The Netherlands has long been recognized as the gateway to Europe, and in 2025 its role is more important than ever. Rotterdam remains Europe’s largest seaport, and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport continues to be one of the busiest air cargo hubs in the world. These advantages make the Netherlands a prime entry point for Chinese goods bound for the entire EU market.
China contributed to nearly 10% of the Netherlands’ total imports in recent years, making it one of the country’s largest trading partners. As import volumes continue to grow, businesses are seeking reliable, cost-efficient, and transparent shipping solutions.
At DFH Logistics, we have over 12 years of experience shipping from China to the Netherlands. This guide provides everything you need to know about shipping methods, transit times, costs, customs clearance, VAT, and duties. We also include real customer cases showing how we helped importers save time, reduce costs, and simplify the logistics process.
What Are the Available Shipping Methods from China to the Netherlands?
Importers can choose between Sea Freight, Air Freight, Express Courier, Rail Freight, and Truck Freight. Each shipping mode has unique advantages and limitations depending on volume, urgency, product type, and budget.
Sea Freight from China to the Netherlands
Sea freight remains the most cost-effective method for large shipments from China to the Netherlands, though it is also the slowest.
LCL (Less than Container Load) from China to Netherlands:
Ideal for shipments below 15 CBM. Your goods share container space with other shippers.- Pros: Affordable for small-volume cargo.
- Cons: Extra time needed for consolidation and deconsolidation, possible delays.
FCL (Full Container Load) from China to Netherlands:
Best for shipments above 15 CBM or when security is a concern. You book an entire 20GP, 40GP, or 40HQ container.- Pros: Faster customs clearance, sealed containers, lower cost per CBM.
- Cons: Higher upfront cost if the container is not fully utilized.
Top Chinese Ports: Shanghai, Ningbo, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Qingdao, Xiamen, Tianjin.
Dutch Ports: Rotterdam (largest in Europe), Amsterdam, Zeeland, Groningen.
Sea Freight Rates (Estimated):
- LCL: USD 35–55 per CBM
- FCL 40HQ: USD 2,000–2,800 per container
Air Freight from China to Netherland
Air freight is significantly faster than sea freight, making it ideal for time-sensitive or high-value cargo.
- Transit Time: 3-5 days(door to port) 6–12 days (door-to-door)
- Best For: 100–500 kg shipments, electronics, fashion, perishable goods
- Airports in China: Beijing Capital, Shanghai Pudong, Guangzhou Baiyun, Shenzhen Bao’an
- Airports in NL: Amsterdam Schiphol, Eindhoven
Cost Calculation: Based on chargeable weight, which is the higher of actual gross weight vs volumetric weight (L × W × H ÷ 6000).
Read more: How to Calculate the Chargeable weight for air freight
Air Freight Rates (Estimated):
- 100–300 kg: USD 4.8–6.5 per kg
- 300–500 kg: USD 4.0–5.5 per kg
Express Courier from China to Netherland (DHL, FedEx, UPS, TNT)
Express freight is the fastest and most convenient option, offering full door-to-door service.
- Transit Time: 2–5 working days
- Best For: Samples, urgent parcels, or small shipments under 100 kg
- Carriers: DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT
- Service Includes: Pickup at Chinese supplier, export declaration, customs clearance, and final delivery
Express Rates (Estimated per kg):
- DHL: USD 7.0–8.8
- FedEx: USD 6.8–8.0
- UPS: USD 7.5–8.5
Customer Case:
One Amazon seller needed urgent samples delivered to Rotterdam. Using DFH’s express channel, the package arrived in 3 days, saving the client nearly 15% compared to booking DHL directly.
Rail Freight from China to Netherland
Rail freight is a balanced option between cost and speed. It is faster than sea freight and cheaper than air freight.
- Transit Time: 16–20 days (station-to-station), 28–35 days (door-to-door)
- Best For: Medium-volume shipments (5–15 CBM) where faster delivery is needed without paying air rates
- Main China Hubs: Xi’an, Chengdu, Yiwu, Zhengzhou, Chongqing
- NL Terminals: Tilburg, Rotterdam, Amsterdam
Rail Freight Rates (Estimated):
- LCL: USD 2.5–4.0 per kg
- FCL 40HQ: USD 5,500–6,500 per container
Truck Freight from China to Netherlands
Truck freight is an emerging option that connects China to Europe through overland routes.
