The top 10 freight forwarders from China to the Netherlands in 2025 are DFH Logistics, Dimerco Netherlands, Great Link Shipping, ABL Logistics, Ritra Cargo Holland, Van Thiel Transport, Freightos, SINO Shipping, Agora Freight, and Embassy Freight Netherlands.
Importing from China to the Netherlands remains one of the most common and strategically important trade routes in Europe. Rotterdam serves as Europe’s largest deep-sea port and Amsterdam Schiphol is a major air cargo hub, making the Netherlands a key gateway for goods entering the EU market. Many businesses nevertheless encounter challenges such as customs delays, unclear total landed costs, and complicated VAT liability.
After 12+ years in freight forwarding with DFH Logistics, I’ve helped many companies streamline these processes and improve predictability in their supply chains.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to choose the right partner, understand your options, and evaluate the leading freight forwarders for China–Netherlands shipments.
How We Selected the Top 10 Freight Forwarders from China to Netherlands
Ranking criteria combine verified service capability, real customer feedback, and operational strength across key Holland gateways.
| Evaluation Factor | Weight (%) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Reliability & On-Time Delivery | 30 | Historical performance in meeting timelines and handling exceptions (customs issues, delays). |
| DDP Capability (Sea & Air) | 25 | Ability to clear Dutch customs, prepay VAT, and arrange final delivery. |
| Pricing Transparency | 20 | Clear DDP quotes that include freight, customs, VAT, duties, and destination fees. |
| Network & Port Coverage | 15 | Presence in Chinese export hubs (Shenzhen, Shanghai, Ningbo) and Dutch gateways (Rotterdam, Amsterdam). |
| Customer Support & Documentation | 10 | Communication quality, accuracy of HS codes, CE compliance, and EORI handling. |
Conflict of Interest Statement: DFH Logistics is included using the same evaluation framework as all other companies. Our aim is an objective, data-driven comparison to help importers make informed decisions.
What to Consider When Choosing a Freight Forwarder from China to the Netherlands
A dependable freight forwarder should deliver clarity, compliance, and smooth execution — not just transport.
Before you commit to any partner, assess them on the following:
1. Customs & Dutch VAT/EORI Expertise
The Netherlands applies 21 % VAT on most imports. Your forwarder must handle Dutch EORI registration and VAT pre-payment, especially under DDP terms, to avoid customs holds in Rotterdam or Amsterdam.
2. Multimodal Options & Transit Speed
Sea freight is economical but slower (25–40 days), while air freight is fastest (3–7 days). Rail and overland routes via Europe can balance speed and cost. A strong forwarder presents and compares all viable options.:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
3. Transparent Door-to-Door Pricing
Hidden fees at destination ports — such as terminal handling, customs release, and inland trucking — can drastically increase costs. Ask for a total landed cost DDP quote including all charges.
4. Local Dutch Support
Forwarders working with local Dutch agents or branches provide faster customs clearance, VAT handling, and last-mile delivery to cities like Rotterdam, Amsterdam, Eindhoven, and Utrecht.
5. Real-Time Communication & Tracking
Good communication reduces misunderstandings and surprises. Ensure your forwarder provides English/Dutch updates and dependable shipment tracking throughout the transport lifecycle.
