Establishing your business

Are you considering setting up your business in the port of Amsterdam? Or do you want to expand your existing business? Read why the port of Amsterdam is the ideal location for you and what you can expect from us.

Why the Amsterdam port?

Port of Amsterdam's ambition is to be a leading European port. A port at the forefront of the transition to a sustainable society. We are working towards a climate-neutral port in 2050.

We are doing this by:

Allowing employment to grow sustainably.
Allowing companies space to do business and grow sustainable.
Creating a future-proof infrastructure.

What can you expect from us?

An establishment or expansion process is not a daily occurrence. We will guide you step by step with the right advice and solutions. Broadly speaking, your establishment or expansion process will consist of four steps in the coming period.

Step 1: Orientation and exploring possibilities

For orientation and exploring possibilities, please contact one of our commercial managers.

Together we will explore whether an establishment, change, or expansion is possible.

Step 2: Working out wishes and needs

We will work out the wishes and needs together. We look at the possibilities of lease or sublease, the conditions, and financial feasibility.

Once the terms and conditions are set together, we will come to an (optional) agreement.

Step 3: Negotiation and agreement

In this phase, we make clear agreements with each other about conditions and prices. We come to an agreement in a sublease or rental contract.

We also do preparatory work for building plans, permits, and facilities.

Our team of experts can advise and help you get in touch with the right advisors.

Step 4: Formalisation and realisation

Once the agreement has been signed, the implementation phase begins. Above all, do not forget to apply for the necessary permits on time. This often requires supporting reports on environment, soil, acoustics or spatial planning.

We recommend calling in a good advisor, to prevent any surprises later on. Has everything been taken care of? The construction can start!

The established companies

The Amsterdam port area is home to more than 1,400 businesses and industries. Together they account for €7.2 billion in added value and provide more than 68,000 jobs in the North Sea Canal area. Would you like to know which companies have already chosen for the Amsterdam port?

See all companies in our business directory

What permits are needed?

Do you have plans to establish a company in the port area? Or do you want to expand an existing company or develop other activities? If so, check what permissions and permits you will need to fill out at the earliest possible stage.

We would like to be your partner. We can help and give advice by indicating the steps required in a permit process, where necessary. For example, by explaining procedures and advising on the use of experts. We can also share our experiences or bring you into contact with other companies in the port.

You can contact the ODNZKG or a designated advisor to test the permit application, advice on the content, or progress of procedures.

Guide permit application (pdf)

How does sublease or rent work?

The territories in the port are leased and leasehold is given out by Port of Amsterdam. Looking for information about the way in which land is issued, land policy, and soil decontamination policy? Or would you like to see new and old rental and ground lease conditions? You will find them in this handy overview.

Overview land policy and conditions

Utilities and safety

It would be favourable if you would inform yourself about the facilities in the port on time, such as:

Corporate social responsibility and Integrity

It is important to us that our customers fit into our Strategy 2021-2025, share our ambitions regarding sustainability, are honest, and act with integrity. Because of this, it is standard practice to discuss these topics when companies want to establish or expand their business in the Amsterdam port. Want know more? Reach out your contact person at Port of Amsterdam.