- Transit Time: 18–25 days (door-to-door)
- Best For: Medium-volume shipments (300–2,000 kg) with a balance of speed and cost
- Advantages:
- Faster than sea freight, cheaper than air freight
- Flexible pickup and delivery coverage
- Limitations:
- Multiple border customs checks (China, Kazakhstan, Russia, Belarus, Poland, EU)
- Sensitive to geopolitical or weather-related delays
2025 Trucking Costs (Estimated):
- USD 3.5–4.5 per kg for LCL
- USD 6,000–7,000 per 40HQ container
Real Example for truck freight from China to netherland:
A fashion wholesaler in Amsterdam used DFH’s trucking solution for 2,000 kg of apparel. Delivery took 20 days, costing 30% less than air freight while ensuring faster stock replenishment than sea.
How Long Does It Take to Ship from China to the Netherlands? (Express, Air, Rail, Sea, and Truck)
The time it takes to ship from China to the Netherlands depends on the shipping method, the departure city in China, and customs clearance efficiency in the Netherlands. Here is a breakdown of the typical transit times by mode of transport.
Express Freight shipping time from China to Netherland
Express couriers such as DHL, UPS, and FedEx deliver shipments within 2–5 working days from any part of China to any destination in the Netherlands.
- This is a door-to-door service, meaning the courier handles pickup, export declaration, import clearance, and final delivery.
- Delivery times may extend during peak seasons or public holidays.
Most time can delivery within 2-5days, but if you choose the economic express shipping method it may takes aound 5-7days.
Air Freight time from China to netherlands
How long does air freight from China to netherland?
Air freight typically takes 3–5 days from airport to airport, and 6–12 days door-to-door.
- Direct flights are faster but more expensive.
- Indirect routes with stopovers are cheaper but can add 2–3 days.
- Weather conditions and airline space availability can affect delivery.
Average Transit Times (Air Freight):
| China Airports | Netherlands Airports | Estimated Shipping Time (Days) |
|---|---|---|
| Beijing (PEK) | Amsterdam (AMS) | 5–7 days |
| Shanghai (PVG) | Rotterdam (RTM) | 6–8 days |
| Shenzhen (SZX) | Eindhoven (EIN) | 4–6 days |
| Hong Kong (HKG) | Amsterdam (AMS) | 4–6 days |
| Guangzhou (CAN) | Amsterdam (AMS) | 4–6 days |
Sea Freight time from China to Netherlands
Sea freight is the slowest but most cost-effective option. Shipping from China to the Netherlands usually takes 25–35 days port-to-port and 35–45 days door-to-door.
Transit times depend on the distance between origin and destination ports and customs clearance procedures at Rotterdam or Amsterdam.
Average 2025 Sea Transit Times (Port-to-Port):
| Chinese Ports | Rotterdam | Amsterdam |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | 26 days | 33 days |
| Shenzhen | 23 days | 30 days |
| Ningbo | 28 days | 31 days |
| Guangzhou | 26 days | 29 days |
| Qingdao | 26 days | 31 days |
| Guangzhou | 23 days | 30 days |
Rail Freight from China to the Netherlands
Rail freight offers a middle ground between air and sea.
- Station-to-station: ~16–20 days
- Door-to-door: ~28–35 days (including pickup, customs, and last-mile delivery)
- Rail is also considered a greener shipping option, producing fewer CO₂ emissions compared to air and sea.
Popular Route Example:
- Chengdu → Tilburg: 16–18 days (station-to-station)
- Xi’an → Rotterdam: 18–20 days
- Yiwu → Amsterdam: 19–21 days
Truck Freight from China to Netherlands
Truck freight is becoming a popular alternative, especially for mid-volume cargo.
- Transit Time: 18–22 days door-to-door
- Routes pass through Kazakhstan, Russia, Belarus, and Poland before entering the EU.
- It offers flexibility for cargo between 300–2,000 kg.
Tips for you when make decision
- Fastest: Express (2–5 days)
- Balanced: Air (6–12 days), Rail (16–20 days station-to-station), Truck (18–22 days door-to-door)
- Cheapest but slowest: Sea (35–45 days door-to-door)
Always plan shipments based on urgency, product value, and sales deadlines. DFH Logistics helps clients choose the most cost-effective route while ensuring on-time delivery.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship from China to the Netherlands?
