Why the Netherlands Is One of the Best Countries for Dropshipping in 2026
The Netherlands offers a prime environment for e-commerce and dropshipping going into 2026. Virtually the entire Dutch population is online – internet penetration is near 98%, with 94% of people making online purchases in 2025 alone. This means almost 17.5 million Dutch consumers are shopping digitally, representing a massive market of tech-savvy buyers. E-commerce here isn’t a niche; it accounts for about 31% of all retail spending (around €36.5 billion) and is still growing year over year.
Dutch shoppers are not only numerous but also high-spending and quality-conscious. Over one-third of consumers (38%) now place orders above €50, favoring quality over bargain-basement prices. They’re also comfortable buying from abroad – 68% of Dutch shoppers purchase from international online retailers, seeking variety and competitive pricing. This openness is a boon for dropshippers worldwide, as Dutch customers readily order from overseas as long as the value is there.
Another advantage is the Netherlands’ world-class logistics infrastructure. The country serves as a gateway to Europe with the Port of Rotterdam (Europe’s largest seaport) and Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport enabling fast global shipping. Domestically, the delivery network is extremely efficient – PostNL boasts an on-time delivery rate around 98% and an average transit of just 1.1 days for local parcels. In practice, this means quick, reliable shipping to customers, which is crucial for dropshipping success. The digitally savvy population expects transparency and speed; indeed 84% of Dutch shoppers actively track their packages and over 50% prioritize free or clearly priced shipping when choosing where to buy. Fortunately, fulfilling orders in the Netherlands is smooth, thanks to highly integrated courier networks and the country’s compact size.
How Dropshipping Works in the Netherlands
Dropshipping in the Netherlands functions much like anywhere else: you (the seller) market products online, and your supplier fulfills each order by shipping directly to your customer. The key difference in the Dutch context is meeting local expectations and regulations. Here’s how the process works, with Dutch-specific considerations:
1. Setting Up as a Business
You can technically start a webshop in the Netherlands without immediately registering a company, but it’s highly recommended to register with the Chamber of Commerce (KvK) once you’re serious. If you’re regularly selling goods for profit, you are viewed as a business and a KvK number becomes necessary. Registering not only makes you legitimate in the eyes of the law, but also unlocks practical benefits – many wholesale suppliers require a KvK registration to give you trade pricing, and even payment providers like iDEAL won’t work with unregistered individuals. In short, if you intend to make dropshipping your career, a KvK registration and VAT number are must-haves.
2. Choosing Your Product Sourcing Model
As a Dutch dropshipper, you have two main sourcing approaches. One is to work with local or European suppliers (including wholesalers in the Netherlands or EU-based warehouses of global platforms). This gives faster shipping (often 1–3 days within NL) and no import hassles for your customers. The other approach is using international suppliers (e.g. from China), typically for a wider product range or lower base prices – but then optimizing how you ship to NL (using EU warehouses or fast shipping lines). In practice, many successful Dutch dropshippers blend both: they might list some items stocked in Europe for speed, and some shipped from abroad for unique variety.
3. Building a Dutch-Friendly Online Store
Whether you sell via your own website or a marketplace, tailor the experience to Dutch consumers. This means offering the payment methods Dutch shoppers trust – especially iDEAL, which accounts for around 70% of online purchase transactions. If you use Shopify or WooCommerce for your store, you can easily integrate iDEAL through payment gateways like Mollie or Adyen. Also consider having your website content in Dutch (at least for key pages) or very clear English, and display prices in euros with VAT included (Dutch shoppers are used to tax-inclusive pricing). Being transparent and consumer-friendly is vital, as Dutch buyers value trustworthiness highly. Clear communication about delivery times, shipping costs, and return policies in advance will help you convert more customers.
4. Processing Orders and Shipping
When a customer from the Netherlands places an order on your site, you forward that order to your supplier, who then ships the product directly to the customer. If your supplier is within the Netherlands or nearby, customers might receive their package the next day or within 2–3 days in many cases. If the supplier is abroad (say in China), delivery might take a couple of weeks unless you’ve arranged faster logistics. Many dropshippers mitigate this by selecting suppliers that have warehouses in Europe or by stocking a small quantity of fast-moving products in a Dutch fulfillment center. With EU warehouses, average delivery can be as fast as 3–7 days, whereas shipping from China might be 7–20 days. Always keep customers informed at checkout about the expected shipping timeframe. Additionally, ensure your supplier provides tracking numbers – Dutch consumers almost universally use parcel tracking and expect to see progress updates.
