Following the end of COVID-19, businesses have resumed large-scale imports from China to the Netherlands. In 2022, China contributed to 9.5% of the Netherlands’ total imports, becoming its third-largest trading partner. The Netherlands is a primary entry point to the European market with its strategic ports and rivers. This is why importers shipping into the EU must learn Dutch shipping procedures.

Shipping goods from China to the Netherlands in 2025 is straightforward if you have proper guidance. We have prepared this updated guide to walk you through the shipping options, expected timelines, costs, and customs clearance procedures from China to the Netherlands. We aim to ensure you have a smooth shipping experience.

You have several shipping options from China to the Netherlands. Each different method has its own advantages. Your choice will depend on factors like the urgency of delivery, cost budget, type of goods you’re shipping, and the size. Consider these factors carefully before choosing a shipping method. Now, let’s check out the main options available:

Sea freight remains the popular choice for shipping large amounts of goods from China to the Netherlands. While this method is budget-friendly, it’s also the slowest shipping method, and your goods may take weeks to arrive. You have two sea freight options when shipping from China to the Netherlands:

LCL (Less than Container Load): This option is ideal for smaller shipments that don’t fill up a whole container. In LCL, your goods share container space with other shipper’s cargo. Similar goods going to the same destination are usually packed together. Generally, if your goods are <15 cbm, it is best to choose LCL. However, remember that LCL might lead to extra port delays due to the consolidation and deconsolidation of other shipper’s goods. If you need a booking space for your LCL freight from China to the Netherlands, contact Winsky Freight.

FCL (Full Container Load): This option is best for larger shipments where you can fill an entire container. It’s also more secure, as the container is sealed until it reaches its destination. FCL is a cheaper option for bulky shipments > 15cbm. Even if your goods don’t fill up a container, you can still choose the FCL option if it is more affordable for you to do so.

China and the Netherlands have many standard ports that facilitate sea shipping. In fact, the Netherlands is referred to as the “gateway to Europe” because it is home to Europe’s biggest port in Rotterdam. The choice of port can affect the speed of delivery and shipping costs. When choosing a port, you should consider:

• The location of your chinese supplier: Many suppliers own factories close to ports for easy shipping, but not all suppliers do, which can increase the inland transportation costs. Always choose a port closest to your supplier to save costs.
• Your final destination in the Netherlands
• The fastest shipping route
• Type and size of goods
• The shipping costs associated with each port

Here are the key shipping ports in China:

• Shanghai: The world’s busiest container port, ideal for shipments from eastern China.
• Ningbo: Close to Shanghai, often used as an alternative for cheaper pricing.
• Shenzhen: Located in southern China, ideal for exports from the Pearl River Delta manufacturing hub.
• Xiamen: A key port for the southeastern provinces.
• Qingdao: It serves northern China, including Beijing and its surrounding industrial areas.

In the Netherlands, the key ports are:

• Rotterdam: Europe’s largest port and world’s third largest. Has state-of-the-art logistics. Easily accessible to most European countries by road and rail
• Amsterdam: It has a strategic location and can handle many cargo types.

Other major ports in the Netherlands include the Zeeland and Groningen ports.

Air freight offers a quick and reliable way to send goods between China and the Netherlands. This method is much faster than sea freight and usually takes 3 to 10 days. Air freight is an excellent choice for goods weighing 200kg to 500kg, especially time-sensitive or valuable goods like perishable products and electronics.

The cost of air freight is determined by the ‘chargeable weight‘ of your cargo. This could be either the gross weight (actual weight) or the volumetric weight (space occupied), depending on which is higher. Both weights are calculated, and you’re charged for the heavier weight. Volumetric weight is mostly charged for lightweight items.

The shipping time can be very different depending on the choice of airport and shipping route. When you use a direct shipping route, your goods can arrive as early as the second day. Indirect routes may take longer due to stopovers, but it is much more economical.

Remember that air freight is strictly a port-to-port service. Major airports in China are Beijing Capital for the northern regions, Shanghai Pudong for the east, and Guangzhou Baiyun for the south. Amsterdam Schiphol and Eindhoven airports are the major cargo airports in the Netherlands.

Discuss with us before shipping your goods so we can brief you about specific requirements and regulations that can affect your shipment.

