Shipping from
China to Netherlands

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Main Topics

Introduction

Navigating shipping from China to Netherlands for your goods doesn’t have to be complicated. The Netherlands, a bustling hub for trade with China, offers robust options to get your products moving. For big loads, Sea freight from China to Netherlands is your wallet-friendly ally, ensuring your items arrive without a hefty price tag. When time is of the essence, Air freight from China to Netherlands swoops in to deliver your smaller, urgent parcels swiftly.

Seeking a hassle-free experience? Door-to-door service is your answer, taking your goods from their starting point to your doorstep with ease. And if speed is your top priority, express shipping propels your items through the skies, landing them quickly.

At Hipofly Shipping, we streamline shipping from China to Netherlands, making it smooth sailing for you. Our team, seasoned in the ways of freight, can pinpoint the perfect shipping mode for your needs. We manage the nitty-grittyβ€”from customs to packagingβ€”freeing you to focus on your business’s big picture.

Committed to top-tier service at competitive prices, we at Hipofly Shipping are your go-to allies for moving your goods. Big or small, we ensure your cargo’s journey from China to the Netherlands is efficient, swift, and wallet-friendly.

Where is Netherlands?

The Netherlands is located in northwestern Europe, bordered by Germany to the east, Belgium to the south, and the North Sea to the west and north. The country is known for its picturesque landscapes, windmills, tulip fields, and rich cultural heritage.
Despite its small size, the Netherlands is highly developed and prosperous, with approximately 17 million people. Its capital city, Amsterdam, is a popular tourist destination renowned for its historic canals, museums, and vibrant nightlife.
The Netherlands has a diverse economy and is one of the world’s leading exporters of agricultural products, chemicals, and high-tech machinery. The country is also a major trading partner with China, with a significant amount of goods transported between the two countries daily.
In addition to its economic and cultural significance, the Netherlands is known for its progressive social policies and commitment to sustainability. The country is a leader in renewable energy and sustainable agriculture and has significantly invested in public transportation and cycling infrastructure.
The Netherlands is a small but influential country with a rich history and culture. Its strategic location in Europe, its strong economy, and its commitment to sustainability make it an essential player on the global stage.

China-Netherlands trade relations -Handelsbetrekkingen tussen China en NederlandΒ 

The Netherlands continues to solidify its position as a key player in the global shipping industry, thanks in large part to the Port of Rotterdam, one of the world’s most bustling ports. This port’s strategic placement has cemented the country’s status as Europe’s maritime gateway.

Accounting for a substantial slice of the nation’s GDP, Dutch exports are a testament to its robust economy and its embrace of open trade. This open stance has made the country a magnet for companies aiming to broaden their international footprint and tap into new markets.

The trade dynamics between China and the Netherlands have seen a notable upswing, with China emerging as the Netherlands’ second-largest non-EU trade partner. By 2022, trade between the two had ballooned to over €80 billion, underscoring the deepening commercial bonds.

In the realm of imports from China, electronics and machinery lead the pack. As of 2020, these categories represented over half of the Netherlands’ total imports from China, showcasing the high demand for these items. Textiles, plastics, and furniture also feature prominently in the import lists.

Turning to Canada’s role in Sino-Canadian shipping, the past decade has been marked by a concerted effort to enhance trade links. The free trade agreement inked in 2012 set the stage for increased trade and investment. Furthermore, Canada has been actively seeking to diversify its trade portfolio, reaching out to China and other Asian markets as part of this strategic diversification.

Shipping from China to Netherlands - Verzending van China naar Nederland

Shipping from China to Netherlands is an important link in the chain of global trade. As China stands as the Netherlands’ biggest trading partner outside the EU, a significant portion of Dutch imports come from there. Businesses have multiple options for shipping these goods, each with its own set of benefits tailored to different needs like size, urgency, and cost. For bulkier shipments where cost efficiency is key, sea freight emerges as the preferred choice, while air freight is the go-to for urgent or smaller deliveries. For more details on air freight, visit our Air Freight service.