International Dropshipping Suppliers Offering Dutch Warehouse Options
One of the smartest moves for serving Dutch customers is to use suppliers that can ship from within the Netherlands or nearby in Europe. Local or EU warehouses mean much faster delivery and no surprise import fees, which keeps customers happy. Luckily, there are many international dropshipping suppliers – global and European – that offer Dutch warehouse stock or quick shipping to the Netherlands. Below are some of the best suppliers and platforms to consider:
1. VidaXL (DropshippingXL)
A Dutch-born company and one of Europe’s largest dropshipping suppliers. VidaXL specializes in furniture, home & garden, and DIY products. It was actually founded in the Netherlands and operates two large distribution centers in the country, enabling next-day delivery on many items. If your niche includes home furnishings or garden equipment, VidaXL is a top choice. Their catalog is huge (from budget furniture to higher-end items), so you’ll want to select products carefully for quality. Because VidaXL is so popular, their products are sold widely (including on marketplaces like Bol.com and Amazon) – meaning competition exists. Still, the combo of local stock and an easy integration via their DropshippingXL platform makes them a powerhouse supplier for Dutch and EU dropshippers.
2. BigBuy
BigBuy is a Spain-based wholesale platform, but it serves the entire EU with 2–3 day shipping to the Netherlands. They carry an extremely wide range of products – electronics, home appliances, sports gear, erotic items, you name it. BigBuy holds inventory in Europe and even offers well-known brands like Philips and Lego in their catalog. For a Dutch dropshipping store, BigBuy can be a one-stop source to populate many categories with fast delivery. Just be aware that because they supply many online retailers, you might find the same products sold by other Dutch webshops, so think about how to differentiate (through marketing or bundling) if you rely on BigBuy.
3. CJ Dropshipping (EU Warehouses)
CJ Dropshipping is a popular platform originally from China that now maintains multiple warehouses in Europe (including in Germany, UK, etc.). Through CJ, you can source millions of products at low cost from Chinese factories, but crucially, you can pre-stock items in their European warehouses for much faster local shipping. For example, CJ might list a gadget that ships in 2 days from their EU facility, versus 2 weeks from China. This hybrid approach (China sourcing + EU fulfillment) is great for testing products cheaply and then scaling in Europe with quick delivery. CJ’s platform integrates with Shopify/WooCommerce for automatic orders and tracking updates. It’s essentially a bridge between the low costs of China and the convenience of local shipping – highly useful for dropshippers targeting the Netherlands or any EU market.
4. AliExpress (with EU shipping) & Banggood
AliExpress is well known to most dropshippers – it’s a marketplace of countless Chinese suppliers. Dutch consumers themselves are very familiar with AliExpress; the site claims over 12 million users in the Netherlands who shop for bargains. If you source from AliExpress, consider using the “ship from EU” filter that many listings offer. Over the years, a lot of AliExpress sellers have started warehousing popular items in European countries (Spain, France, Poland, etc.) for faster delivery. By choosing products that ship from a Europe warehouse, you can often get items to Dutch customers within a week. Similarly, Banggood is another China-based retailer that has EU warehouses and is favored by dropshippers for electronics and gadgets. These options give you huge product variety and competitive prices, but remember to vet supplier reliability (check reviews and processing times) – and always communicate realistic delivery times on your store.
5. Spocket and Other Supplier Marketplaces
Spocket is a platform that connects dropshippers to pre-vetted suppliers in the EU and US, many of whom offer trendy products with quick local shipping. Through Spocket, you might find, for example, a Dutch supplier of eco-friendly home goods or a German supplier of pet accessories. The advantage is you can browse a catalog specifically filtered for Europe-based shipping. Other similar services include Syncee (with many Central/Eastern EU suppliers) and AppScenic. These act as directories/aggregators of global suppliers, and many have a good selection of “Made in Europe” or locally warehoused items. They often integrate with store platforms so you can import product listings easily. This route is excellent if you want unique products that aren’t over-saturated – for example, handmade Dutch fashion items or niche European gadgets – while still ensuring reasonable delivery times to your Dutch customers.
Top Trending Niches Popular Among Dutch Consumers
Success in dropshipping often comes down to selling products that people want and need right now. So, what niches are hot in the Netherlands as we head into 2026? Below we highlight some of the top trending niches and product categories among Dutch consumers. These are areas seeing strong demand and cultural momentum – golden opportunities for a new dropshipping store:
1. Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Products
The Dutch have a well-known passion for sustainability and environmental consciousness. Consumers increasingly prefer products that are eco-friendly, recyclable, or energy-saving. In fact, more than half of young adult shoppers in the Netherlands are willing to pay extra for sustainable products. This trend spans many categories: reusable household items (like metal straws, beeswax food wraps), solar-powered gadgets, ethically made clothing, and zero-waste lifestyle products are all in demand. Dutch brands like Susan Bijl (maker of ripstop nylon reusable shopping bags) are popular, and their success reflects a broader trend – eco-friendly bags, bottles, and home goods are gaining traction. If you can source green products (biodegradable materials, organic textiles, etc.), you’re tapping into a market that’s only growing. Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword here; it’s a selling point that resonates deeply with Dutch values.
