Resolve customs problems, avoid costly penalties and protect your supply chain. As a Customs lawyer firm, NICOLAS Advocaat specialise in EU customs law, customs investigations, appeals and compliance for importers, exporters and logistics operators.
- Customs dispute resolution & litigation
- Customs compliance, AEO & internal audits
- Tariff classification (HS code), valuation & BTI
- Emergency help for seized goods at Rotterdam & Schiphol
Common issues we handle: customs penalties, incorrect customs declarations, tariff misclassification, customs duty disputes, customs investigations and cross-border export controls.
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Quick facts
Service: Customs law Netherlands & EU
Languages: English & Dutch
Locations: Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht, Eindhoven (onsite & remote)
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Customs Law Training: We also provide professional training in EU and Dutch customs law for businesses, in-house legal teams, and logistics professionals. Our training covers customs compliance, practical case studies, and updates on customs law to help your organisation stay compliant and efficient.
In addition to legal representation, our firm also provides professional training in customs law for companies, in-house teams and logistics professionals. We help your staff understand EU customs regulations, Dutch customs procedures, compliance requirements and practical case studies to reduce risks and improve efficiency.
What is a customs lawyer and when to hire one?
A customs lawyer advises on customs law in the European Union and the Dutch customs code. They represent businesses and individuals in customs investigations, appeals, and litigation. Hire a customs lawyer if your goods are seized, you receive a customs penalty, or you need to ensure compliance with EU customs regulations.
When to contact us
- Your shipment is held or seized by customs
- You received a customs penalty or reassessment
- You need a Binding Tariff Information (BTI) or origin determination
- You want to prepare for a customs audit or apply for AEO
Our Customs Law Services
Customs disputes & litigation
Appeals against Dutch customs decisions, representation before administrative courts, and recovery of wrongly paid duties.
Customs investigations & audits
Defense during customs investigations and audits by Dutch Customs and EU authorities.
Tariff classification, valuation & BTI
Binding Tariff Information requests, HS code classification, customs valuation disputes and origin of goods advice.
Customs compliance & AEO
Design and implementation of compliance programs, AEO application support and internal customs audits.
Customs duty & VAT advice
Practical guidance on import duties, VAT treatment on imports and customs law in taxation.
Emergency seized goods assistance
Fast intervention when goods are detained at the Port of Rotterdam, Schiphol Airport or other Dutch entry points.
Customs Law Training
We also provide professional training in EU and Dutch customs law for businesses, in-house legal teams, and logistics professionals. Our training covers customs compliance, practical case studies, and updates on customs law to help your organisation stay compliant and efficient.
Why choose our customs law firm?
- Specialised customs & international trade lawyers
- Practical, business-focused legal solutions
- Proven track record with customs appeals and recoveries
- English-speaking team for international clients
- Local presence: Rotterdam & Amsterdam experience
Frequently asked questions ( FAQ)
What does a customs lawyer do?
They advise on and litigate issues related to customs law, including appeals, compliance and representations before customs authorities.
How do I appeal a customs fine in the Netherlands?
Appeals follow strict deadlines. We prepare and file objections and represent clients in administrative proceedings and courts.
What is customs duty?
Customs duty is a tax on imports into the EU. It depends on HS code, origin and customs valuation.
What is the difference between a customs lawyer and a tax lawyer?
Customs lawyers focus on customs duties, regulations and trade; tax lawyers focus on taxes such as corporate tax, income tax and VAT planning.
Contact your customs lawyer — Get immediate help
If you have a customs problem, time is often limited. Send us the customs decision, shipping documents, and commercial invoices — we will review and advise.
NICOLAS Advocaat • Customs & International Trade Lawyers — Serving clients across the Netherlands.