The cost of shipping depends on several factors: shipping method, cargo weight and volume, product category, chosen ports/airports, and the season of the year. Peak seasons (such as before Christmas or Chinese New Year) usually see higher rates. Always request a tailored DFH quote for the most accurate estimate. Below is a breakdown of the average 2025 costs for different shipping modes.
Express Freight Costs from China to Netherlands
Express couriers calculate rates based on the chargeable weight — whichever is higher between actual weight and volumetric weight (L × W × H ÷ 5000 or 6000). Proper packaging can significantly reduce your cost.
Average Express Courier Rates (per kg, September 2025):
| Carrier | ≥21 kg (USD/kg) | ≥69 kg (USD/kg) | ≥100 kg (USD/kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| FedEx | 9.0–10.5 | 7.8–9.0 | 6.8–8.0 |
| UPS | 8.8–9.8 | 7.6–8.8 | 7.5–8.5 |
| DHL | 9.5–11.5 | 7.5–9.0 | 7.0–8.8 |
Case Example:
A Dutch Amazon seller shipped 80 kg of electronics samples from Shenzhen to Rotterdam using DFH’s discounted DHL service. Delivery took 3 days and cost 12% less than the market rate.
Please Note it is only the common price. There are so many factors can influence the unit price, So you can always contact your freight forwarder with your shipment details before you make decision which one to use.
Air Freight Costs from China to Netherlands
Air freight rates vary by airline, route, and season. They are usually quoted per kilogram.
Standard Air Freight Rates (September 2025):
| Origin → Destination | ≥100 kg (USD/kg) | ≥300 kg (USD/kg) | ≥500 kg (USD/kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shenzhen/Guangzhou/Shanghai → Amsterdam | 5.0–7.0 | 4.5–5.4 | 4.0–5.0 |
| Shanghai → Rotterdam | 5.5–7.5 | 5.0–5.8 | 4.2–5.2 |
| Shenzhen → Enschede | 5.9–7.8 | 5.5–6.8 | 4.5–5.8 |
Case Example:
A Dutch fashion retailer imported 300 kg of apparel from Shanghai to Amsterdam. DFH booked an indirect flight, lowering costs to USD 4.6/kg, and the cargo arrived in 7 days.
But Again, the exactly unit price based on so many factors, such as the pick up address in china, delivery address in Netherlands and the charge weight, product name. So you need to contact your China freight forwarder to get the exactly price based on your detail information.
Sea Freight Costs from China to Netherlands
Sea freight is the cheapest option per CBM, but also the slowest. Rates vary depending on whether you choose LCL or FCL.
Average Sea Freight Rates (September 2025):
| Origin → Destination | LCL (USD/CBM) | 20GP (USD) | 40HQ (USD) | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shenzhen/Shanghai/Ningbo → Amsterdam | 35–80 | 1,350–1,960 | 2,020–2,800 | 28–35 days |
| Shenzhen/Shanghai/Ningbo → Rotterdam | 35–85 | 1,550–2,050 | 2,320–2,900 | 28–35 days |
Case Example:
A Dutch homeware importer shipped a 40HQ container from Ningbo to Rotterdam. Total cost: USD 6,400. Transit time: 50 days, with full DDP service including customs clearance and VAT.
This is only the example shipping price, the exactly price you need to prodive your shipment details and the shipping requirement. then your China Shipping agent will quote exactly for your reference soon.
Rail Freight Costs from China to Netherlands
Rail is faster than sea and cheaper than air. Rates depend on weight (LCL) or container type (FCL).
Average Rail Freight Rates (September 2025):
| Destination | ≥21 kg (USD/kg) | ≥100 kg (USD/kg) | ≥300 kg (USD/kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amsterdam | 3.5–4.8 | 2.8–4.2 | 2.2–3.5 |
| Rotterdam | 3.5–4.8 | 2.8–4.2 | 2.2–3.5 |
| Enschede | 3.5–4.8 | 2.8–4.2 | 2.2–3.5 |
Case Example:
A Dutch electronics distributor moved 12 CBM of LED equipment from Chengdu to Tilburg by rail. The shipment cost USD 3.0/kg, arriving in 20 days — nearly 15 days faster than sea freight.