  1. Air freight: Air freight is prized for its speed and flexibility, making it an excellent choice for businesses that need their shipments delivered quickly. This method is perfect for smaller, time-sensitive goods and provides a higher level of security with less risk of damage. However, it’s often pricier than sea transport, and capacity can be limited. For those looking to learn more about air freight’s benefits, visit our Air Freight service.
  2. Sea freight: Sea freight is the economical option for shipping large quantities. It offers Full Container Load (FCL) and Less Than Container Load (LCL) services, accommodating different shipment sizes at lower costs. While transit times are longer, the ability to ship in bulk can be highly advantageous. If you’re considering sea freight for your shipping needs, visit our Sea Freight service for additional information.
  3. Door to Door (DDP): Door to Door (DDP) service simplifies the shipping process by handling every step, from pickup in China to delivery in the Netherlands. It saves time and minimizes hassle, though it can be costlier than other options. This service is especially beneficial for those looking to avoid the complexities of customs and logistics. For a comprehensive overview of our Door to Door service, please visit our Door to Door service page.
  4. Express shipping: Express shipping is the fastest and most reliable way to send smaller shipments. It offers quick delivery, real-time tracking, and complete door-to-door handling. While this convenience and speed come at a premium, the benefits often outweigh the costs for urgent deliveries. To discover more about the perks of express shipping, visit our Express Shipping service.

Necessary Documents for shipping from China to Netherlands

When shipping from China to Netherlands, several vital documents are essential to ensure a smooth process. A proforma invoice kicks off the trade, giving both buyer and seller a preview of the sale’s costs and terms, thus reducing misunderstandings and setting the stage for payment and credit arrangements. Along with this, a detailed packing list is necessary, listing everything in the shipment, which is crucial for customs compliance and avoiding delays. A certificate of origin is also required to confirm where the goods were made, critical for customs to apply the correct taxes and duties.

Lastly, understanding Incoterms is crucial as they outline the responsibilities of buyers and sellers for the delivery of goods, ensuring clarity in international trade. If you need more detailed guidance on the necessary documents for shipping from China, please visit our Documents for Shipping from China page.

Air freight from China to Netherlands -Luchtvracht van China naar Nederland

Shipping from China to Netherlands by air is quick and safe. It’s like choosing a speedy delivery service over a slow-moving truck or ship. Air shipping gets your items where they need to go fast, in just a few days, and they’re less likely to get lost or broken.

But, this fast service can cost more, especially for big or heavy items. Planes also can’t carry things that are too large or too heavy. Plus, you might have to pay extra for airport processes and paperwork.

If you’re sending electronics like phones or computers by air, you’ll need to pick a shipping company to help you. They’ll sort out the details, like booking the flight for your goods, dealing with customs, and making sure your items arrive safely at their destination.

These electronic items need to be packed carefully to avoid any damage on their journey through the skies.

In short, air shipping is all about balancing speed and care against the higher cost and size limits. With the right shipping partner and some careful packing, your electronics will fly safely from China to the Netherlands.

Main air freight route from China to Netherlands

Major air carriers are big airlines that fly lots of planes to many places. They usually fly around the world or to lots of places in one region. These airlines offer different seats like first-class and economy, movies during the flight, and other nice things for travelers.

These big airlines have important jobs to do. They need to keep everyone safe, follow the rules for flying, and make sure flights go smoothly and on time. They also need to take good care of their passengers, like letting them know if a flight is delayed.

Big airlines are also important for the world’s money matters. They help people travel and goods get shipped, which is good for business and can create jobs.

Here are some of the big airlines in China and the Netherlands:

In China:

  • Air China
  • China Eastern Airlines
  • China Southern Airlines
  • Hainan Airlines
  • Xiamen Airlines
  • Sichuan Airlines
  • Shenzhen Airlines
  • Spring Airlines
  • Juneyao Airlines
  • Lucky Air

In the Netherlands:

  • KLM Cargo
  • Martinair Cargo
  • AirBridgeCargo Netherlands
  • JetNetherlands Cargo
  • Nippon Cargo Airlines Netherlands
  • Cygnus Air Cargo
  • DHL Aviation Netherlands
  • UPS Airlines Netherlands
  • TNT Airways Netherlands

Major air carrier from China to Netherlands

A major air carrier is an airline that operates on a large scale, with a significant number of aircraft, flights, and passengers. These airlines typically have a global or regional reach, serving destinations across multiple countries or continents. They often offer a wide range of services, including first-class, business-class, and economy-class seating options, in-flight entertainment, and premium amenities.