When you need your goods shipped quickly from China to the Netherlands, express freight is your best option. It is the fastest and most convenient shipping method but also the most expensive. Your goods will arrive in 2-5 working days. As a resuslt of the high shipping costs, express freight cannot be used for heavy goods. It is more suitable for shipping samples or small urgent shipments from your suppliers.

Express freight is a door-to-door service. Your freight forwarder picks up your goods at the Chinese factory, prepares export documents, and drops them off for the express courier. The courier handles import clearance and delivers your goods right to your doorstep.

Global carriers like DHL, UPS, FedEx, and TNT usually offer express services. They are reliable and provide detailed tracking during transit.

In China to the Netherlands shipping, rail freight is the shipping option that balances speed and cost. It is faster than sea freight but cheaper than air freight. Rail freight is best suited for importers shipping large cargoes that require faster delivery than sea freight allows.

Rail freight also operates using containers. You can choose between the LCL or FCL option, just like with sea freight. This means you can ship different types of goods, whether bulky or smaller shipments.

The Chengdu-Tilburg-Rotterdam Express is a popular train service operating thrice a week from China to the Netherlands.

The major train hubs in China are Ningbo, Qingdao, Xi’an, Tianjin, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Xiamen, and Yiwu. In the Netherlands, the main rail terminals are Tilburg, Rotterdam, and Amsterdam. You can also ship through Hamburg, Neuss, or Duisburg in Germany and use trucks to deliver to the final destination in the Netherlands.

You may like to know that Rail freight is also the greener shipping method. It is an eco-friendly shipping option because it has a lower environmental impact than sea and air freight.

Express couriers deliver within 2-5 working days from any part of China to any destination in the Netherlands. Since this is a door-to-door service, you should be aware of the delivery schedule so you can be available to receive your package. Also, keep in mind that delivery times might extend a bit during holiday seasons.

Air shipping from China to the Netherlands takes 5-10 days from airport to airport. The speed of delivery depends on whether you choose a direct or indirect route. Your goods may also be delayed due to poor weather conditions. The chart below shows average air shipping times from China to the Netherlands:

Sea shipping takes about 25-35 days from port to port. The shipping time depends on the port-to-port distance and the duration of customs procedures.

Transporting your goods by rail from China to the Netherlands takes only about 16 days from station to station. Door-to-door delivery, on the other hand, takes longer, usually around 28-35 days. This time may be longer if there is port congestion or customs examinations.

The provided timelines are estimates and can change based on various factors. Always consult with your shipping provider for the most current information on your shipment.

The cost of shipping from China to the Netherlands depends on a number of factors, including the shipping methods, size of the shipment, cargo type, the distance it needs to travel, and the shipping carrier you use, pls find latest shipping cost from China to Netherlands in March, 2025 for you information, when you’re ready to ship, kindly contact us for exact shipping quote.

Express couriers charge you based on the weight and dimensions of your goods. This is why compactly packing your goods to contain little space is very important. Below is an average price rate:

Air freight rates vary frequently because they depend on current fuel prices. When planning your budget, consider the airline, route, and season of the year. As you know already, shipping during peak seasons is more expensive. You will also be charged for customs duties, security fee, and taxes by your freight forwarder. The table below gives the average prices for shipping from China to the Netherlands as of March, 2025.

Sea freight prices between China and the Netherlands depend on:

• The type and size of your goods
• The type of Container options chosen, whether FCL or LCL
• Your chosen shipping carrier
• Port-to-port distance
• Type of route taken
• Season of the year

Affected by Red Sea crisis, the sea freight from China to Europe increase a lot. Below, find an average cost estimate for shipping from the major Chinese ports to ports in the Netherlands in March, 2025.

We have explained that rail freight is cheaper than air freight but expensive than sea freight. Freight rates vary based on container type and time of the year. We can also provide you with door-to-door delivery, below is the reference cost in March, 2025.

When importing goods from China to the Netherlands, understanding the customs clearance process can be the difference between a fast import process and a delayed one. The Netherlands is a part of the European Union (EU) and follows specific import regulations.