Truck Freight Costs from China to Netherlands
Truck freight is growing in popularity for China–Europe trade routes.
Average Trucking Rates (September 2025):
| Cargo Type | Estimated Cost | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
| LCL (300–500 kg) | USD 3.5–4.5/kg | 20–25 days |
| FCL (40HQ) | USD 6,000–7,000/container | 20–25 days |
Case Example:
A Dutch fashion wholesaler imported 2,000 kg of apparel via DFH truck freight. Delivery took 20 days and cost USD 7,000, saving USD 3,500 compared to air freight.
How to Do the Customs Clearance from China to the Netherlands?
Customs clearance is one of the most important steps when importing goods from China into the Netherlands. A smooth clearance process ensures your cargo is released quickly, while mistakes in documents or declarations can cause delays, fines, or even seizure of goods.
The Netherlands follows EU customs regulations, so once your goods are cleared at a Dutch port (usually Rotterdam or Amsterdam), they can move freely across all EU member states.
Required Documents for Dutch Customs
To clear your shipment, you (or your freight forwarder) must prepare and submit the following documents:
- Commercial Invoice – Detailed description of goods, value, Incoterms.
- Packing List – Quantity, weight, and packaging details.
- Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB) – Proof of transport.
- Single Administrative Document (SAD) – Official EU customs declaration form.
- Certificate of Origin – Verifies where the goods were manufactured.
- Import License (if applicable) – Required for restricted items (weapons, hazardous materials, plants, animals).
- Compliance Certificates – CE, RoHS, REACH, or other EU conformity standards if required.
- EORI Number – An Economic Operator Registration and Identification number is mandatory for all EU importers.
Step-by-Step Customs Process in the Netherlands
Classify Your Goods
- Determine the correct HS code (Harmonized System code) for your product.
- The HS code will decide the import duty percentage.
Calculate Customs Value (CIF)
- CIF = Cost of goods + Insurance + Freight.
- Import duty and VAT are calculated on this CIF value.
Submit the Declaration
- Complete the SAD (Single Administrative Document) and submit electronically to Dutch Customs.
- Your freight forwarder or customs broker usually handles this step.
Pay Duties and VAT
- Import duties (0–17% depending on product).
- VAT (standard 21%, reduced 9% or 0% for specific goods like food or medicines).
- Excise duties may apply to alcohol, tobacco, and energy products.
Customs Inspection (If Required)
- Customs may physically inspect your shipment to verify accuracy.
- Having complete documents reduces the chance of inspection delays.
Cargo Release
- Once duties and VAT are paid, and the cargo passes inspection, Dutch Customs issues clearance.
- Goods are then ready for delivery to your warehouse, Amazon FBA, or final destination.
How Much Are the Duties & VAT for Shipping from China to the Netherlands?
When importing goods from China to the Netherlands, you must pay customs duties and VAT (Value Added Tax). These charges are mandatory and are collected by Dutch Customs on behalf of the EU.
Import Duties in the Netherlands
- The Netherlands follows the EU Common Customs Tariff (CCT).
- Import duty rates usually range from 0% to 17%, depending on the HS code (product classification).
- Some categories (e.g., electronics, textiles, plastics, furniture) have specific duty percentages.
- Products under special trade agreements may qualify for reduced or zero tariffs.
Example Duty Rates (2025):
- Electronics (HS 85): ~0–5%
- Furniture (HS 94): ~2–5%
- Textiles & Apparel (HS 61, 62): ~12%
- Toys (HS 95): ~4–6%
VAT in the Netherlands (2025)
- Standard VAT rate: 21%
- Reduced VAT rate: 9% (applies to food, medicines, books, and some essential goods)
- Zero rate (0%): Applies to specific exemptions, e.g., intra-EU trade or exports.
Important: VAT is calculated not just on the value of goods, but also on CIF (Cost + Insurance + Freight) + Import Duty + Excise (if applicable).
Formula to Calculate Duties & VAT
- Customs Value (CIF) = Goods Value + Freight + Insurance
- Import Duty = CIF × Duty %
- VAT = (CIF + Duty) × VAT %
Worked Example (2025)
A Dutch importer buys furniture worth USD 10,000 from China.