As a result of their size and reach, major air carriers have several duties and responsibilities. These include ensuring the safety and security of their passengers and crew, adhering to strict regulatory guidelines and standards, and providing reliable and efficient air transportation services. They also have a responsibility to provide excellent customer service, including timely and accurate information about flight schedules, delays, and cancellations.

Additionally, major air carriers play a crucial role in the global economy, facilitating the movement of people and goods across borders. They contribute to economic growth and development, both by creating job opportunities and by enabling businesses to expand their operations globally.

List of Air Carriers in China

  • Air China
  • China Eastern Airlines
  • China Southern Airlines
  • Hainan Airlines
  • Xiamen Airlines
  • Sichuan Airlines
  • Shenzhen Airlines
  • Spring Airlines
  • Juneyao Airlines
  • Lucky Air

List of Air Carriers in Netherlands

  • KLM Cargo
  • Martinair Cargo
  • AirBridgeCargo Netherlands
  • JetNetherlands Cargo
  • Nippon Cargo Airlines (NCA) Netherlands
  • Cygnus Air Cargo
  • DHL Aviation Netherlands
  • UPS Airlines Netherlands
  • TNT Airways Netherlands

Air Freight Cost / Transit time from China to Netherlands

Air freight is a popular mode of transportation for businesses that need to move goods quickly and efficiently between China and the Netherlands. Air freight costs and transit times vary depending on various factors, including the size and weight of the shipment, the origin and destination, and the level of service required.

Typically, air freight costs are calculated based on the weight or volume of the shipment, whichever is greater. Transit times can also vary depending on the level of service chosen, with faster services typically costing more.

For example, a business needs to ship a 500 kg electronics shipment from Shenzhen, China, to Amsterdam, Netherlands. They choose to use air freight and select a standard service with a transit time of 5-7 days. The cost for this shipment may be around $2,500.

Businesses need to consider the costs and transit times when choosing an air freight service and any additional services they may require, such as customs clearance or insurance. By working with a reliable and experienced air freight provider, businesses can ensure that their shipments are transported safely and efficiently, with minimal delays and costs.

Air freight cost from China to Netherlands

Shipping from China to Netherlands involves various costs, including air freight. The price of air freight from China to Netherlands depends on weight, dimensions, distance, customs clearance, and insurance. Although air freight is generally more expensive than other shipping methods, it’s the fastest and most reliable option for businesses transporting time-sensitive or high-value goods.

What are common extra costs for air freight?

Extra costs refer to additional fees or charges that are added to the base price of a product or service. In the context of air freight, there are several common extra costs that businesses should be aware of to avoid unexpected expenses. Here is a list of common extra costs associated with air freight:

  • Customs clearance fees: Charged by customs brokers or agents to cover the cost of processing customs documents and ensuring that goods comply with import regulations.
  • Insurance costs: Cover any loss or damage to goods during transportation.
  • Fuel surcharges: Fees that are added to the shipping cost to cover the fluctuating price of fuel.
  • Handling charges: Cover the cost of loading and unloading cargo, as well as any special requirements, such as hazardous materials handling.
  • Storage fees: May apply if the shipment needs to be held at a warehouse.
    Expedited processing or
  • delivery fees: Cover the cost of expediting the shipment to meet a tight deadline.
  • Special requirements fees: Cover any additional services that may be required, such as specialized handling of hazardous materials.

Air freight Transit Time from China to Netherlands

Air freight transit time from China to the Netherlands is influenced by various factors, including the specific departure and arrival airports, the chosen air cargo carrier, and the nature of the freight services (e.g., direct flights versus those requiring layovers). Typically, transit times can range from a few days to over a week. For example, direct flights from major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou to Amsterdam, one of the Netherlands’ key air freight hubs, can be relatively swift, with goods often reaching their destination in approximately 8-12 hours of flight time. However, when accounting for additional factors such as cargo handling, customs clearance, and possible layovers, the total transit time can extend to several days.