2. Health, Wellness & Fitness
The health and wellness niche is booming in the Netherlands, aligned with a global trend of consumers investing in their well-being. In the Dutch market we see high interest in fitness gear, sports accessories, and health products. Two examples illustrate this: yoga is extremely popular (premium yoga mats and accessories are selling well – even €300+ high-end mats have buyers), and the country’s famous cycling culture means bike-related gear is perpetually in demand. The Netherlands is the #1 cycling country in the world, so anything bicycle-related – from stylish bike helmets and LED lights to pannier bags and child seats – finds a ready audience. In fact, outdoor and fitness products in general are trending upward. Home workout equipment (resistance bands, fitness trackers), running accessories, and even niche sports gear like padel tennis equipment are hot topics. (Padel, a racket sport, has seen a surge in popularity across Europe and the Netherlands is no exception – padel rackets and balls are a new niche to watch.) Don’t overlook the health food and beauty angle too: Dutch consumers lean into vitamins, vegan supplements, and natural skincare. Products like protein snacks (e.g. keto-friendly bars) and haircare brands (e.g. Gisou’s honey-infused hair oil, a Dutch product that made millions in online sales) show how wellness and beauty overlap as lucrative niches.
3. Home, Living & Garden
With more people shopping online for their homes, the home and living niche is thriving. In early 2025, online spending in the Home & Living category jumped 19% – a standout growth figure as people refocus on home improvements. For dropshippers, this niche covers a broad range: home décor (think Scandinavian-style lamps, wall art, indoor planters), small furniture, kitchen gadgets, bedding, and gardening tools are all viable. Dutch consumers love practical yet stylish products for their homes. Consider that many live in urban apartments – space-saving furniture or clever storage solutions can be hits. Gardening is also popular (especially as many have balconies or small gardens); items like vertical planters or smart indoor herb gardens appeal to the green-thumb crowd. Another aspect is the rise of personalized and artisanal home items – e.g. custom printed posters, handmade ceramics or vintage-look pieces are trending as people seek unique touches for their space. If your store can offer home goods that are functional, aesthetic, and maybe eco-friendly (like furniture made from sustainable wood or recycled materials), you’ll ride two trends at once.
4. Fashion and Apparel (Especially Niche or Sustainable Fashion)
Fashion is always a top e-commerce category, and in the Netherlands clothing and footwear are among the best-selling segments online. However, the trend within fashion is toward niche and sustainable brands. Dutch shoppers show growing interest in apparel that is environmentally friendly, ethically produced, or caters to specific lifestyles. For example, there’s a trend toward “slow fashion” – durable, high-quality clothing rather than fast-fashion throwaways. Also, certain niches like streetwear, modest fashion, or plus-size activewear can have dedicated followings. One very specific trend: festival fashion and cycling apparel (it might sound funny, but the Dutch love their festivals and their bikes!). If you can supply unique leggings for cyclists or funky festival outfits, you could tap into those subcultures. Keep in mind competition in general fashion is fierce (major retailers and brands dominate mainstream styles), so focusing on a niche or a story (eco-friendly materials, locally inspired designs, etc.) is key. The dropshipping model allows you to offer a wide variety of styles without holding inventory – just ensure your supplier quality is good, because Dutch customers will expect the clothing to match the photos and last through many wears.
5. Personalized & DIY Products
A noteworthy niche emerging is personalized products and DIY kits. Dutch consumers appreciate creativity and personal touch – this is evident in platforms like Etsy where many Dutch buyers purchase custom-made items. Trending examples include personalized wall art (such as prints of song lyrics or star maps specific to a date), custom jewelry, and engraved gifts. These items make great gifts, and the Dutch e-commerce market sees a spike around holidays for such products. Similarly, DIY kits (do-it-yourself) are popular as people look for hobbies and unique experiences – think along the lines of a kit for brewing your own beer, knitting your own scarf, or even the quirky Kintsugi repair kit (a Japanese art of repairing pottery with gold lacquer) which happens to sell well in the Netherlands. If you can source kits or customizable items (many print-on-demand services can dropship personalized mugs, shirts, photo books etc.), you tap into consumers’ desire for one-of-a-kind products. This niche ties back into the broader trend of seeking authenticity and uniqueness in what people buy.