Your first step is to get your shipping documents ready. You’re responsible for submitting them to customs during clearance. Your freight forwarder or customs broker can also submit them on your behalf, whether physically or electronically: The essential documents include:

• Single Administrative Document
• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB)
• Certificate of Origin
• Import License (if applicable). Certain restricted goods, like guns, hazardous materials, plants, and animals, may require an import license.
• Safety and Compliance Documents
• Documents of conformity (CE standard)
• Your EORI number (Economic Operator Registration Identification)

Missing any of these documents can lead to delays or fines. If you lack one of them, you can reach out to Winsky. We’ll import on your behalf and help you handle customs formalities.

The customs clearance process for importing goods from China to the Netherlands depends on the mode of transport, the value of the goods, and the type of goods. The general steps are as follows:

1. Obtain an HS code for the product you’re shipping, and calculate your goods’ CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value.
2. Complete and submit the Single Administrative Document (goods declaration form) and other documents to the Dutch Customs Authorities.
3. Pay any applicable customs duties and VAT.
4. Dutch Customs may inspect your shipment to verify the contents match the documentation and comply with EU regulations.
5. Your goods are released once compliance is verified and all duties are paid. The process usually takes 1-3 days after your goods arrive at the port. You can then move on to inland transportation with the Netherlands or the EU.

Since customs regulations and required documents can change over time, it’s advisable to consult with a customs broker or freight forwarder specializing in China-Netherlands shipments. Do you need help with your Dutch import customs clearance? We’re happy to help you with it. We’ll provide guidance, ensure compliance with all requirements, and help avoid delays in the customs clearance process. Contact us today.

The European Union has a Common Customs Tariff (CCT) that applies to all member states, including the Netherlands. However, specific rates can vary depending on the type of import and its source. Certain goods may also be eligible for reduced tariffs or exemptions under various trade agreements.

Your import duties are calculated based on the category of the goods, their CIF value, and the country of origin. You should confirm the correct code and CIF value with your freight forwarder to budget ahead correctly.

Generally, you should expect to pay between 0-17% of the CIF value, depending on the type of good. You will also pay a VAT of between 0-25%. Goods like food and drugs might be taxed at a reduced VAT rate of 6%. The VAT is calculated on the total CIF value, import duties, and applicable excise duties. You can check the TARIC database or consult a customs broker or freight forwarder for updated duty rates from China to the Netherlands.

To avoid these complexities, let Winsky navigate the customs process to ensure you pay the correct duties. Finally, remember that some products are prohibited from import into the Netherlands, while others may need an import license. Always check with your freight forwarder to ensure the goods you plan to ship are allowed.

There are two types of door-to-door shipping from China to the Netherlands- DDU and DDP shipping.

DDU Shipping- DDU shipping means a door-to-door service without handling import customs clearance and duties. It’s a common choice for express freight services like DHL, UPS, and FedEx. Your goods will be delivered right at your door but you’ll be responsible for clearing the goods through customs and paying applicable duties.

DDP Shipping- This is a more comprehensive service than DDU. Everything is done for you in DDP shipping. The goods are picked up from your supplier’s factory in China, and we handle export and import customs clearance, VAT duties, local operations, and last-mile delivery. DDP means the seller or freight forwarder bears all risks and costs until the goods are delivered, making it a stress-free option.

Winsky Freight’s door-to-door service is all-inclusive. We can provide both DDU and DDP shipping from China to the Netherlands.

Our DDP shipping options to the Netherlands include:

DDP sea freight- Takes around 38-45 days door-to-door from pick up to delivery.

DDP air freight- Takes around 14 days door-to-door from pick up to delivery.

DDP Train freight- Takes around 35 days door-to-door from pick up to delivery.

• Pick up from China factory
• Consolidation of client’s goods into an FCL container
• Preparation and Submission of export customs declaration documents
• Shipping from the Chinese origin port to EU destination port
• Our local partners in the Netherlands clear import custom clearance and duties for the whole container when goods arrive
• Unloading of the container at the seaport and transporting it to our overseas warehouse, where it is deconsolidated.
• Goods are sorted out to couriers like UPS or DPD for final delivery to your destination.

Door-to-door service saves you time, effort, and money. Using this service also helps you avoid shipping scams. It’s perfect for importers who don’t have the necessary documents to ship goods from China to the Netherlands. We’ll provide real-time tracking of your goods so you know where they are every moment. If you need help, contact Winsky for a shipping quote. We’re reputable freight forwarders that can make your shipping extremely easy. Our door-to-door shipping rates are very competitive, and we offer timely delivery.