Moreover, flights from less central locations within China or to other Dutch cities like Rotterdam, Eindhoven, or Maastricht might necessitate connecting flights, which can further extend the transit time. For instance, cargo shipped from cities like Chengdu or Kunming might first need to be transported to a larger Chinese airport hub before making its way to the Netherlands, adding to the total duration. The efficiency of air freight logistics, including the speed of customs procedures, cargo consolidation practices, and the frequency of flights between specific city pairs, also plays a significant role in determining the overall transit time. Consequently, businesses and individuals looking to ship goods between China and the Netherlands via air freight should plan accordingly, taking into consideration these various time-influencing factors to ensure timely delivery.

Sea freight from China to Netherlands - Zeevracht van China naar Nederland

Sea freight is a standard option for shipping from China to Netherlands due to the lower costs associated with transporting goods in bulk. Sea freight vessels are designed to handle large volumes of cargo and can transport everything from consumer goods and electronics to heavy machinery and raw materials. Although sea freight can take longer than air freight, it remains a popular option for businesses looking to reduce transportation costs and optimize their supply chain.

Additionally, businesses shipping from China to Netherlands should know customs regulations and import requirements to ensure smooth and efficient shipping. This can include obtaining necessary permits and documentation, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental standards, and coordinating with logistics partners to manage the entire shipping process from start to finish.

FCL vs LCL

Need to send a lot of stuff from China to the Netherlands? Use Full Container Load (FCL) to ship everything in one container. It’s a bit pricier but faster and safer for your goods. You can also choose different types of containers, like ones for cold items or big stuff.

Got less to ship? Go for Less than Container Load (LCL). It’s cheaper since you share the container space with others. It takes a little longer, but it’s great for smaller shipments. Here’s a quick list to sum it up:

Full Container Load (FCL):

  • Just your goods in the container
  • Faster shipping times
  • Lower risk of damage
  • More flexibility with cargo size and type
  • Choice of container types (dry, refrigerated, flat-rack)

Less than Container Load (LCL):

  • Share container space with others
  • More cost-effective for smaller shipments
  • Goods are palletized
  • Longer transit times due to consolidation
  • Ideal for businesses not needing a full container

About the biggest sea Shipping Line in Netherlands

Sea shipping lines specialize in transporting cargo by sea from one port to another. These shipping lines operate large cargo ships and container vessels designed to transport a wide range of goods, including consumer goods, raw materials, and heavy equipment. The vessel served by sea shipping lines travel to different ports worldwide, allowing businesses to transport goods long distances.
Sea shipping lines are responsible for managing the entire shipping process, including loading and unloading cargo, securing the cargo during transport, and ensuring that the shipment arrives at its destination on time and in good condition. These companies also handle customs clearance and documentation and coordinate with other logistics partners such as trucking companies and freight forwarders.
As of 2022, the top 10 largest sea shipping lines in the world by TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) capacity are:

  1. A.P. Moller-Maersk
  2. MSC Mediterranean Shipping CompanyΒ 
  3. CMA CGM
  4. COSCO Shipping
  5. Hapag-LloydΒ 
  6. ONEΒ 
  7. Evergreen LineΒ 
  8. Yang Ming Marine Transport CorporationΒ 
  9. PIL Pacific International Lines
  10. ZIM Integrated Shipping Service

These companies operate fleets of container ships that transport goods around the world. They offer various shipping services, including door-to-door delivery, customs clearance, and logistics solutions. The size and capacity of their ships significantly impact global trade and the movement of goods between countries.

Sea Freight Cost / Transit time from China to Netherlands

Sea freight cost and transit time from China to Netherlands can vary depending on several factors, such as the volume and weight of the shipment, the type of container used, and the shipping route. Generally, the cost of sea freight from China to the Netherlands is lower than air freight, but the transit time is longer.