Available Shipping Methods from China to Netherlands
Selecting the right method depends on cargo type, cost priorities, and delivery urgency. Below are the main options for China–Netherlands importers:
| Method | Description | Transit Time (Approx.) | Cost Range (USD/kg or per CBM) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air Freight (Port-to-Port) | Fast delivery to Amsterdam Schiphol with competitive schedules. | 3 – 7 days | ≈ $5 – $10 /kg | Urgent goods (30–500 kg), high-value cargo |
| DDP Air Freight (Door-to-Door) | Includes pickup, export clearance, Dutch import customs, VAT and final delivery. | 6 – 12 days | ≈ $6 – $12 /kg | Time-sensitive shipments needing customs included |
| Sea Freight (Port-to-Port) | Economical for large volumes via Shanghai/Ningbo → Rotterdam/Amsterdam. | 25 – 35 days | Per CBM or per container | Large or heavy cargo (≥ 1 CBM) |
| DDP Sea Freight (Door-to-Door) | All-inclusive sea transit with customs clearance and VAT prepaid. | 40 – 55 days | ≈ $1.8 – $3.8 /kg or per CBM | Cost-efficient for bulk shipments |
| Rail Freight (China–Europe) | Sustainable middle ground connecting China to Western Europe including Netherlands. | 28 – 35 days | ≈ $2.5 – $4 /kg | Medium volume shipments balancing cost & time |
| Truck Freight (Overland) | Overland route through Central Asia and Europe into the Netherlands. | 18 – 25 days | ≈ $2.8 – $5 /kg | Mid-range cargo needing flexible door delivery |
| Express Courier (DHL/UPS/FedEx) | Fastest small parcel option with full door-to-door service. | 2 – 7 days | ≈ $6 – $15 /kg | Parcels < 50 kg or urgent samples |
Transit times and prices vary based on season, cargo size, and origin/destination specifics. Always request a customized quotation to confirm your actual landed cost before booking.
Some clients combine methods — such as Sea + Express or Rail + Express or Truck + Express — to reduce cost while keeping delivery windows reasonable. DFH Logistics can tailor your route to meet specific timing or budget needs.
Top 10 Freight Forwarders from China to Netherlands
Here’s a comparison of trusted freight forwarders active on the China–Netherlands lane, covering DDP, air, sea, and multimodal options.
| Rank | Freight Forwarder | Strengths | Main Routes | DDP Capability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | DFH Logistics | DDP air & sea freight with customs clearance, VAT prepaid, free 30-day warehousing in Shenzhen | Shenzhen, Shanghai, Ningbo → Rotterdam / Amsterdam | ✅ Air & Sea DDP | Amazon sellers, SMEs, bulk cargo |
| 2 | Dimerco Netherlands | Air and sea solutions with offices in Amsterdam and Rotterdam | China → AMS / RTM | ✅ Air & Sea | Large enterprises needing EU compliance |
| 3 | Great Link Shipping | Specialist in China–Europe DDP shipping with rail and truck combination | Yiwu / Chongqing → Rotterdam / Eindhoven | ✅ Rail & Truck | Medium-size importers balancing speed & cost |
| 4 | ABL Logistics | EU-certified forwarder handling FCL, LCL, and project cargo | China ports → Rotterdam / Antwerp | ✅ Sea | Industrial shipments & oversized cargo |
| 5 | Ritra Cargo Holland | Dutch forwarder with strong retail & fashion sector experience | Shanghai / Ningbo → Rotterdam | ✅ Sea | Retailers and textile importers |
| 6 | Van Thiel Transport | Netherlands-based LTL and door-delivery specialist | China → Eindhoven / Utrecht | ❌ | Inland distribution within Benelux |
| 7 | Freightos | Digital rate comparison and instant quote platform | Global | ❌ | Businesses comparing multiple forwarders |
| 8 | Agora Freight | Tech-driven forwarder offering AI-based pricing tools and multimodal tracking | China → EU (AMS hub) | ✅ Rail | SMEs seeking digital visibility |
| 9 | Embassy Freight Netherlands | Rotterdam-based forwarder handling sea & air imports from Asia | China → Rotterdam / Amsterdam | ✅ Sea | Dutch importers needing local customs expertise |
| 10 | SINO Shipping | Strong China–EU network with EU DDP and consolidation services | Shenzhen / Guangzhou → Rotterdam | ✅ Air & Sea | SMEs wanting tax-included quotes |
Note: These companies are selected based on reputation, verified lane operations, and online visibility for China–Netherlands trade. Rates and DDP availability depend on shipment type.
