Import Agreement Template for Netherlands

An Import Agreement sets out the legal terms between a Dutch company buying goods from a foreign supplier. It covers essential details like product specifications, pricing, delivery schedules, and payment terms while ensuring compliance with EU customs regulations and Dutch import laws.

Beyond basic trade terms, these agreements typically address key protections like quality standards, liability limits, and dispute resolution methods. They're particularly important under Dutch commercial law, which requires clear documentation of international trade arrangements. Good import agreements help businesses avoid customs delays, manage supply chain risks, and maintain smooth relationships with overseas partners.

Use an Import Agreement when starting to purchase goods from suppliers outside the Netherlands, especially before making your first order. This document becomes essential for regular imports, high-value purchases, or when dealing with complex products that require specific quality standards or certifications under Dutch law.

A formal Import Agreement particularly helps protect your interests when sourcing from new markets like Asia or the Americas. It's crucial for situations involving specialized shipping requirements, strict delivery timelines, or when Dutch regulations demand specific product documentation. Many Dutch companies implement these agreements during supply chain expansion or when shifting from informal to formal trading relationships.

• Basic Import Agreements: Cover fundamental terms like pricing, quantities, and delivery schedules - ideal for straightforward, single-supplier relationships
• Framework Import Agreements: Establish long-term relationships with multiple orders and flexible terms, commonly used by larger Dutch importers
• Industry-Specific Agreements: Tailored for sectors like food (with HACCP requirements), chemicals (with safety protocols), or electronics (with EU compliance standards)
• Distribution Import Agreements: Combine import terms with distribution rights for the Dutch market
• Quality-Focused Agreements: Emphasize detailed product specifications, testing procedures, and compliance with Dutch and EU standards

• Dutch Importing Companies: Businesses purchasing goods from abroad, ranging from small retailers to large manufacturers who need regular supplies
• Foreign Suppliers: Companies selling and shipping products to Dutch buyers, responsible for meeting agreed quality and delivery terms
• Legal Counsel: In-house or external lawyers who draft and review Import Agreements to ensure compliance with Dutch trade laws
• Customs Brokers: Professionals who handle import documentation and ensure agreements align with customs requirements
• Quality Control Officers: Staff responsible for verifying that imported goods meet specifications outlined in the agreement

• Supplier Details: Gather complete company information, registration numbers, and authorized representatives of your foreign supplier
• Product Specifications: Document exact product details, quality standards, and any required EU/Dutch certifications
• Trade Terms: Decide on Incoterms, delivery schedules, and payment conditions that work for both parties
• Compliance Check: Review Dutch import regulations and EU trade requirements for your specific products
• Risk Assessment: Identify potential supply chain issues and include appropriate safeguards in the agreement
• Internal Approval: Get sign-off from relevant departments before finalizing the agreement

• Party Information: Full legal names, addresses, and registration numbers of both importer and supplier
• Product Details: Precise description, quantities, specifications, and quality standards required under Dutch law
• Delivery Terms: Incoterms, shipping arrangements, and delivery schedules with clear responsibilities
• Payment Terms: Price, currency, payment method, and timing aligned with Dutch banking regulations
• Quality Control: Inspection rights, acceptance procedures, and remedies for non-conforming goods
• Governing Law: Dutch law application and jurisdiction for dispute resolution
• Force Majeure: Events excusing performance under Dutch commercial law

An Import Agreement differs significantly from an Agency Agreement, though both are used in international trade. While Import Agreements focus on the direct purchase and delivery of goods from foreign suppliers, Agency Agreements establish a relationship where a local representative acts on behalf of the foreign company in the Netherlands.

• Scope of Authority: Import Agreements deal with specific product transactions, while Agency Agreements grant broader powers to represent and sell on behalf of the foreign company
• Payment Structure: Import Agreements specify direct payment for goods, whereas Agency Agreements typically involve commissions and ongoing representation fees
• Legal Obligations: Import Agreements focus on delivery and product compliance, while Agency Agreements address marketing, client relationships, and territory rights under Dutch commercial law
• Duration: Import Agreements often cover specific shipments or periods, but Agency Agreements typically establish longer-term business relationships