clearance. You may need to provide additional documentation or pay import duties and taxes.
Receive Delivery
Once your shipment clears customs, arrange delivery to your new residence in the Netherlands. Your international moving company may provide delivery options, or you may need to make arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions About Relocating to the Netherlands
How much money do you need to immigrate to the Netherlands?
The amount of money required to immigrate to the Netherlands can vary depending on various factors such as your nationality, purpose of immigration, and whether you have a job offer or financial means to support yourself. As a general guideline, the Dutch immigration authorities recommend having sufficient funds to cover living expenses, accommodation costs, and healthcare insurance. They may require proof of financial means during the visa application process.
Which European countries are the easiest to move to?
The ease of moving to a particular European country can vary based on factors such as immigration policies, job opportunities, language requirements, and quality of life. While it is subjective, some European countries known for their relatively straightforward immigration processes and employment opportunities for foreigners include Germany, Sweden, Ireland, and the Netherlands.
Do you need to speak Dutch to move to the Netherlands?
While knowledge of the Dutch language is a flexible requirement to move to the Netherlands, it can significantly enhance your integration and job prospects. English proficiency is relatively high in the Netherlands; many people speak English, especially in cities and international workplaces. However, for everyday interactions, learning Dutch can help socialize and navigate Dutch society more smoothly.
What jobs are in demand in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands has a strong job market and is known for its opportunities in various sectors. Some job sectors that often demand skilled professionals are technology and IT, engineering, healthcare and life sciences, finance and accounting, logistics and supply chain, and agriculture. However, the job market can change over time, so it's essential to research and stay updated on current labor market trends and opportunities in your specific field.
Comments