Netherlands Import Regulations and Customs Essentials
Smooth importing into the Netherlands requires EU compliance and accurate VAT management.
1. EORI & VAT Registration
Every EU importer must have an EORI number. Dutch VAT (21 %) is collected on CIF + duty value. Under DDP shipping, the forwarder pre-pays these taxes for the buyer, simplifying customs clearance.
Learn more at Netherlands Customs Authority.
2. Product Compliance (CE, REACH, RoHS)
Most consumer products require EU CE marking and REACH/RoHS compliance. Ensure your supplier provides valid declarations before shipping.
3. Main Ports & Air Hubs
- Rotterdam Port: Europe’s largest container terminal and primary gateway for China imports.
- Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: Major hub for air freight distribution across Europe.
- Venlo and Eindhoven: Key rail and road distribution centers.
4. Typical Transit Times
- DDP Sea Freight: 30 – 45 days
- DDP Air Freight: 6 – 12 days
- Rail Freight: 28 – 35 days
- Truck Freight: 20 – 28 days
Case Study: Shenzhen to Rotterdam — Clothes Shipment
Example: A Dutch Client whole sale clothes from Dongguan City Guangdong Province.
DFH Logistics arranged pickup, re-packing, export clearance, and door-to-door DDP air shipping to Rotterdam.
The client avoided customs delays and reduced total shipping cost by ≈ 35 % compared to CIF terms.
Case Study: Shenzhen to Rotterdam — Electric Shipment
Example: A Dutch Client whole sale Electric from Shenzhen City Guangdong Province.
DFH Logistics arranged pickup, re-packing, export clearance, and door-to-door DDP air shipping to Rotterdam.
The client avoided customs delays and reduced total shipping cost by ≈ 25 % compared to FOB terms.
FAQs About Shipping from China to Netherlands
1. What’s the cheapest way to ship from China to the Netherlands?
Usually DDP Sea Freight for cargo ≥ 1 CBM; all taxes and duties included. and Expess freight for Small shipments and urgent shipments.
2. Do I need an EORI number for DDP shipping?
No. Under DDP, the forwarder acts as the importer of record and uses their EORI.
3. Can I ship electronics or batteries by air to the Netherlands?
Yes, but products must meet UN 38.3 and MSDS requirements and be handled by IATA-approved forwarders.
4. How long does shipping take from China to Netherlands?
Air ≈ 6 – 12 days; Sea ≈ 30 – 45 days; Rail ≈ 28 – 35 days; Truck ≈ 20 – 28 days.
5. Can DFH deliver to Amazon NL FBA warehouses?
Yes — our DDP air and sea services can deliver directly to FBA centers across the Netherlands and EU.
6. Should I buy cargo insurance?
Yes. Cargo insurance (~0.3–0.5 % of cargo value) protects against loss or damage during transit.
Why Choose DFH Logistics for Your China-to-Netherlands Shipments
With 12+ years of international experience, DFH Logistics offers tailor-made solutions for Dutch importers and EU partners.
1. All-inclusive DDP Solutions
We handle pickup, consolidation, export declaration, customs clearance, VAT payment, and final delivery — all covered in one invoice.
2. Strong European Network
DFH works with local agents in Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and Eindhoven for faster customs processing and inland distribution.
3. Compliance Assurance
Our team reviews CE, REACH, and EORI documents before shipment to avoid inspection delays.
4. Value-added Services
- Free 30-day warehouse in Shenzhen
- Cargo inspection with photo/video proof
- Repacking & labeling for Amazon or EU retail requirements
- Insurance and real-time tracking
5. Dedicated Account Manager
A bilingual logistics specialist supports you from pickup to delivery for full visibility and personalized service.
Conclusion
Shipping from China to the Netherlands is straightforward when you choose a forwarder with solid EU experience and transparent DDP pricing.
Whether you ship electronics, machinery, or consumer goods, DFH Logistics manages every step — customs, VAT, delivery — so you can focus on your business.
