Bike gone but not stolen — did the city take it?
Bike gone, no theft signs? Likely city-removed: (1) wrongly parked (in greenery, blocking pass, on else's tag), (2) abandoned bike (long unused same spot), (3) major cleanup. Check direct: verlorenofgevonden.nl — national register. Or call Bike depot Amsterdam 020-334 4522. Bring: ID + frame number or lock/key as proof. Pickup cost: €25-35 (varies per city, Amsterdam €25). Term: 6 weeks storage. After sold/recycled. Object to removal: 6 weeks after letter/bill. Success rate low unless wrong spot tagged or no warning. Not in depot? Then stolen — report at politie.nl with frame number.
Step by step
- 1Check verlorenofgevonden.nlSearch by brand, color, frame number. National register. Result immediately visible.
- 2Call bike depotAmsterdam: 020-334 4522. Other city: ask at 14 [city]. Give frame number.
- 3Book appointment + bring proofID + frame number or lock/key + purchase receipt (if doubtful).
- 4Pay pickup feeUsually €25-35 cash or card on-site. Can't object to fee itself.
All contacts
Frequently asked questions
Why was my bike removed?
Three reasons: wrong parking (greenery, blind-tiles, on else's tag), abandoned (3+ wks unused same spot), or cleanup. Bike with tag = warning for removal. Avoid by lock on rack + regularly moving.
Object to removal + costs?
6 weeks after letter/bill. Write to council. Success low unless: no warning tag, wrong tag, bike on allowed spot, letter to wrong address. On won objection: costs refunded.
Sources
🔎 Common search queries
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