Before you go shopping for your Christmas tree in the Netherlands, it’s important to think about how to get it home safely. To avoid being fined for causing dangerous situations on Dutch roads, let’s dive into ways you can transport a Christmas tree.

Transporting a Christmas tree in the Netherlands

Just like any country, the Netherlands has traffic rules and regulations to ensure that drivers are travelling safely on the roads. If the way you have chosen to move your Christmas tree is unsafe, you could get fined. Whether it’s by car, trailer or bicycle, here are a few things to keep in mind when transporting a Christmas tree home. 

What is the best way to transport a Christmas tree with a car?

Trees come in various sizes, some much larger than others. If you plan on getting a big tree, it is best to use a trailer. You can also place the tree on a roof rack or just on top of the car, but it is important that you tie it down properly with tension straps to ensure it doesn’t shift while driving. Another possibility is to have the tree in the car with you, but if the car is too small or the tree too big, this may not work.

Can you transport a Christmas tree in a car with the tailgate open in the Netherlands?

If your Christmas tree is a bit too big to sit inside the car completely, you can drive with the tailgate partially open. However, there are certain conditions that you should follow to avoid a traffic fine and any dangerous situations. 

If the tree mostly fits and you have the top sticking out the window, remember that trees and other objects being transported by cars may protrude no more than 20 centimetres from the side of the car. According to Dutch insurance company ANWB, the tree is also not allowed to protrude more than 1 metre at the front and back of the car - this applies with a partially open tailgate as well. It is also important that the tree doesn’t obstruct the view of the licence plate, tail lights or indicators.

Can I get a fine for transporting a Christmas tree by car in the Netherlands?

You are allowed to transport a Christmas tree by car in the Netherlands. However, if you do it incorrectly or in a manner that puts you or others at risk, then you could receive a fine from the police. 

A tree sticking out more than 1 metre in front or behind your car could earn you a fine of 160 euros (not including the 9 euro administration fee). If it protrudes even further, reaching 1,75 metres, you can expect to fork out 240 euros in fines. In a situation where the licence plate is obscured, you could owe 160 euros.

Can I get a fine for cycling with a Christmas tree in the Netherlands?

There is no traffic rule saying you cannot transport a Christmas tree by bicycle in the Netherlands. Although, it is important to note that it is forbidden to cycle in a way that causes danger on the roads or that obstructs traffic. So, if you are cycling with a Christmas tree, it would be best to do so with a bakfiets or ensure that you are doing so safely and without causing any obstructions for yourself or others.

Enjoy your Christmas tree during the holidays

After finally getting your chosen Christmas tree home, you can finally do the fun part: decorating it! Once the holidays are over and the presents have all been removed from under the tree, you might be wondering what to do with the Christmas tree. Check out our handy guide on how to dispose of your Christmas tree in the Netherlands.