- Freight & insurance: USD 2,000
- HS Code Duty: 5%
- VAT: 21%
Step 1: CIF = 10,000 + 2,000 = 12,000
Step 2: Duty = 12,000 × 5% = 600
Step 3: VAT = (12,000 + 600) × 21% = 2,646
Total Import Taxes = 600 + 2,646 = USD 3,246
Final landed cost = USD 15,246
What Ports in Netherlands Can You Ship to From China?
Shipping from China to the Netherlands offers multiple port options, depending on whether you choose air freight or sea freight. Below, we’ve outlined the major airports and sea ports in the Netherlands that are commonly used for international shipping.
Major Airports in Netherlands
For air freight, the Netherlands has well-established airports equipped to handle large volumes of cargo. These airports provide excellent connectivity and efficient customs processing for goods arriving from China.
| Airport Name | IATA Code | Location | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amsterdam Airport Schiphol | AMS | Amsterdam, North Holland | The largest and busiest airport for cargo in the Netherlands. |
| Eindhoven Airport | EIN | Eindhoven, North Brabant | Popular for regional cargo shipments. |
| Maastricht Aachen Airport | MST | Maastricht, Limburg | Ideal for specialized or smaller air freight loads. |
| Rotterdam The Hague Airport | RTM | Rotterdam, South Holland | Handles supplemental cargo and regional shipments. |
Major Sea Ports in Netherlands
Sea freight to the Netherlands primarily utilizes its efficient and strategically located ports. These ports are known for handling large volumes of containerized and bulk cargo.
| Port Name | Location | Type of Cargo Handled | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Port of Rotterdam | Rotterdam, South Holland | Containers, bulk, and liquid cargo | Europe’s largest port, offering excellent global connectivity. |
| Port of Amsterdam | Amsterdam, North Holland | Containers, general, and bulk cargo | Second-largest port in the Netherlands, suitable for diverse cargo. |
| Port of Moerdijk | Moerdijk, North Brabant | Bulk and breakbulk cargo | Smaller but efficient for regional distribution. |
| Port of Vlissingen | Vlissingen, Zeeland | Containers and heavy industrial goods | Specialized in industrial and heavy-duty cargo shipments. |
Choosing the right port for your shipment depends on your logistics priorities. Airports are ideal for time-sensitive and high-value goods, while sea ports like Rotterdam excel in handling large, bulky shipments at a lower cost.
Door-to-Door Shipping from China to the Netherlands (DDU vs DDP)
Door-to-door shipping is the most convenient way to import goods from China to the Netherlands. Instead of only delivering to ports or airports, your cargo is delivered directly to your warehouse, office, or Amazon FBA center in the Netherlands. Importers can choose between DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid) and DDP (Delivered Duty Paid).
What is DDU Shipping?
- Definition: The seller/freight forwarder delivers goods to the buyer’s door, but the buyer is responsible for customs clearance, import duties, and VAT.
- Who Should Use It: Importers who already have an EORI number, VAT registration, and experience handling customs.
- Limitation: Extra paperwork, risk of delays at customs, and possible unexpected costs.
What is DDP Shipping?
- Definition: The seller/freight forwarder takes full responsibility — handling export clearance in China, customs clearance in the Netherlands, paying import duties & VAT, and last-mile delivery.
- Who Should Use It: Importers without local tax IDs or those who want a hassle-free, all-inclusive solution.
- Benefits of DFH DDP Service:
- Single all-in price (no hidden fees).
- We handle all customs declarations, VAT, and duties.
- Faster customs release since DFH uses local broker partnerships.
- Real-time tracking until final delivery.
Read more: What is DDP Shipping
DFH Door-to-Door Options (2025)
| Shipping Method | DDU Transit Time | DDP Transit Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Express Courier | 2–5 days | 2–5 days | Urgent parcels/samples |
| Air Freight | 6–12 days | 8–14 days | Medium cargo (100–500 kg) |
| Rail Freight | 28–32 days | 30–35 days | Larger shipments (5–15 CBM) |
| Truck Freight | 20–22 days | 22–25 days | Mid-volume cargo (300–2,000 kg) |
| Sea Freight | 30–35 days | 35–45 days | FCL/LCL bulk shipments |
DFH’s DDP Freight Service from China to the Netherlands – How It Works
At DFH Logistics, we manage every step of your shipment under DDP (Delivered Duty Paid). That means you pay one all-inclusive price, and we take care of the rest — from factory pickup in China to final delivery at your Dutch address.
