Shipping from Alibaba to Belgium: Complete Guide for Importers and Businesses (2025)

Importing from Alibaba to Belgium is a growing trend among both established wholesalers and small e-commerce businesses. With competitive product pricing, access to a wide range of suppliers, and fast-growing trade links between China and Europe, Belgium importers increasingly rely on Alibaba as a sourcing hub.

However, buying from Alibaba is only the first step. The real challenge lies in shipping the goods safely and cost-effectively from China to Belgium, navigating customs clearance, handling VAT, and choosing the right shipping method. This guide, written from the perspective of DFH Logistics with over 12 years of freight forwarding experience, explains everything you need to know—from shipping methods to costs, DDP solutions, and compliance tips.

Why buy from Alibaba and ship to Belgium?

Alibaba has become a preferred platform for Belgian importers because of its wide product range, competitive pricing, and direct access to Chinese manufacturers.

Key advantages for Belgian businesses sourcing from Alibaba:

• Lower sourcing costs: Chinese factories can offer significantly cheaper products compared to EU suppliers.
• Diverse product categories: Electronics, fashion, furniture, auto parts, and household goods are among the top imports into Belgium.
• Scalability: Whether ordering a small trial shipment or multiple containers, Alibaba suppliers can meet varying business needs.

Belgium’s strategic location in Europe—with major ports like Antwerp and Zeebrugge—also makes it an ideal gateway for imports. This means products purchased from Alibaba can not only supply the Belgian market but also be easily redistributed across the EU.

How does shipping work on Alibaba, and should you let your supplier handle it?

When you order products on Alibaba, shipping can be arranged in two main ways:

1. Supplier arranges the shipping

• Most suppliers offer to handle shipping directly to Belgium.
• They may use Alibaba’s official logistics service (Cainiao) or international couriers like DHL, FedEx, or UPS.
• This works well for samples or very small parcels, since it’s simple and fast.

Limitations:

• High costs for bulky or heavy cargo.
• Limited options: suppliers usually choose the cheapest forwarder, not always the most reliable.
• Lack of control: you don’t manage the logistics chain and may face unexpected delays.
• Customs risks: suppliers rarely take responsibility for Belgian customs clearance, VAT, or EORI requirements.

2. You arrange shipping through your own freight forwarder

• Your supplier prepares the goods and delivers them to your forwarder’s warehouse in China.
• A professional forwarder (like DFH Logistics) then handles:
  • Pickup and consolidation from multiple suppliers
  • Export customs in China
  • International transport (air, sea, rail, truck, or DDP)
  • Belgian customs clearance, duty & VAT payment
  • Final-mile delivery to your warehouse, shop, or Amazon FBA

Advantages:

• Full control over cost, timing, and shipping method
• Transparent pricing with no hidden markups
• Hassle-free customs clearance and compliance with EU regulations
• Flexibility to combine multiple shipments into one container to save cost

Which option is better for Belgian importers?

• For small sample orders, letting the supplier ship may be acceptable.
• For larger or business-critical shipments, it’s safer to use your own freight forwarder. This ensures your goods are shipped reliably, at the best rate, and clear Belgian customs without issues.

In short:
On Alibaba, suppliers can arrange shipping, but Belgian importers who want transparency, compliance, and predictable delivery times should work with their own forwarder. That’s why many importers trust DFH Logistics to manage the entire process end-to-end.

What are the shipping methods from Alibaba to Belgium?

When importing from Alibaba to Belgium, you have several shipping methods to choose from. The best option depends on your cargo size, delivery speed requirements, and budget.

1. Express Courier (DHL, FedEx, UPS)

• Transit time: 3–7 business days
• Best for: Small parcels under 100 kg
• Advantages: Fast, door-to-door service, includes customs clearance
• Limitations: Expensive for bulky or heavy shipments

2. Air Freight

• Transit time: 5–12 business days (China to your doorstep)
• Best for: 100–500 kg shipments or urgent cargo
• Advantages: Faster than sea freight, more economical than express for mid-sized cargo
• Limitations: Customs clearance and final delivery in Belgium may require extra arrangements unless using DDP

3. Sea Freight (LCL & FCL)

• Transit time: 40–45 days (door-to-door)
• LCL (Less than Container Load): Ideal for 1–15 CBM shipments
• FCL (Full Container Load): Best for 15+ CBM or large orders; shipped via Antwerp or Zeebrugge
• Advantages: Lowest cost for large cargo volumes
• Limitations: Long transit times compared to air

