Working in a warehouse in Germany or the Netherlands can help you save several hundred euros a month. However, your earnings are not the only factor that matters. Accommodation, transport and everyday shopping costs also play an important role. If you want to know how to save money while working in Germany or the Netherlands, start by planning your budget carefully. Extra pay, tax refunds and the way you manage your money can also make a difference.
Before You Start Saving, Calculate Your Actual Net Income
The first step is to determine how much money you really have left after all deductions. The gross salary stated in your employment contract is not the amount you can freely spend. Remember to account for taxes, insurance contributions and any accommodation fees.
In Germany, deductions from your salary include pension, health insurance and unemployment insurance contributions. The amount deducted depends on your earnings, tax class and individual circumstances. If you use accommodation provided by an employment agency, check how much it costs. Renting a room can cost approximately €400–600 per month.
In the Netherlands, tax deductions and insurance contributions also depend on your income and tax situation. Agency-provided accommodation may cost around €100–200 per week, although conditions vary between offers. Some agencies provide accommodation free of charge or at preferential rates.
Remember that if you receive your salary weekly in the Netherlands, you should multiply your weekly earnings by 4.33 to calculate your monthly income. This will give you a more accurate picture of your finances.
After paying for accommodation, food and essential transport, try to save 30–50% of the money you have left. This is an ambitious but achievable goal, especially if your employer covers some of your living expenses.
Typical Expenses for Warehouse Workers – What Takes Up the Biggest Part of Your Budget?
Accommodation and Transport – How Can You Reduce These Costs?
Accommodation is one of the most important items in your budget. Before signing a contract, check whether the accommodation fee is deducted from each payslip, whether utilities are included and how many people share a room. Compare the total cost of agency-provided accommodation with the price of renting a place independently.
In Germany, consider renting a room in a shared flat, known as a Wohngemeinschaft (WG). Prices typically range from €400 to €600 per month, depending on the location and standard of accommodation. When it comes to transport, check whether your employer provides a company shuttle. If you use public transport, compare regional ticket prices and the current cost of the Deutschlandticket. Buying a car for a short stay is usually not worthwhile, as insurance, fuel and maintenance can significantly reduce your savings.
In the Netherlands, cycling is a practical and affordable option. A second-hand bicycle may cost around €50–100, and some agencies provide bicycles for their workers. If you have a longer commute, check public transport fares and the conditions for using an OV-chipkaart. Always compare these expenses with the cost of transport provided by your employer.
Grocery Shopping in Germany and the Netherlands – Where and How Can You Save Money?
In Germany, start by shopping at Lidl and Aldi. Their own-brand products often help you reduce spending without giving up essential items. Check special offers in the Lidl Plus and Aldi apps. Depending on where you live, it is also worth comparing prices at Netto and Penny. Shops at railway stations and petrol stations are generally not the best choice for everyday grocery shopping.
In the Netherlands, Lidl and Aldi are also good options. If you shop at Albert Heijn, use a Bonuskaart to access selected discounts and special offers. At Jumbo, look for products under its own brand, Jumbo Huismerk.
Regardless of which country you work in, plan your meals several days in advance, prepare food to take to work and shop with a list. Ready-made meals, snacks bought during breaks and frequent food deliveries can consume a significant part of your weekly budget.
Extra Money for Your Savings – Vakantiegeld, Weihnachtsgeld and Tax Refunds
Saving money while working abroad does not have to mean setting aside part of every payslip. It is also worth including additional payments and benefits in your financial plan.
In the Netherlands, employees are generally entitled to holiday allowance, known as Vakantiegeld. It amounts to at least 8% of the relevant holiday allowance wage base, subject to applicable rules and exceptions. If you earn €2,500 gross per month, this could amount to approximately €2,400 gross per year, provided you work under the same conditions throughout the year. The allowance is often paid in May or June. Before receiving it, decide how much you want to put into savings.
In Germany, you may receive Weihnachtsgeld, a Christmas bonus. It is not a statutory entitlement for all employees. Your right to this payment may arise from a collective agreement, your employment contract or your employer’s policies. If you are entitled to a Christmas bonus, consider putting part of it towards an emergency fund or a specific financial goal.
You should also check whether you are eligible for a tax refund. In Germany, you can submit a Steuererklärung, while in the Netherlands, tax returns are handled by the Belastingdienst. Any refund depends on your individual circumstances, tax prepayments and available deductions or allowances. Therefore, do not assume in advance that you will receive a specific amount. In the Netherlands, ask your employer for a Jaaropgaaf, a document containing the information needed to complete your tax return. Treat any potential refund as additional savings rather than money for unplanned purchases.
Weekly vs Monthly Budgeting – How to Manage Your Money When You Are Paid Weekly in the Netherlands
If you receive your wages every week in the Netherlands, divide your money into specific categories as soon as each payment arrives. A common mistake is to treat every payslip as extra spending money instead of recognising it as part of your monthly budget.
Suppose you receive €500 net per week. That works out to approximately €2,165 per month. You will need to cover accommodation, food, transport, your phone bill and other expenses from this amount. Set fixed limits for each category and transfer a predetermined amount into your savings account. You can automate these transfers so that they take place every week.
In Germany, where salaries are often paid monthly, the principle of “pay yourself first” works well. On payday, set aside your chosen savings amount before paying your other expenses. To manage your budget, use your banking app’s transaction history, a spreadsheet or a simple expense tracker.
If you are wondering how to save money while working in a warehouse in Germany, start by being consistent. Even small amounts saved every week can build up into a substantial sum over time. You can find current warehouse and logistics job vacancies in Germany and the Netherlands on the europa.jobs portal.
Related Articles
- https://blog.europa.jobs/en/art-working-in-a-warehouse-in-germany-what-does-a-typical-working-day-look-like/
- https://blog.europa.jobs/en/art-working-in-germany-or-working-in-the-netherlands-a-starting-budget/
FAQ
1. What percentage of your salary should you save when working in a warehouse abroad?
A good starting point is to save 25–30% of your net salary. If you have affordable accommodation and transport to work is provided, you may be able to save more. The most important thing is to make sure your savings target reflects your actual expenses.
2. Which apps are useful for managing a budget in Germany and the Netherlands?
For reducing grocery costs, useful options include Lidl Plus, Aldi and the Albert Heijn Bonuskaart. To manage your budget, you can use your banking app, a spreadsheet or tools that allow you to divide your money into different savings goals. Check the fees and availability of individual features in the country where you work.
3. When and how can you transfer your earnings to Poland at a low cost?
Compare the total currency conversion and transfer costs offered by services such as Wise and Revolut with those of banks that provide foreign currency accounts. Check exchange rates, fees and any applicable limits. You do not need to transfer money after every payday. Instead, you can make regular transfers once you have saved a predetermined amount.
4. Can you get a tax refund after working in Germany or the Netherlands?
Yes. In Germany, you can submit a Steuererklärung, while in the Netherlands, you can file a tax return through the Belastingdienst. Any refund depends on factors such as tax prepayments, the length of your employment and the allowances available to you. Before submitting your return, make sure you have all the necessary documents.
5. How can you avoid spending your first salary abroad unnecessarily?
Plan your accommodation, food and transport expenses before receiving your first payment. On payday, transfer a predetermined amount into your savings account. Divide the remaining money into weekly spending limits. This will help you avoid impulse purchases and make it easier to reach your financial goal.
