ECS in the Netherlands

The European Export Control System (ECS) means that your export always starts with an electronic export declaration in the Netherlands too. In the ports, Customs then checks whether the goods actually leave the EU. In Dutch ports, this has meant two extra Customs obligations since 31 January 2010:

As soon as the shipment arrives at the sea terminal from the hinterland, the terminal must submit an electronic arrival at exit.
As soon as the ship leaves the port with the cargo onboard, the shipping company/shipbroker must submit an electronic exit manifest.

After the arrival at exit and the exit manifest have been received, Customs directly sends you as the exporter/forwarder a confirmation of exit. Your export declaration is thereby validated and your administration correct.