High-Profit Dropshipping Products That Sell Well in the Netherlands
Picking the right niche is step one – step two is knowing which specific products within those niches are the real moneymakers. “High-profit” products typically mean items with healthy profit margins and steady demand. In the Netherlands, many of these are mid-range to premium products (since, as noted, Dutch shoppers are willing to spend for quality). Let’s explore some examples of high-potential products that are proving to sell well:
1. Premium Fitness Gear and Accessories
The fitness boom translates into strong sales for premium gear. A great example is yoga mats. While basic cheap mats exist, there’s a market for high-end, high-margin mats from brands like Manduka or Lululemon. In fact, a top-selling yoga product recently was the Manduka Pro extra-large mat priced around $300, indicating that dedicated yoga enthusiasts in NL are willing to invest in top quality. Other fitness items selling well include adjustable dumbbell sets, high-quality resistance band kits, and advanced massage guns for muscle recovery. These products often cost $50–$200 wholesale, allowing a good markup, and still undercutting local sports retail prices. Given the Dutch focus on health, stocking one or two “hero” fitness products like an innovative home workout device can pay off. Just ensure you can ship them cost-effectively (heavy items might need a local/EU supplier due to shipping cost).
2. Cycling and E-Mobility Accessories
We can’t mention Dutch commerce without cycling. High-end bicycle accessories are consistent sellers. Items like waterproof pannier bags (which can retail at €80+ for quality ones), smart bike locks, night safety gear (rechargeable lights, reflective vests) and child bike trailers are popular with the cycling community. E-bikes are extremely popular in the Netherlands; although selling actual e-bikes via dropshipping is challenging due to cost and shipping logistics, you can profit from the ecosystem around them. For example, e-bike battery replacement kits, fancy bike helmets, or phone mounts for bike handlebars see good demand. Another angle is electric scooters and their accessories, as urban mobility gadgets are on the rise. If you find a reputable supplier for e-scooters or hoverboards with the correct EU certifications, the margins can be significant on these (and Dutch city-dwellers are buying them). Always highlight the quality and any safety certifications on such products – Dutch consumers will pay more for trustworthy brands (like Xiaomi scooters or ABUS bike locks) and often search for those specifically online.
3. Smart Home and Consumer Electronics
The Netherlands has a tech-savvy population that eagerly adopts new gadgets, which means trending electronics can be high-profit items. Examples of recent hit products include instant print cameras (the nostalgia-fueled Polaroid and Fujifilm Instax have seen Dutch online sales in the millions) and smart home devices. Think smart thermostats (noting that a popular Dutch startup was Nest, later Google), Wi-Fi LED lighting kits (Philips Hue is Dutch-founded and hugely popular, but you can sell third-party smart bulbs), robot vacuum cleaners, and home security cameras. These devices often retail at a premium, but if you can source them wholesale or via dropship suppliers like BigBuy or China-based brands, you can undercut local electronics store prices and still enjoy a solid margin. Gadgets like a “ultra-light gaming mouse” or new wireless earbuds can also catch on quickly with younger consumers – these tech accessories often have high markups. Just ensure any electronics comply with EU standards (CE marking) – most established suppliers will handle this, and it’s worth mentioning compliance in your product description to build trust.
4. Home & Living Big-Ticket Items
As mentioned, more Dutch people are buying furniture and home appliances online, which opens the door for dropshippers to sell higher-ticket home items. Through suppliers like VidaXL or local wholesalers, you could list products like ergonomic office chairs, patio furniture sets, or premium coffee makers. These can sell for hundreds of euros each, meaning even a modest markup yields significant profit per sale. For example, a trendy Scandinavian-style armchair might wholesale for €150 and retail for €300+. If you can coordinate fulfillment so that shipping is fast (which is feasible if it’s shipped from a Netherlands warehouse), customers are increasingly comfortable ordering such items online. Another category is kitchen appliances: high-end blenders, espresso machines, or multi-cookers. Dutch households appreciate quality kitchen gear (evidenced by the popularity of brands like Philips and KitchenAid). Dropshipping high-end appliances is doable by sourcing from EU distributors – just be prepared to handle potential returns carefully. The payoff is that one sale can bring a large profit chunk. Keep an eye on local trends – for instance, air fryers became a hot item in recent years, and things like that often show spikes in Dutch e-commerce searches.
