Setting Up Your First Bol.com Shop: A Beginner's Checklist
Everything you need to do before your first sale on Bol.com — from registration to your first shipped order.
Starting on Bol.com can feel overwhelming. There are accounts to set up, products to list, and rules to follow. Here's a no-nonsense checklist to get you from zero to your first sale.
Before you start
- KvK registration — You need a Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK) number. No exceptions.
- VAT number — Register for BTW at the Belastingdienst. You'll need this on every invoice.
- Business bank account — Keep personal and business finances separate from day one.
- Product sourcing — Know what you're selling and have stock ready before you list.
Step 1: Create your seller account
Go to partner.bol.com and register as a seller. You'll need your KvK number, VAT number, and bank details (IBAN). Bol.com verifies your identity, which takes 1-3 business days.
Step 2: Set up your shop profile
Add your company name, logo, return address, and shipping methods. Choose your delivery promises carefully — it's better to promise 3 days and deliver in 2 than to promise 1 day and be late.
Step 3: List your first products
Use Bol.com's existing catalog (EAN matching) when possible. If your product isn't in the catalog yet, you'll need to create a new listing with photos, descriptions, and specifications. Quality listings = more sales.
Step 4: Set up invoicing
Don't wait until customers start asking for invoices. Set up automatic invoicing now so every order gets a professional invoice from the start. Your future self (and your bookkeeper) will thank you.
Step 5: Ship your first order
When the first order comes in: pick, pack, ship, and confirm the shipment in the seller portal with a track & trace code. Congratulations — you're a Bol.com seller.
Common first-timer mistakes
- Pricing too low — Factor in Bol.com's commission (6-17%), shipping costs, VAT, and returns before setting your price.
- Ignoring returns — Bol.com buyers have 30 days to return. Budget for a 5-15% return rate.
- No invoicing from the start — This creates problems later when customers or the tax office ask for documentation.