The transit time for sea freight from China to the Netherlands can take between 20-40 days, depending on the route and the location of the ports. For example, shipping from Shanghai to Rotterdam typically takes around 25 days, while shipping from Guangzhou to Amsterdam could take approximately 35 days.

The sea freight cost is usually calculated based on the volume and weight of the shipment and the distance between the ports. Other cost factors include customs fees, insurance, and any additional services required, such as packaging or warehousing.
It is best to consult with a shipping company or freight forwarder to get an accurate estimate of sea freight cost and transit time from China to the Netherlands. They can help determine the most cost-effective and efficient shipping solution for a particular shipment and provide information on any customs regulations or import requirements that need to be met.

Sea freight cost from China to Netherlands

Sea freight cost from China to France is influenced by a range of factors that include the volume and weight of the cargo, the type of goods being shipped, the chosen shipping terms (such as FOB, CIF, etc.), and the service level (standard, express, etc.). Rates can vary significantly depending on whether a full container load (FCL) or less than container load (LCL) service is used. FCL shipping involves renting an entire container and is typically more cost-effective for larger shipments, while LCL consolidates cargo from multiple shippers into a shared container, making it a more viable option for smaller shipments. Seasonal demand fluctuations, fuel prices, and currency exchange rates also play critical roles in determining the overall shipping costs. Additionally, surcharges for special requirements such as refrigeration for perishable goods, hazardous materials handling, or door-to-door delivery services can further affect the total cost.

The shipping route between China and France is a busy and vital one, connecting major Chinese ports like Shanghai, Ningbo, and Shenzhen with French ports such as Le Havre and Marseille. Transit times and costs can vary based on the specific origin and destination ports, the efficiency of customs clearance processes, and the carrier’s network and schedule reliability. Given the complexity of international shipping logistics, rates are subject to change and can be impacted by global economic conditions, trade policies, and port congestion. Businesses looking to ship goods between China and France must stay informed about these variables to manage their shipping costs effectively and ensure timely delivery of their cargo.

The list of Sea shipping surcharges​

Sea shipping surcharges are additional fees applied to the essential freight cost to cover various factors affecting the overall cost of container shipping. These surcharges ensure that carriers can maintain their operations and cover fuel prices, currency fluctuations, or seasonal demand expenses. Here is a list of common sea shipping surcharges with explanations:

  • Basic Freight (BF): The base charge for shipping a container from one port to another depends on factors like the size and type of container and the distance between the origin and destination ports.
  • Bunker Adjustment Factor (BAF): A fuel surcharge applied to account for fluctuations in global oil prices. This charge is adjusted periodically to reflect changes in fuel costs and helps carriers cover their fuel expenses.
  • Currency Adjustment Factor (CAF): An additional fee is applied to cover fluctuations in currency exchange rates. This charge ensures that shipping companies can maintain their revenue in their local currency despite changes in exchange rates.
  • Peak Season Surcharge (PSS): A temporary fee is applied during peak shipping seasons when demand for container space is high. This fee helps carriers manage increased operational costs during peak periods, typically from August to October.
  • Congestion Surcharge (CS): An additional fee is applied at ports experiencing congestion or delays due to increased demand, labor disputes, or bad weather. This fee covers the additional costs incurred by shipping companies during congestion.

Sea freight Transit Time from China to Netherlands(LCL,FCL)

Sea freight transit times from China to Netherlands can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the type of shipment, the ports of departure and arrival, and the specific shipping routes used. For Less than Container Load (LCL) shipments, where goods from multiple shippers are consolidated into a single container, transit times can be longer due to the additional time needed for consolidation and deconsolidation processes. LCL shipments might take anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks to travel from major Chinese ports like Shanghai, Shenzhen, or Ningbo to Dutch ports such as Rotterdam or Amsterdam. The variance in time accounts for the initial consolidation delays in China, the actual sea transit, and the subsequent deconsolidation and customs clearance processes in the Netherlands.

