douaneinspecties

Douaneinspecties are inspections conducted by customs authorities to enforce import and export rules, collect duties and taxes, and prevent the movement of contraband and prohibited goods. They are part of the broader customs control system and may be carried out at border crossings as well as at inland locations such as warehouses, ports and airports. In the Netherlands, these inspections are performed by the Belastingdienst Douane, under national and European Union law. Across the EU, customs administrations conduct similar controls under the EU Customs Code and related regulations.

During douaneinspecties, authorities may perform documentary checks, evaluating declarations, invoices, permits and licenses; and physical checks, inspecting goods, vehicles or cargo. Inspections are often guided by risk assessment and may include sampling, laboratory testing, or scanning. Declarations, transit procedures, and payment of duties and VAT are reviewed or enforced as part of the process. In some cases, goods can be seized or cargo detained if there is suspicion of illegal activity or non-compliance; penalties may include fines, confiscation, or criminal investigation. Individuals and companies have rights to information, to provide necessary documentation, and to appeal decisions or seek administrative reviews where applicable.

The aim of douaneinspecties is to ensure legal trade, protect public safety, security, and health, and safeguard revenue. While inspections can affect shipment timelines, they are intended to facilitate legitimate trade by applying consistent standards and procedural fairness across borders.