Our DDP process includes:
Factory Pickup in China
- DFH arranges collection directly from your supplier.
- Multiple suppliers? We consolidate your cargo in our Shenzhen warehouse (30 days free storage).
Cargo Consolidation & Inspection
- Goods are combined into an FCL container or prepared for LCL.
- Optional services: quantity/quality check, repackaging, labeling for Amazon FBA.
Export Customs Declaration in China
- DFH prepares and submits all export documents.
- For suppliers without export rights, DFH acts as the exporter of record.
International Transportation
- Choose from sea, air, rail, or truck DDP routes.
- We book space at optimal cost and schedule.
Import Customs Clearance in the Netherlands
- DFH’s local broker partners in Rotterdam or Amsterdam clear the entire container.
- Duties and VAT are prepaid by DFH — no surprise bills.
Deconsolidation & Local Distribution
- Containers are unloaded at DFH’s overseas warehouse.
- Goods are sorted and prepared for final-mile delivery.
Final Delivery in the Netherlands
- Partner couriers such as UPS, DPD, DHL or local trucking companies handle the last leg.
- Direct delivery to your warehouse, office, or Amazon FBA fulfillment center.
Do I Have to Buy Cargo Insurance When Shipping from China to Netherlands?
Cargo insurance is an essential consideration when shipping goods internationally. While it is not legally required for shipments from China to the Netherlands, it is highly recommended. Having cargo insurance provides protection against potential risks such as damage, theft, or loss during transit, ensuring peace of mind and financial protection.
Why Should You Consider Cargo Insurance?
Protection from Risks:
- Shipping goods overseas can expose your cargo to various risks such as theft, damage, or unforeseen accidents. Cargo insurance helps mitigate the financial loss associated with such events.
Smooth Claims Process:
- In case of any incidents, having insurance in place will streamline the process of filing claims with your insurance provider. Without insurance, you will bear the full cost of the loss or damage.
Customs and Legal Protection:
- Cargo insurance can also cover issues related to customs clearance, helping to resolve potential complications with ease.
How Much Does Cargo Insurance Cost?
The cost of cargo insurance varies depending on the value of the goods being shipped, the destination, and the level of coverage you choose. Generally, insurance premiums range from 0.4% to 1% of the total value of the goods being transported.
Factors Affecting Cargo Insurance Costs:
- Value of Goods:
- Type of Coverage:
- Shipping Mode:
- Risk Profile:
How to Track the Shipping Status from China to the Netherlands?
Tracking your shipment is straightforward and helps you plan inventory more effectively.
- Express Couriers (DHL, UPS, FedEx): Enter the tracking number on the courier’s website for real-time updates.
- Air Freight: Use the Air Waybill (AWB) number on the airline’s cargo portal.
- Sea Freight: Track with your container or Bill of Lading (B/L) number on the shipping line’s site.
- Rail/Truck Freight: Updates are provided by your freight forwarder.
- Universal Option: Platforms like 17Track support multiple carriers and modes in one place.
Why Choose DFH Logistics for China–Netherlands Shipping?
At DFH Logistics, we are more than a freight forwarder — we are a trusted logistics partner for businesses of all sizes. With over 12 years of international shipping experience and a proven track record serving more than 20,000 clients worldwide, we understand the challenges importers face and deliver solutions that go beyond transportation.
What Makes DFH Different?
Competitive Shipping Costs & Optimized Transit Times
Through long-term partnerships with carriers and airlines, DFH secures competitive rates while ensuring timely delivery, even during peak seasons.Reliability and Safety First
Every shipment is handled with care, with repacking, labeling, and protective solutions available to minimize risks of loss or damage.True DDP Expertise
DFH specializes in DDP (Delivered Duty Paid), meaning we handle customs clearance, duties, and VAT — giving you a hassle-free import experience.Amazon FBA & E-Commerce Support
From FBA labeling to carton repacking and direct delivery to Dutch fulfillment centers, we help e-commerce sellers streamline operations.Customs Compliance Guaranteed
Our local partners in Rotterdam and Amsterdam ensure all shipments meet EU regulations, avoiding delays and fines.Value-Added Services
Free 30-day consolidation warehouse in Shenzhen, cargo insurance at discounted rates, and professional packaging solutions.