5. Luxury and Designer Products
While many dropshippers focus on budget items, there is a case to be made for selling luxury goods via dropshipping, especially in a wealthy market like the Netherlands. Platforms like BrandsGateway allow dropshippers to sell designer fashion (authentic high-end bags, clothing) on their stores. The Dutch have a healthy appetite for luxury fashion and accessories, and if your marketing is on point, you can find buyers for, say, a Michael Kors purse or a pair of designer sunglasses. The margins on luxury items can be excellent – a handbag that costs €200 wholesale might retail for €400–€500. Clearly, this requires a certain brand positioning for your store (you’d want a very polished, trust-inspiring website) and customer service to match. But it is an area to consider once you have some experience. Beyond fashion, consider collectibles or high-end hobby items. Things like rare trading card sets, limited edition figurines, or professional photography equipment are all expensive but sought after by enthusiasts. If you tap into a passionate community (e.g. selling high-end model train sets to hobbyists, or premium fishing gear), you might see fewer orders but very high value per order.
When selecting high-profit products, a good strategy is to use data: leverage product research tools or check platforms like AfterShip or Etsy trends for the Netherlands. For instance, one analysis showed top Shopify store products in NL included items like haircare products (Gisou brand) with monthly revenues in the seven figures, and niche B2B supplies like fluid control valves (from a store called Tameson) also doing over a million. The takeaway is that both consumer hits and specialized products can generate big revenue if you find the right audience. As a dropshipper, focus on products that you can sell for a premium because they’re unique, high-quality, or in short supply locally. And always test the market – you can list a few high-end items alongside cheaper ones and see how they perform. You might be surprised: Dutch shoppers are not shy about buying big-ticket items online as long as you provide the service and trust factors to back it up.
The Best Platforms for Starting a Dropshipping Business in the Netherlands
Choosing the right platform is crucial to launching your dropshipping business. You need a platform that supports your needs (integrating with suppliers, handling payments, catering to Dutch customers) and can scale as you grow. There are two main routes: build your own online store or sell on existing e-commerce marketplaces. Many entrepreneurs do both. Below, we’ll cover the best options for each route, tailored for the Netherlands:
1. Shopify – User-Friendly All-in-One Store Builder
Shopify is one of the most popular choices worldwide for dropshippers, and for good reason. It’s extremely beginner-friendly – you can design a professional-looking webshop with no coding, using customizable templates. For a Dutch market perspective, Shopify has some key advantages: it supports multiple languages and currencies (you could have your site in Dutch and English, accepting euros), and it has a massive app ecosystem including dropshipping integrations. Apps like DSers (for AliExpress), CJ Dropshipping’s app, or Spocket can plug into Shopify and let you import products in one click and automate order fulfillment. Payment-wise, Shopify integrates with providers such as Mollie or Adyen, so you can offer iDEAL, PayPal, credit cards, Klarna, etc. to your customers easily. Considering that Shopify and WooCommerce are cited as the most popular platforms for EU dropshippers due to their integration support and multi-language capabilities, you’re in good company if you choose Shopify. The downside is a monthly fee (and small transaction fee), but many feel the smooth experience and robust features pay for themselves once sales roll in.
2. WooCommerce (WordPress) – Flexible and Powerful
WooCommerce is a plugin that turns a WordPress site into a full e-commerce store. It’s an excellent platform for those who want more control and potentially lower costs (WooCommerce itself is free and open-source; you mainly pay for hosting and any premium plugins you opt for). In the Netherlands, WooCommerce is widely used by small and medium businesses, meaning there’s a local community and even locally developed extensions (e.g., Dutch PostNL shipping plugins, Mollie for payments, etc.). For dropshipping, WooCommerce has integrations or plugins for virtually all major suppliers too. You can use WooCommerce with DropCommerce, WooDropship, or official plugins from suppliers (like a VidaXL WooCommerce plugin exists). The major benefit of WooCommerce is flexibility: you can customize every aspect of your store if you wish, and you own your site completely. You can also optimize for SEO nicely (important for getting organic traffic in Dutch search results). The trade-off is that WooCommerce can be a bit more hands-on to set up than a hosted solution like Shopify. However, if you’re somewhat tech-savvy or can follow tutorials, it’s very achievable. And because WordPress supports multiple languages, you could integrate a plugin like WPML to have a bilingual site (Dutch/English), which might attract a broader audience. In summary, Shopify vs. WooCommerce often comes down to ease vs. flexibility – both are top choices for starting a dropshipping business, and each can be the “best” depending on your preferences. Many guides weigh them for dropshipping and conclude exactly this: you can’t go wrong, it’s about what fits you.
