Companies declaring e-commerce consignments to Dutch Customs must include product identification codes in their declarations from 1 November 2026. The requirement applies throughout the European Union and is part of stricter information requirements for imported e-commerce goods.
A product identifier is a unique code for a product or batch. It helps Customs recognise and track goods more effectively. If an unsafe or non-compliant product is found in one consignment, similar goods can be identified more quickly.
The exact scope remains subject to change. Under current legislation, the obligation also applies to e-commerce consignments worth more than €150. The intention is to limit it to consignments of up to €150, but that amendment had not yet been formally adopted in early October.
For webshops, fulfilment providers and customs representatives, the quality of article data is crucial. Product codes must be passed completely and consistently from the webshop, PIM or ERP to the party filing the import declaration. Missing or incorrectly linked codes can delay the declaration process.