4. Railway Freight (China–Europe Rail)

• Transit time: 30–35 days
• Best for: Medium-sized shipments needing faster delivery than sea freight at a lower cost than air freight
• Route: China → Kazakhstan → Russia → Poland → Belgium (via trucking from rail hub)
• Advantages: Balance of speed and cost, environmentally friendly
• Limitations: Limited space and not suitable for all cargo types

5. Truck Freight

• Transit time: 15–25 days
• Best for: Flexible, door-to-door transport for mid-sized shipments
• Popular for: E-commerce sellers distributing goods across the EU
• Advantages: Faster than sea freight, direct delivery
• Limitations: Less economical for very large shipments

6. DDP Shipping (Delivered Duty Paid)

• Available via: Air, sea, rail, and truck
• Transit time: 7–12 days (air DDP), 40–45 days (sea DDP), 15-25 days (Truck DDP), 30-35 days （Rail DDP)
• Advantages: All-in-one solution including pickup, export customs, shipping, Belgian customs clearance, VAT, and final delivery
• Best for: Businesses without EORI/VAT numbers, Amazon sellers, and small importers
• Limitations: Must choose a reliable forwarder to avoid compliance issues

Comparison Table: Shipping from Alibaba to Belgium

What is DDP shipping from Alibaba to Belgium?

DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) is one of the most convenient shipping methods for Belgian importers buying from Alibaba. Under DDP terms, your freight forwarder (or supplier’s agent) manages the entire logistics process from China to Belgium, including customs clearance and tax payments.

How DDP shipping works

1. Pickup from your supplier’s factory or warehouse in China.
2. Export customs declaration handled in China.
3. International transport by air, sea, rail, or truck.
4. Import customs clearance in Belgium, including VAT and duties.
5. Final delivery to your address, Amazon FBA center, or third-party warehouse.

Benefits of DDP shipping

• Hassle-free import: You don’t need an EORI number or VAT registration.
• All-inclusive pricing: Freight, duties, and VAT are included in one fixed quote.
• Door-to-door delivery: From the Chinese supplier to your Belgian address.
• Time savings: Avoid delays caused by incorrect paperwork or customs issues.

When to choose DDP shipping

• If you are a first-time importer without customs experience.
• If you sell on Amazon FBA Belgium or other EU marketplaces that require smooth delivery.
• If you want a predictable cost structure without surprise customs bills.

Note: Not all DDP offers on Alibaba are reliable. Some suppliers under-declare cargo value, which can cause penalties at Belgian customs. To avoid this, work with a trusted forwarder like DFH Logistics, ensuring compliance and timely delivery.

How much does it cost to ship from Alibaba to Belgium?

The cost of shipping from Alibaba to Belgium varies depending on the shipping method, cargo size, and whether you choose DDP (all-inclusive) or standard shipping.

Key factors affecting cost

• Shipping method: Express, air, sea, rail, or truck
• Cargo weight & volume: Air freight is charged by chargeable weight (kg), while sea freight is charged by CBM (cubic meter)
• Destination in Belgium: Final-mile delivery to Brussels, Antwerp, or other cities may add trucking costs
• Duties & VAT: If not using DDP, importers must pay 21% Belgian VAT plus customs duty based on HS codes

Average cost estimates (from China to Belgium)

Tip for Belgian importers: Always compare at least two methods (e.g., Air vs. DDP, LCL vs. FCL). DFH Logistics provides customized quotes to optimize cost while meeting delivery deadlines.

What is the cheapest way to ship from Alibaba to Belgium?

For Belgian importers, the cheapest shipping method from Alibaba depends mainly on the volume and urgency of the cargo.

1. Sea Freight (LCL & FCL)

• FCL (Full Container Load): Best for large shipments above 15–20 CBM. It offers the lowest cost per unit.
• LCL (Less than Container Load): Ideal for shipments above 1 CBM but less than a full container. Cost is shared with other shippers.
• Ports: Most shipments arrive via Antwerp or Zeebrugge, Belgium’s major ports.

2. Railway Freight

• Transit time: 30–35 days.
• Cheaper than air, faster than sea.
• Works well for medium-sized shipments where cost control and delivery time are equally important.