3. Bol.com Marketplace – The Dutch Amazon (Marketplace Option)
Bol.com is the largest e-commerce platform in the Netherlands, far outpacing Amazon’s local site in traffic and sales. It’s a household name that Dutch shoppers trust immensely. As a new seller, you can apply to sell on Bol.com’s marketplace, which essentially lets you list your products on their site (similar to selling on Amazon). The benefit is obvious: access to millions of active Dutch customers and the credibility of Bol’s brand. If you can get your products in front of Bol users, you don’t have to work as hard on attracting traffic – it’s already there. Bol.com supports a broad range of categories, and many dropshippers list items there. However, there are a few considerations: Bol will require you to meet performance metrics (fast shipping, good customer service). Using Dutch or EU suppliers is almost a must here, because Bol customers expect quick delivery (often next-day or 1-2 days). If you try to dropship from China on Bol.com with 2-week shipping, you will likely run into trouble with customer complaints and Bol’s seller ratings. Also, all communication on Bol is in Dutch, so you’ll need to handle customer messages in Dutch. On the positive side, Bol allows international sellers (recently they even opened to non-EU sellers), but you might need to register for VAT in the Netherlands to sell there. Overall, if you can align your operations with Bol’s standards, it can be incredibly lucrative – some sellers make it into the Twinkle100 list of top online retailers just by leveraging Bol’s platform. Remember that Bol.com’s success in NL is partly due to local touches like accepting iDEAL payments and their strong brand trust. When you list on Bol, you benefit from those factors automatically.
4. Amazon.nl and International Marketplaces
Amazon’s presence in the Netherlands (Amazon.nl) is growing but still not as dominant as in other countries. It’s now in the top five, with about €1 billion in sales, but ranks below Bol, Coolblue, and some local players. That said, Amazon is Amazon – it has huge resources and will continue to push in the market. Listing your products on Amazon.nl can give you exposure not just to Dutch customers but also to Amazon’s pan-EU customers if you enable European marketplaces. As a dropshipper, you have to be cautious with Amazon’s strict policies (technically Amazon FBA or FBM expects you to be the seller of record – many pure dropshippers avoid Amazon because shipping times and supplier invoices can cause policy violations). If you can secure inventory in advance or use Amazon’s own fulfillment (FBA), then it’s an option. But if you’re doing on-demand ordering from a supplier after a sale, meeting Amazon Prime speeds will be challenging. Therefore, many starting dropshippers stick to Shopify/WooCommerce or Bol, where they have more control. Other marketplaces worth mentioning: eBay.nl (small market share in NL but possible for niche products, with more lenient policies), Etsy (for handmade or custom items – if you create or personalize products, Dutch consumers do buy on Etsy, and it’s a solid platform for print-on-demand or craft supply dropshipping). Also, if your niche aligns, local classified platforms like Marktplaats (the Dutch eBay classifieds) could be used creatively to generate leads that you fulfill via dropshipping. But as a main platform, Marktplaats is more for second-hand selling.
Step-by-Step Plan to Start Dropshipping in the Netherlands in 2026
Starting a dropshipping business may feel overwhelming, but by breaking it down into clear steps, you can move forward with confidence. Below is a step-by-step plan tailored for launching a dropshipping venture in the Netherlands, updated for the latest trends and requirements of 2026. Follow these steps in order, and you’ll cover all the essentials from preparation to your first sale:
Step 1: Research the Market and Choose Your Niche
Begin with understanding what products are in demand in the Netherlands (refer back to the trending niches we discussed). Use tools like Google Trends, check Dutch e-commerce reports, and scout competitors. Identify a niche that excites you and has market potential, but isn’t overly saturated. For example, you might notice a growing interest in sustainable kitchenware or a lack of local sellers for a specific pet gadget. Evaluate if you can add value in that niche (better selection, localized marketing, etc.). Aim for a focused niche rather than a “sell everything” store – Dutch consumers appreciate specialist shops that cater to their interests. Once you have a niche idea, list 10-15 potential products that you could start with. Make sure these align with Dutch preferences (are they eco-friendly, high-quality, or unique?). This research phase is crucial; a well-chosen niche sets the foundation for success.