On the other hand, Full Container Load (FCL) shipments, where a shipper leases an entire container, typically experience shorter and more predictable transit times, as these shipments bypass the consolidation process. FCL shipments from China to the Netherlands generally take between 2 to 5 weeks, depending on the shipping line and direct or indirect routing of the vessel. Direct services from main Chinese ports to Rotterdam or Amsterdam are faster but might be more expensive, while indirect services, involving transshipment at intermediate ports, can add to the transit time but may offer cost savings. Both LCL and FCL shipments are subject to variability due to factors like weather conditions, port congestion, and customs procedures, which can affect the overall transit time.

5 main types of container for shipping to Netherlands

As mentioned, shipping containers within the same country, such as shipping from China to Netherlands, does not make sense. However, I can provide information on the main types of containers used for shipping goods internationally from the Netherlands.

  • Dry Containers: These are the most common containers for shipping dry goods like textiles, electronics, and food products. They are fully enclosed, weatherproof, and come in various sizes, such as 20ft, 40ft, and 45ft.
  • Reefer Containers: These containers have refrigeration systems that allow them to maintain a controlled temperature for perishable goods like fruits, vegetables, and meats.
  • Flat Rack Containers: These containers have collapsible sides and ends and are used for oversized or heavy cargo that cannot fit inside a standard container.
  • Open Top Containers: These containers have a removable top that allows for easy loading and unloading of goods that cannot be loaded from the standard doors of a dry container.
  • Tank Containers: These containers are designed to transport liquids and gases, such as chemicals and fuels. They are often made of stainless steel and have a capacity of up to 26,000 liters.

These container types are widely used in international shipping from the Netherlands to other countries, as they provide secure and efficient transportation for various goods.

Should I book my air and sea shipment myself, or will my supplier do it?

Hipofly Shipping Company provides various services to send goods from China to Netherlands, like air and sea transport, taking care of customs, delivering straight to your door, quick shipping, and storage. You can book the shipping yourself or let your supplier work with Hipofly.

If you’re not familiar with shipping stuff overseas, it might be easier to let Hipofly take over. They know the business, can get good prices, and deal with all the paperwork. This can save you time and trouble.

But if you know the ropes of international shipping, you might prefer to handle it yourself to keep control and possibly get better deals.

The choice depends on what you know, what you can handle, and what you need. If you’re not sure or have questions, Hipofly’s experts are there to help guide you through the process.

Conclusion

At Hipofly Shipping, we make sure your different stuff is shipping from China to Netherlands safely and on time. We have all kinds of shipping like by plane(air freight), by ship(sea freight), door to door delivery(DDP), and fast shipping(Express) for different needs and budgets.

Our team helps you with all the papers you need, like invoices and lists of what’s in your shipment, so it passes through customs smoothly.

We use big airports and ports in China and the Netherlands, and we work with lots of different shipping companies to get you a good price and make sure your shipment arrives when it should.

We’ve got different container sizes for all sorts of shipments, even special ones for stuff that needs extra care.

We help you decide if it’s better to ship by air or by sea. Air shipping is quick but costs more, and sea shipping is cheaper, especially for big stuff, but it takes longer. We’re all about giving you great service, good prices, and the right shipping options for what you need.

The primary methods are air freight for faster delivery and sea freight for larger, less time-sensitive shipments.

Air freight can take about 3-5 days, while sea freight typically takes around 30-40 days, depending on the exact route and carrier.

Costs vary based on shipping method, weight, volume, and type of service. Air freight is generally more expensive than sea freight.

While not mandatory, a freight forwarder can simplify the process, handle documentation, and negotiate better rates on your behalf.

A B/L is a legal document issued by a carrier to a shipper, detailing the type, quantity, and destination of the goods being carried.

Prohibited items include dangerous goods, illegal substances, weapons, and counterfeit goods. Restrictions can vary, so it's best to consult with your shipping provider.

Goods must be declared to Dutch customs, where they will be assessed for applicable duties and taxes based on their value, origin, and other factors.

Commonly required documents include a commercial invoice, packing list, Bill of Lading or Airway Bill, and sometimes a Certificate of Origin.

Yes, most carriers and freight forwarders provide online tracking systems for real-time updates on your shipment's status.

FCL means you get an entire container for your goods, while LCL involves sharing container space with other shippers' goods.