3. DDP Sea Freight

• For importers without EORI or VAT numbers, DDP sea freight is often the cheapest all-in solution.
• Includes freight, customs clearance, VAT, and duties in a single fixed quote.
• Removes the risk of surprise bills on arrival.

Cost-saving tips for Belgian importers

• Consolidate shipments: Combine multiple Alibaba orders into one container to save on freight and clearance costs.
• Plan shipments in advance: Avoid peak season surcharges around Christmas and Chinese New Year.
• Use professional packaging: Proper packing reduces volume and prevents wasted CBM charges.
• Compare methods: Sometimes a slightly higher freight cost (e.g., rail vs. sea) can reduce warehousing and cash flow pressure.

Conclusion:
The absolute cheapest way to ship from Alibaba to Belgium is usually sea freight (FCL or LCL). However, for importers needing compliance and simplicity, DDP sea freight offers the best balance between low cost and hassle-free delivery.

Do you need an EORI or VAT number to import from Alibaba to Belgium?

!import from Alibaba to Belgium?](https://dfhlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/DFH-Logistics-16.jpg)

When importing from Alibaba to Belgium, most businesses need both an EORI number and a VAT number—unless they use DDP shipping.

What is an EORI number?

• EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) is required for all businesses importing goods into the EU.
• It allows Belgian Customs to track and process your shipments.
• Without an EORI, your goods cannot clear customs.

What about VAT?

• Belgium applies a standard 21% VAT on imports.
• Registered Belgian businesses with a VAT number can reclaim this VAT in their tax returns.
• If you don’t have a VAT number, the VAT becomes a non-recoverable cost added to your landed price.

When you don’t need EORI or VAT

• If you use DDP shipping (Delivered Duty Paid), your freight forwarder acts as the official importer.
• They use their own EORI and VAT registration to clear customs.
• You receive your goods in Belgium with all duties and VAT already paid.

Tip for Belgian importers:

• New businesses or Amazon sellers without import licenses often start with DDP shipping.
• Established Belgian companies should register for EORI and VAT to gain full control and reclaim VAT.

How is Belgium customs clearance handled when shipping from Alibaba?

When goods arrive in Belgium from Alibaba—usually through the Port of Antwerp, Port of Zeebrugge, or airports like Brussels and Liège—they must pass through customs clearance before release.

Steps in Belgian customs clearance

1. Arrival notice: Carrier submits shipment information to Belgian Customs.
2. Import declaration: Importer or freight forwarder files a declaration with HS codes, product values, and supplier details.
3. Duties & VAT assessment: Customs calculates import duty (depending on HS code) and 21% VAT.
4. Inspection (if required): Customs may request physical inspection or product compliance certificates (CE, RoHS, REACH).
5. Release of goods: Once duties and VAT are paid, cargo is released for delivery across Belgium or other EU countries.

Required documents

• Commercial invoice
• Packing list
• Bill of Lading (for sea) or Air Waybill (for air)
• EORI number (unless using DDP)
• Certificates or licenses for restricted goods

Common challenges for Belgian importers

• Incorrect HS codes → higher duty rates or delays
• Under-declared values → risk of fines and shipment seizure
• Missing compliance certificates (especially electronics, toys, medical products) → goods held at customs

How DFH Logistics helps

• We ensure accurate documentation before goods leave China.
• Correct HS code classification to avoid overpaying duties.
• Provide DDP shipping options, where DFH handles Belgian customs clearance, VAT, and duty payments.
• Ensure compliance with EU product standards, reducing clearance risks.

Tip: Belgian customs are strict with product compliance. If your goods need CE or REACH certification, confirm this with your supplier before shipping. DFH Logistics can guide you through compliance requirements to avoid costly delays.

How long does it take to ship from Alibaba to Belgium?

The delivery time from Alibaba suppliers in China to Belgium depends on the shipping method, as well as customs clearance and final delivery arrangements.

Average transit times by shipping method

• Express Courier (DHL, UPS, FedEx): 3–7 business days
• Air Freight: 5–12 business days (China to your doorstep)
• Sea Freight (LCL/FCL): 40–45 days (door-to-door, via Antwerp or Zeebrugge)
• Railway Freight (China–Europe Rail): 30–35 days (via Poland, then trucking into Belgium)
• Truck Freight: 15–25 days (direct road freight from China to Belgium)
• DDP Shipping: 7–15 days by air DDP, 35–45 days by sea DDP

Factors affecting delivery time

1. Peak seasons: Shipments may face delays during Chinese New Year or Christmas.
2. Customs clearance: Incorrect paperwork can extend clearance by several days.
3. Port congestion: Antwerp, one of Europe’s busiest ports, sometimes experiences container handling delays.
4. Final-mile delivery: Deliveries outside Brussels or Antwerp may take extra time.