Step 2: Write a Business Plan and Take Care of Legals
It doesn’t have to be a formal 50-page plan, but do outline your business model. Decide things like: Will you target only the Netherlands or also Dutch-speaking Belgium (Flanders)? What are your pricing margins going to be? How will you handle customer service and returns? Concurrently, handle the legal basics. Register your business with the KvK (Kamer van Koophandel) if possible, especially if you intend to run this as a serious operation. While you can start without one in the very short term, having a KvK number lends credibility and is required to get accounts with many suppliers and payment processors. Along with registration, apply for a VAT number (BTW-nummer) – in the Netherlands, you’ll need to charge VAT to local customers and periodically remit it. The VAT process is straightforward once you’re registered. If you’re based outside the Netherlands, consult on whether you need to register for Dutch VAT or can use the IOSS/OSS schemes. The business plan and legal setup step might involve some paperwork and thought, but it ensures you start on a solid, compliant footing.
Step 3: Choose Your E-commerce Platform
As discussed in the previous section, pick the platform for your online store or sales channel. For most beginners, a Shopify store or a WooCommerce (WordPress) site is ideal. They are the top platforms in Europe for dropshippers due to their ease and integration capabilities. If you go with Shopify, sign up on Shopify’s website and go through their quick store setup wizard. If WooCommerce, you’ll need web hosting and a WordPress install, then add the WooCommerce plugin. In either case, set your store’s base currency to Euro and locale to Netherlands (this will help with things like default VAT settings and shipping). Alternatively or additionally, open a seller account on Bol.com if you plan to use the marketplace route. Bol.com will guide you through registration – note they will ask for business details (KvK, VAT) and verify your identity. Choosing the platform is a pivotal decision; ensure it’s something you find comfortable to use. You might even try free trials or demos of a couple of platforms before committing. Once chosen, proceed to customize the basics of your site: add a nice theme, create pages like “About Us” and “Contact”, and so on.
Step 4: Integrate Payment Methods and Dutch Essentials
Before adding products, get your store ready to accept money (that’s the whole point!). For a Dutch-focused store, integrate a payment gateway that supports iDEAL, as well as credit cards and possibly PayPal. Providers like Mollie or Adyen can be set up in minutes and will let your store process iDEAL, which covers the preferred payment method of over 70% of Dutch online shoppers. On Shopify, you might use Shopify Payments for cards plus a third-party app for iDEAL via Mollie. On WooCommerce, you can install the Mollie Payments plugin to get iDEAL, Klarna, Bancontact, etc., enabled easily. Also set up your shipping zones in the platform settings – define a shipping zone for the Netherlands (and perhaps Belgium, EU, etc. if you plan to sell there) with your chosen shipping rates. Many Dutch shop owners offer free shipping above a certain order value, so consider that as an incentive. Don’t forget to configure essential settings like tax: enable VAT and set it to 21% for NL (most platforms have an option to include prices with VAT on storefront, which is standard in Europe). Additionally, adjust the language if needed – if you plan to have your site in Dutch, you might need a translation app (Shopify) or a multilingual plugin (WooCommerce). Lastly, set up your store’s policies (templates for refund policy, terms and conditions, and privacy) – these not only build trust but in NL it’s expected to have them accessible. With payments, shipping, and site basics configured, you’re ready for the fun part: products!
Step 5: Find and Import Products from Suppliers
Now it’s time to fill your store with the awesome products you selected in Step 1. Sign up with the dropshipping suppliers or platforms you intend to use. For example, create an account on AliExpress, CJ Dropshipping, or Spocket, or reach out to that Dutch wholesaler via email to get a reseller account. Many suppliers have apps or plugins to streamline product import. If you’re using Shopify, install the appropriate app (e.g. DSers for AliExpress, CJ app for CJ Dropshipping, etc.). For WooCommerce, you might use a combination of importer plugins or manual CSV imports if a supplier provides a feed. Choose your initial product lineup carefully – perhaps start with 20–30 products that you have researched and that cover a range of subcategories or price points in your niche. When importing, localize the product listings: edit titles and descriptions to be appealing to Dutch customers (translate them into Dutch if you can, or at least correct any clunky English). Emphasize selling points that matter locally – for instance, if a product is eco-friendly or a top seller in Europe, mention that. Ensure the product photos are high-quality; replace any supplier images that look unprofessional. Set your pricing with a healthy margin, accounting for about 21% VAT within the price. Many Dutch dropshippers use psychological pricing (like €29.95 instead of €30). As you import, also note inventory and shipping settings: if you have multiple suppliers, set inventory to sync or update regularly so you don’t sell an out-of-stock item. At this stage, it’s wise to order a few sample products for yourself – have them shipped to you so you can check quality and packaging. This will help you answer customer questions and create your own product photos or even videos, which can set you apart from competitors.
