The Netherlands adds a refundable deposit to many drink cans and plastic bottles. The statiegeld logo identifies participating packaging, while return machines read the barcode and check the container's shape.
The value in the shopping bag
Look for the statiegeld logo
Not every container in your luggage belongs to the Dutch system. Check for the deposit logo and keep the label attached. Statiegeld Nederland also provides an EAN lookup based on the 13-digit number beneath the barcode.
Do not flatten your fifteen cents
The reverse-vending machine checks barcode, weight and shape. A badly crushed can or bottle may no longer be recognized. Keep empties reasonably intact and, where possible, leave the cap on the bottle.
A return point can pay or donate
Larger supermarkets and staffed motorway service stations are standard paying return points. Other voluntary collection points may choose to donate the deposit instead of paying it back, so read the sign before feeding in a bag of containers.
The receipt is the bridge back to money
Supermarket machines commonly issue a voucher after the return. Take it to the checkout and use or redeem it according to that store's process. The empty container becomes money only after the final receipt step.
Glass and crates can follow another loop
Reusable beer bottles and crates can have their own deposit arrangements. Check the product and return location rather than applying the EUR 0.15 can rule to every piece of drink packaging.