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Shipping Goods to Belgium from the USA

Belgium Import Regulations: A Complete Guide for U.S. Shippers

Belgium, situated in the heart of Western Europe, is a significant logistics hub and a key gateway to the European Union. Whether you're shipping from the USA for commercial or personal reasons, understanding Belgium’s import rules is essential for avoiding delays, penalties, or excessive fees.

This guide breaks down the documentation, taxes, product regulations, and customs procedures for importing to Belgium. It explains how a professional international shipping company can help you manage your international shipping costs and ensure affordable shipping.

Shipping to Belgium from USA

Key Facts About Importing to Belgium

As an EU member, Belgium adheres to the EU Customs Code and shares the same import framework as other EU member states.

Imports are subject to customs duties, VAT (21%), and possibly excise duties.
An EORI number is required for all importers.
All goods must meet EU product safety and labeling standards.
Relocating individuals can apply for duty and VAT exemption on used personal effects.

A licensed international shipping company can help ensure compliance with both EU and Belgian import rules while keeping your international shipping costs under control.

Step-by-Step: How to Import to Belgium

1. Designate an Importer of Record (IOR)

Every importer into Belgium must have a valid EORI number. For U.S. shippers:

Businesses can appoint a Belgian distributor or customs broker.
Individuals can rely on an international shipping company or customs agent to file customs paperwork and handle clearance.

2. Prepare the Required Documents

Belgian customs authorities require:

Commercial invoice (listing item description, quantity, HS code, and value)
Packing list
Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
Customs declaration (DAU form via PLDA system)
EORI number
Certificate of Origin (optional, but may qualify goods for tariff reductions)

For personal effects:

Passport or national ID
Inventory list
Proof of relocation (rental agreement, visa, or job offer)

3. Understand Duties, VAT, and Excise Taxes

As part of the EU, Belgium imposes:

Customs duties: Vary by HS code, generally 0–12%
VAT (21%): Calculated on the CIF value + duty
Excise duty: Charged on alcohol, tobacco, vehicles, and energy products

Goods under the de minimis threshold (€150 for B2C shipments) may be exempt from duties, but VAT still applies.

Your international shipping company can calculate all applicable charges in advance, providing you with a clear estimate of your international shipping cost.

4. Comply with EU Product Regulations

All products imported to Belgium must meet EU regulatory standards, which include:

CE marking for electronics, machinery, and toys
REACH compliance for chemicals
Energy labeling for home appliances
RoHS for electronic goods

Consumer goods must have labeling that includes:

Product description in Dutch, French, or German
Manufacturer/importer contact information
Country of origin
Usage instructions and safety information (if applicable)

Non-compliant goods may be rejected at customs or subject to fines.

Shipping Personal Effects to Belgium

If you're relocating to Belgium, you may qualify for duty- and VAT-free importation of used household goods and personal items under the Transfer of Residence exemption.

Eligibility Requirements:

You have lived outside the EU for at least 12 consecutive months
Items have been owned and used for at least 6 months
You are transferring your primary residence to Belgium
Goods arrive within 12 months of your move

Required Documents:

Proof of change of residence (e.g., work contract, home lease)
Inventory list
Customs declaration (DAU)
Belgian ID or visa

New or unused items may still be subject to duties and VAT.

Labeling and Packaging Regulations

Retail products must comply with Belgian and EU labeling laws, which require:

Product name and technical details
Safety warnings or CE mark, if applicable
Net content (for food and cosmetics)
Language: Dutch, French, or German
Manufacturer/importer name and contact information

Wooden packaging materials must comply with ISPM 15 regulations (heat-treated and stamped). Non-compliant materials may be denied entry or destroyed.

Who Can Help?

Work With a Belgian Customs Broker or International Shipping Partner

A licensed customs broker or full-service international shipping company can:

File your import declaration via the PLDA (Paperless Customs) system
Ensure documentation is correct and compliant
Handle duty and VAT payments
Arrange delivery within Belgium

This professional assistance ensures affordable shipping from the USA to Belgium with fewer risks and delays.

Final Import Checklist for Belgium

✅ Requirement	Applies to	Action
EORI number	All commercial importers	Must be obtained before importing
Customs declaration (PLDA)	All shipments	Must be filed electronically
Customs duty (0–12%)	Most goods	Based on the HS code
VAT (21%)	All goods	Calculated on CIF value + duty
Excise tax	Alcohol, tobacco, etc.	Charged in addition to VAT
CE and EU compliance	Regulated products	Mandatory for clearance
Multilingual labeling	Retail products	Must be in Dutch, French, or German
Transfer of residence exemption	Personal effects	Proof of move and inventory required

Conclusion: Shipping to Belgium from the USA

Shipping to Belgium is efficient and secure when planned properly. As part of the EU, Belgium adheres to structured customs and product rules, making documentation and compliance a top priority.

To reduce your international shipping cost and ensure affordable shipping, work with a trusted international shipping company that understands both U.S. export and EU import requirements—helping your shipment arrive safely and on time.