Notice Period for Employment Contracts in Rotterdam: Exceptions and Calculation for Employer and Employee

# Notice Period for Employment Contracts in Rotterdam: Exceptions and Calculation for Employer and Employee The notice period forms an essential part of Dutch employment law, as laid down in article 7:672 BW, and is particularly relevant for Rotterdam employers and employees in sectors such as the port, logistics and maritime industry. For employees, the standard period is one month, unless the parties have agreed otherwise. Employers in Rotterdam must take into account increasing periods: one month in the first year, up to four months after nine years of service. Local collective labour agreements (CAOs), such as those for Rotterdam port companies, may contain deviating rules that are stricter. ## Calculation of the Notice Period in Rotterdam Practice The notice period starts on the first day of the month following the notice of termination. During the probationary period, it is only two weeks (art. 7:652 BW), which is convenient for temporary workers in the vibrant Rotterdam labour market. For fixed-term contracts, which are common in the flexible port and transshipment sector, the agreement ends automatically without notice. ## Exceptions and Shorter Periods for Rotterdam Companies - **Settlement agreement**: Rotterdam parties often agree on shorter periods, supported by mediation via the Juridisch Loket Rotterdam. - **Summary dismissal**: In case of urgent cause (art. 7:677 BW), immediate termination is possible, crucial in incidents in the port. - **Pension age**: Automatic end, with attention to Rotterdam pension schemes in the metal and construction CAO. ## Practical Tips for Rotterdam Employers and Employees Use the UWV notice period calculator or consult the Rotterdam branch of UWV WERKbedrijf at Schiedamseweg for personal advice. In disputes, the subdistrict court in Rotterdam-South or -North handles the case; it may adjust periods. Employers risk wage continuation payment for too short notice, while employees after two years are entitled to transition compensation. In Rotterdam CAOs such as the Port CAO, additional protections sometimes apply. Correct calculation prevents pitfalls in the dynamic Rotterdam economy and promotes smooth transitions. In case of doubt: engage a local lawyer via the Rotterdam Bar Association. (278 words)