You should buy insurance when shipping from China to the Netherlands, especially for high-value goods. In the case of damages without insurance, the maximum compensation you can get from shipping carriers is $100. This is quite small compared to the value of what you’re shipping. So, we recommend purchasing cargo insurance to guide you against potential losses or damages during transit. If you’re unsure about the insurance process, feel free to discuss it with us for guidance.

Most importers love to monitor their shipments in real time so they can plan their inventory. Keeping track of your shipment from China to the Netherlands is straightforward.

If you’re shipping via express couriers like DHL, UPS, or FedEx, simply visit their websites and enter your tracking number. For DDP air or sea freight, your freight forwarder will give you a tracking number and direct you to the appropriate tracking site. Air freight shipments come with a tracking number on the air waybill (AWB). Input that number on the shipping carrier’s website or to know the real-time location of your goods.

Monitoring sea freight shipments follows the same process. Enter your container tracking number on the shipping carrier’s website for updates on your container’s location.

Finally, using universal platforms like 17Track is one of the easiest ways to track your goods from China to the Netherlands. The platform supports over 1500 carriers and 120+ airlines globally and can track all shipping modes.

Winky Freight is a trusted Chinese freight forwarder with over 15 years of experience. We have successfully handled thousands of shipments for our clients from China to different parts of Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Africa. We offer the most affordable shipping thanks to our extensive network across many countries. Choosing Winsky comes with many advantages:

Competitive shipping costs and fast delivery times: We have exclusive deals with shipping carriers and logistics companies that enable us to offer competitive shipping rates at the shortest delivery time possible.

Reliability and safety: Winsky prioritizes the safe handling and packaging of goods to prevent loss and damage.

Exceptional customer service: Our team guides you at every stage of the shipping process to ensure stress-free shipping.

Proven experience: With over 15 years of expertise in shipping goods and clearing customs between China and the Netherlands, we understand how to navigate the various challenges of international logistics and provide effective solutions that favour our clients.

Effective customs compliance: Winsky Freight’s thorough understanding of the customs process in the Netherlands ensures you meet all legal requirements to avoid delays and fines.

Extra services: We also offer our clients additional services like warehousing, packaging, low insurance premiums, and distribution support.

Are you ready to ship goods from China to the Netherlands? Winsky should be your first choice. Our reliable and excellent shipping service guarantees a safe and hassle-free shipping experience, even in peak shipping seasons.

Shipping with Winsky Freight is very simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to our shipping procedures from China to the Netherlands.

1. Inform us once your goods are ready. We, or your supplier, will arrange pickup from the factory to our warehouse.
2. We’ll request that the supplier prepare all necessary shipping documents.
3. We inspect the goods when they arrive at our warehouse to verify the content, weight, and dimensions. Then, we provide you with feedback for confirmation.
4. We send a shipping invoice to you for payment confirmation. Our pricing is transparent, and all costs are agreed upon before shipping.
5. We manage the export customs clearance process for sea freight shipments.
6. We give you the sea freight tracking number so you can monitor your shipment in transit.
7. Once the goods arrive at the destination seaport, our local partner in the Netherlands completes the import customs clearance and duty payments.
8. After clearing customs, our local partner will organize the delivery of your goods to your final destination in the Netherlands using truck or courier services.

When you’re ready to ship, Winsky provides multiple payment options to suit your needs.

• T/T Bank Transfer– Our primary option for bulk payments. It is secure and widely used for international transactions.
• PayPal– It is a quick option but is only suitable for smaller transactions due to PayPal’s higher handling fees of around 4.7% per transaction.
• Wise.com (formerly TransferWise)- A popular third-party payment platform known for its fast international transfers and lower bank handling fees. It is a fast and cheap payment method.
• MoneyGram– A reliable service for sending money quickly across borders.
• Western Union– One of the most popular means of transferring money internationally. It is fast and convenient for shipping transactions.

In this article, we have covered the basics of shipping from China to the Netherlands in 2025. We hope this guide helps you navigate the difficulties of international shipping processes. Should you find yourself with any more questions about shipping to the Netherlands, reach out to us below. We’ll respond to you within minutes.