Step 6: Set Up Order Fulfillment and Automation
One great advantage in 2026 is the availability of tools to automate your dropshipping operations. Within your supplier integrations or apps, configure automatic order fulfillment as much as possible. For instance, in your Shopify dropshipping app settings, enable features like “auto-forward orders to supplier” and “auto-update tracking”. This means when a customer buys on your site, the order details will go straight to the supplier to process, without you manually re-entering them. Similarly, set up email notifications to customers that include tracking links once available. If using multiple suppliers, clearly assign which products are fulfilled by which supplier – and ensure shipping settings reflect those (you might have one supplier shipping from NL in 2 days and another from abroad taking 10 days; in Shopify you can use profiles to manage this). It’s also recommended to integrate an order tracking plugin on your site so customers can self-service track their orders (AfterShip has a good one, for example). By automating these parts, you free up time and reduce mistakes. Another operational point: decide on your customer support channels now – will you use email support, a phone number, or a chat widget? For a one-person start, email is fine. Set up a professional email (like info@yourstore.nl) and have it easily accessible on your site. All these systems might seem tedious, but setting them up early means when orders start coming, you’ll handle them smoothly and impress customers with efficient service.
Step 7: Launch Your Store and Start Marketing
With your store stocked and systems in place, you’re ready to go live. Double-check everything: browse your website as a customer would (on desktop and mobile) to ensure the navigation, product pages, cart, and checkout all work correctly. Perhaps run a test order – place an order yourself using a test payment (or a discount to bring price to near-zero) to see that the order flows through to your supplier and that you receive the confirmation emails. Testing your setup is a crucial last step to catch any issues. Once all looks good, it’s time to open the doors. Announce your grand opening – at this point, your focus shifts to marketing. For the Dutch market, consider starting a social media page (Instagram and Facebook remain key channels, and TikTok is emerging quickly for younger demographics). Post content related to your niche to draw interest. If you have some budget, invest in targeted online ads – Facebook/Instagram ads can let you target Dutch users by interests (for example, people interested in yoga and living in the Netherlands for your yoga store). Google Ads can be useful too, especially Google Shopping, so your products show up in Google search results with images and prices when people search for them. Don’t forget local platforms: you might list a promo on Dutch deal forums or use influencer marketing by partnering with a Dutch blogger or micro-influencer in your niche. For instance, if you sell eco-products, a Dutch sustainable living blogger giving your product a shout-out could drive sales. Also, SEO (Search Engine Optimization): make sure your product titles and descriptions have relevant Dutch keywords, so over time your organic search traffic grows. In 2026, content marketing in Dutch (like a blog on your site talking about your product’s benefits or trends in your niche) can help establish authority and improve SEO as well. Marketing is an ongoing process, but starting strong with a mix of paid ads and organic efforts will help you get those first sales.
Step 8: Monitor, Learn, and Scale Up
Congratulations, your dropshipping store is live and (hopefully) getting orders! The journey has just begun. Now you move into the optimization phase. Monitor your analytics closely: Which products are getting the most views and which are converting into sales? Perhaps you’ll find that one particular item is a bestseller – consider focusing marketing on that or sourcing similar items to expand your offering. Conversely, if some products get no traction, swap them out for new ones (dropshipping gives you the flexibility to test and change inventory with low risk). Pay attention to customer feedback and support questions – they often highlight areas for improvement (e.g., if multiple people ask how to use a product, maybe your description needs more info). Ensure your order fulfillment is running smoothly; if a supplier starts lagging in delivery, address it quickly or switch to an alternative supplier. As you gain confidence and revenue, you can scale up: this might mean adding more products, exploring new marketing channels (perhaps try a Dutch price-comparison site or expand ads to Belgium), and possibly outsourcing tasks (hire a virtual assistant to help with customer emails or a freelancer to polish your Dutch translations). Also, keep an eye on seasonal trends – plan ahead for big shopping seasons like Sinterklaas/Christmas and Black Friday; these are huge in the Netherlands too, and having the right stock and promotions can make a big difference. Scaling might also involve expanding to additional sales channels; for instance, after succeeding on your own site, you could list some products on Bol.com for extra exposure, or vice versa. Always remember to maintain good relationships with your suppliers – as you grow, negotiate better pricing or faster handling, which improves your margins and service.
Each of these steps builds on the previous one. By following this step-by-step plan, you cover everything from compliance to marketing. Dropshipping in the Netherlands in 2026 is an exciting opportunity – the market is mature but still growing, and Dutch consumers are very receptive to online shopping when done right. As you implement these steps, stay adaptable. The e-commerce world evolves quickly, and the Dutch market has its nuances, but with your groundwork done, you’ll be able to adjust and thrive. Now, go ahead and put your plan into action – veel succes (much success) with your new dropshipping business!