Example scenarios

• A sample order via DHL Express may arrive in 5 days.
• A 200 kg air freight shipment from Shenzhen to Brussels typically takes 7–10 days including clearance.
• A 10 CBM sea freight LCL shipment from Shanghai to Antwerp can take 40–45 days.

Tip for Belgian importers:
If timing is critical, use air freight or express courier. For cost-sensitive bulk cargo, sea freight remains the best option. A forwarder like DFH Logistics can also design multimodal solutions (e.g., rail + truck) to balance cost and delivery time.

What is the best shipping method from Alibaba to Belgium?

The best shipping method from Alibaba to Belgium depends on your cargo size, budget, and urgency. Each method has different advantages:

Best by shipment type

• For small urgent shipments (<100 kg):
  Use Express Courier (DHL, UPS, FedEx) for 3–7 day delivery.

• For mid-sized shipments (100–500 kg):
  Air Freight is faster than sea and cheaper than express. Transit time is typically 5–12 days.

• For large shipments (>1 CBM):
  Sea Freight (LCL or FCL) is the most economical choice. FCL is ideal for full container loads over 20 CBM.

• For balanced speed and cost:
  Railway Freight offers 30–35 day delivery, faster than sea but more affordable than air.

• For importers without EORI/VAT:
  DDP Shipping (air or sea) is the simplest solution since it includes customs clearance, VAT, and duties.

Why choose DFH Logistics for shipping from Alibaba to Belgium?

With over 12 years of experience in international freight forwarding, DFH Logistics has helped thousands of importers—from small e-commerce sellers to large wholesalers—ship smoothly from China to Belgium.

Why Belgian importers trust DFH Logistics

1. End-to-end solutions: We handle everything from supplier pickup in China to final delivery in Belgium.
2. DDP expertise: We specialize in Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) shipping, perfect for businesses without EORI/VAT numbers.
3. Multiple transport options: Express, air, sea (LCL/FCL), rail, truck, or multimodal—tailored to your needs.
4. Cost-effective service: Transparent, competitive pricing with no hidden fees.
5. Free consolidation & warehousing: 30 days of free storage in Shenzhen, with supplier consolidation services.
6. Compliance assurance: We ensure your goods meet EU import requirements (CE, RoHS, REACH), avoiding customs delays.
7. Amazon FBA support: Labeling, packaging, and direct delivery to Amazon warehouses across the EU.

The DFH Logistics difference

• Many importers who came to us had faced hidden charges, shipment delays, and poor communication with other forwarders.
• DFH solves these problems with clear pricing, reliable delivery, and responsive customer support.
• Our Belgian clients say working with us saves them time, stress, and unexpected costs.

In short:
DFH Logistics is not just a shipping provider—we act as your strategic logistics partner in China, ensuring your imports to Belgium are smooth, compliant, and cost-efficient.

Conclusion

Importing from Alibaba to Belgium offers great opportunities for both small e-commerce sellers and established businesses. With competitive pricing and access to a wide range of suppliers, Alibaba is a powerful sourcing platform. However, the real challenge lies in choosing the right shipping method, ensuring customs compliance, and managing VAT obligations.

• For urgent small shipments, Express Courier is the fastest option.
• For mid-sized cargo, Air Freight balances speed and cost.
• For large orders, Sea Freight (FCL/LCL) provides the lowest per-unit cost.
• For importers without EORI or VAT numbers, DDP shipping is the most convenient and stress-free solution.

At DFH Logistics, we simplify the entire process—from supplier pickup in China, export customs clearance, international shipping, Belgian customs clearance, VAT & duty payment, to final delivery. With 12+ years of expertise, we ensure your goods arrive on time, at the best rate, and fully compliant with EU import regulations.

Ready to ship from Alibaba to Belgium?
Contact DFH Logistics today for a customized shipping quote. Let us handle the logistics, so you can focus on growing your business in Belgium and across Europe.