Can Supply Chain Consultants Use DAFT? DAFT Eligible
Yes, supply chain consultants can use DAFT. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) allows US citizens to start a business in the Netherlands, and supply chain consulting is an especially strong fit. The Netherlands is one of Europe's biggest logistics hubs, with the Port of Rotterdam (Europe's largest), Schiphol Airport, and a deeply embedded logistics culture.
Supply chain consulting from the Netherlands puts you at the center of European trade. You can advise companies on procurement, logistics optimization, inventory management, and supply chain resilience from one of the best-connected countries on the continent.
DAFT Eligibility for Supply Chain Consultants
Status: DAFT Eligible
Supply chain consulting is well-suited for DAFT. You're delivering advisory and analytical services as an independent business.
Key points:
- Mix of remote advisory and on-site work possible
- No special licensing required in the Netherlands
- Dutch market demand: High
- Typical income range: €55,000-€120,000/year
Business Structure Options
Recommended: Eenmanszaak (Sole Proprietorship)
Simplest structure. You are personally liable. Most DAFT applicants start here.
Most supply chain consultants on DAFT start with an Eenmanszaak. It's straightforward and lets you start taking on clients quickly.
Other Options
BV (Private Limited Company) Limited liability but requires €0.01 capital and notary. More complex setup. Could make sense if you're working with large enterprise clients or handling procurement with significant contract values.
Registration process:
- Apply for DAFT residence permit
- Register with KVK (Chamber of Commerce)
- Receive your KVK number and start operating
Setting Up Your Supply Chain Consulting Business
Step 1: Define Your Services Clearly define what services you'll offer. For supply chain consultants, this typically includes:
- Supply chain strategy and network optimization
- Procurement and sourcing advisory
- Logistics and distribution analysis
- Supply chain risk assessment and resilience planning
Step 2: KVK Registration Register your business with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce. You'll need:
- Valid residence permit (or proof of DAFT application)
- Proof of address in the Netherlands
- Description of your business activities
- €75 registration fee
Step 3: Tax Registration After KVK registration, you'll automatically be registered with the Belastingdienst (Dutch tax authority) for:
- Income tax
- VAT (BTW) - you may be exempt if under €20,000/year
Common Challenges & Solutions
Challenge: Credibility in the European supply chain market Solution: US supply chain experience is genuinely valued in Europe, especially for companies with transatlantic operations. Certifications like APICS CSCP or CPSM are recognized internationally. Your understanding of US customs, FDA requirements, or other regulatory frameworks is a differentiator.
Challenge: Understanding European logistics regulations Solution: Take time to learn EU customs procedures, Incoterms in practice, and European transportation regulations. The Netherlands has excellent industry associations and training programs. This knowledge combined with your US background makes you uniquely valuable for cross-border supply chain work.
Challenge: VAT for international clients Solution: B2B services to non-EU clients are zero-rated for Dutch VAT. Keep good records.
Income & Tax Considerations
Expected income: €55,000-€120,000/year
Tax obligations:
- Dutch income tax (progressive rates, 36-49%)
- US tax filing required (as a US citizen)
- Foreign Earned Income Exclusion may apply
- Tax treaty between US and Netherlands prevents double taxation
VAT (BTW):
- Services to US/non-EU clients: 0% (reverse charge)
- Services to Dutch clients: 21% VAT
- Small business exemption if under €20,000/year
See our US Taxes While Living in Netherlands guide.
Finding Clients as a Supply Chain Consultant
International clients:
- Maintain existing US client relationships
- Join consulting networks and industry associations like ASCM or CSCMP
- Offer cross-border supply chain advisory for companies with US-EU operations
- Build case studies showing measurable supply chain improvements
Dutch clients:
- Rotterdam's port ecosystem has massive demand for supply chain expertise
- Dutch flower auctions, food logistics, and FMCG companies are world leaders
- Eindhoven's high-tech manufacturing sector (ASML, NXP) needs supply chain optimization
- The Netherlands is home to European distribution centers for many US companies
Best practice: Start DAFT with existing clients or committed projects. This provides income stability while you build your Dutch network. The Netherlands' position as a logistics hub means local clients will value your US supply chain knowledge for their transatlantic operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I work for US companies as a supply chain consultant on DAFT? A: Yes, you can work as an independent contractor for US companies. You bill them as a Dutch business, which is a common setup for DAFT consultants.
Q: Do I need Dutch clients to qualify for DAFT as a supply chain consultant? A: No, DAFT does not require Dutch clients. Many supply chain consultants on DAFT work primarily with US or international clients.
Q: Is the Netherlands really that important for supply chains? A: Yes. The Port of Rotterdam is Europe's largest port, and Schiphol is a major cargo hub. The Netherlands consistently ranks among the top countries globally for logistics performance. Being here gives you direct access to one of the world's most important supply chain ecosystems.
Related Professions
If supply chain consultant isn't quite right for your situation, consider these related professions that also work with DAFT:
- Can Logistics Consultant Use DAFT?
- Can Business Consultant Use DAFT?
- Can Management Consultant Use DAFT?
Next Steps
- Evaluate your situation - Do you have clients? Income? A viable business plan?
- Read the complete DAFT guide - Understand all requirements
- Prepare your documents - Start the apostille process early
- Plan your timeline - Most people need 3-6 months to prepare
Digital Guide — $99
We're not immigration lawyers—just Americans who did this. Requirements change, so verify with official sources.