Real Case (2025)
Whether you are a first-time importer or an established wholesaler, DFH Logistics provides the transparency, reliability, and efficiency you need for smooth shipping from China to the Netherlands.
How to Ship with DFH Logistics (Step by Step)
Shipping from China to the Netherlands with DFH Logistics is a straightforward and transparent process. We manage each stage carefully to ensure that your goods move smoothly from supplier to destination.
Step 1: Share Your Shipment Details
Provide us with the product description, weight, volume, pickup address in China, and your delivery address in the Netherlands. This allows us to recommend the most suitable shipping method.
Step 2: Supplier Coordination
We contact your supplier to confirm pickup arrangements and required export documents. If you buy from multiple suppliers, DFH offers free consolidation service in our Shenzhen warehouse.
Step 3: Cargo Inspection and Preparation
Our warehouse team checks packaging, labels, and carton condition. If needed, we repack or relabel to meet Dutch customs or Amazon FBA requirements.
Step 4: Confirm Quote and Payment
You will receive a clear, all-inclusive quote. Once confirmed, you make payment using your preferred method, such as bank transfer, PayPal, or Wise.
Step 5: Export Customs in China
DFH handles export declarations. If your supplier does not have export rights, we act as the exporter of record.
Step 6: International Shipping
Depending on your choice, we ship your goods by sea, air, rail, truck, or express courier. We provide real-time tracking throughout the journey.
Step 7: Import Customs Clearance in the Netherlands
Our Dutch partners manage customs clearance, duties, and VAT under DDP shipping. If you prefer DDU, we assist you with the required paperwork.
Step 8: Final Delivery
Your goods are delivered directly to your warehouse, office, or Amazon FBA fulfillment center in the Netherlands. We ensure safe handling during the last mile.
By following these steps, we make the entire process simple and stress-free. Whether you are shipping a small parcel or a full container, our experienced team ensures smooth customs clearance and timely delivery.
FAQs about Shipping from China to the Netherlands
1. What is the cheapest way to ship from China to the Netherlands?
For large shipments (over 2–3 CBM), sea freight (LCL or FCL) is the most cost-effective. For medium shipments, rail or truck freight often balances speed and cost better than air freight.
2. How long does it take for my goods to arrive from China?
- Express courier: 2–5 days
- Air freight: 6–12 days
- Rail freight: 16–20 days station-to-station, 28–35 days door-to-door
- Truck freight: 20–25 days
- Sea freight: 30–40 days door-to-door
3. Do I need an EORI number to import into the Netherlands?
Yes, an EORI number is required for EU customs clearance. If you ship with DFH under DDP terms, we can handle customs and duties for you, so you don’t need to use your own EORI.
4. Can DFH deliver directly to Amazon FBA in the Netherlands?
Yes. DFH provides FBA labeling, repacking, carton prep, and direct delivery to Amazon fulfillment centers in the Netherlands under DDP terms.
5. Is cargo insurance necessary?
It is strongly recommended, especially for high-value shipments. DFH offers all-risk cargo insurance at discounted rates.
6. What is included in DFH’s DDP service?
- Pickup from your Chinese supplier
- Check goods quality and quantity
- Export declaration
- International shipping (air, sea, rail, or truck)
- Import customs clearance in the Netherlands
- Duties and VAT prepaid
- Final delivery to your address or Amazon FBA
7. Can I ship personal items from China to the Netherlands?
Yes. DFH handles both commercial cargo and personal shipments. With DDP service, even individuals without an import license can receive goods hassle-free.
9. What goods are restricted or prohibited?
Items such as weapons, chemicals, counterfeit products, and certain batteries may be restricted. Always confirm with DFH before shipping to avoid customs problems.
10. Do I have to pay customs duties twice if my goods transit through another EU country?
No. The Netherlands is part of the EU customs union. Once cleared in the Netherlands, your goods can move freely to other EU member states without paying extra duties.
11. Can DFH consolidate shipments from multiple suppliers?
Yes. DFH offers free 30-day consolidation in Shenzhen. Goods from different suppliers can be combined into one shipment, saving on shipping costs.
12. What happens if my shipment is delayed at customs?
Delays usually occur due to missing documents, wrong HS codes, or compliance checks. DFH minimizes this risk by preparing all paperwork in advance and working with local Dutch customs brokers.