With the continuous development of global trade, the transportation of goods between China and the Netherlands has become increasingly frequent. As an important trade transit point in the European Union, the Netherlands handles a large number of goods imported from China. This article will introduce the cost of shipping from China to the Netherlands in detail.
Shipping from China to the Netherlands
Sea Freight
The most common mode of transportation by sea, especially for bulk commodities, durable goods and standardized products. It is mainly container transportation, and its main advantages are its efficiency, reusability and global coverage. Container transportation is mainly divided into two services: FCL and LCL.
- Full container transportation (FCL): refers to renting an entire container for your goods. Suitable for large goods because it ensures that your goods are transported separately and do not share container space with other goods. For goods over 15-20 cubic meters, FCL is usually more cost-effective and has lower freight per unit.
- Less than container transportation (LCL): allows you to share container space with other shippers. This is a suitable option for small goods that do not need to fill a full container.
Air Freight
For businesses that need to ship goods from China to the Netherlands quickly and reliably, air freight is the best option. This mode of transport is ideal for high-value, time-sensitive or perishable items that need to reach their destination quickly.
Rail Freight
In recent years, with the rapid development of China-Europe Express, rail transport has become an emerging option from China to the Netherlands. Rail transport is suitable for bulk goods, faster than sea transport, cheaper than air transport, and is a cost-effective option.
Composition of Shipping Cost from China to the Netherlands
Transportation costs include not only basic freight, but may also involve the following costs:
- Basic freight: including basic costs for sea, air or rail transportation.
- Port handling fees: including container loading and unloading, storage and transshipment costs.
- Customs clearance fees: customs clearance-related fees that need to be paid when goods enter the Netherlands.
- Insurance: In order to prevent losses during transportation, insurance is one of the costs that must be considered.
- Taxes and tariffs: Value-added tax (VAT) and other tariffs that may be involved when importing goods into the Netherlands.
Shipping Cost from China to the Netherlands
The main modes of transporting goods from China to the Netherlands include sea, air and rail transport. Each different mode has different costs. The following are different cost standards:
Sea Freight Cost from China to the Netherlands
After the goods depart from Chinese ports, the containers will pass through the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea, bypass the Strait of Hormuz and enter the European waters, and arrive at the Port of Rotterdam in the Netherlands, one of the most important cargo ports in Europe. The following is the cost standard range:
| POL (port of loading) | POD (port of discharge) | LCL shipping cost | 20ft container cost | 40ft container cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | Rotterdam | $60-$125 | $2050-$3550 | $3000-$4800 |
| Shenzhen | Rotterdam | $55-$130 | $2100-$3600 | $3050-$4850 |
| Qingdao | Rotterdam | $70-$120 | $2050-$3450 | $3050-$4750 |
| Ningbo | Rotterdam | $55-$135 | $1900-$3300 | $3150-$4850 |
| Shanghai | Amsterdam | $65-$120 | $2950-$3650 | $3050-$4700 |
| Shenzhen | Amsterdam | $50-$135 | $2000-$3500 | $3000-$4800 |
| Qingdao | Amsterdam | $60-$135 | $2150-$3450 | $3050-$4750 |
| Ningbo | Amsterdam | $55-$125 | $2000-$3550 | $2950-$4850 |
| Shanghai | Zeeland | $60-$130 | $2000-$3500 | $3150-$4750 |
| Shenzhen | Zeeland | $75-$120 | $1900-$3300 | $3000-$4900 |
| Qingdao | Zeeland | $60-$130 | $2000-$3500 | $3100-$4800 |
| Ningbo | Zeeland | $75-$125 | $2150-$3450 | $3050-$4950 |
Air Freight Cost from China to the Netherlands
Air freight usually takes less time, about 5-7 days from China to the Netherlands. The cost of air freight is affected by the weight, volume, destination and transportation company of the goods.
| Departure Airport (China) | Arrival Airport (Netherlands) | Cost Range (USD/kg) |
| Shanghai Pudong | Amsterdam Schiphol | $5.0 – $10.2 |
| Guangzhou Baiyun | Amsterdam Schiphol | $6.3 – $9.8 |
| Beijing Capital | Amsterdam Schiphol | $5.5 – $11.7 |
| Shanghai Pudong | Eindhoven | $5.8 – $10.6 |
| Guangzhou Baiyun | Eindhoven | $6.1 – $9.5 |
| Beijing Capital | Eindhoven | $6.5 – $10.5 |
| Shanghai Pudong | Rotterdam The Hague | $6.0 – $9.5 |
| Guangzhou Baiyun | Rotterdam The Hague | $6.0 – $10.8 |
| Beijing Capital | Rotterdam The Hague | $5.8 – $9.7 |
Rail Freight Cost from China to the Netherlands
Railway transportation costs are relatively low, and the transportation time is relatively stable, about 18-22 days. The specific cost is affected by the weight, volume and transportation distance of the goods.
| Departure City(China) | Arrival City(Germany) | Shipping costs |
|---|---|---|
| Zhengzhou | Rotterdam | $1,500 – $2,500 / ton |
| Chongqing | Rotterdam | $1,800 – $2,600 / ton |
| Wuhan | Rotterdam | $1,700 – $2,400 / ton |
| Zhengzhou | Amsterdam | $1,500 – $2,400 / ton |
| Chongqing | Amsterdam | $1,700 – $2,500 / ton |
| Wuhan | Amsterdam | $1,600 – $2,400 / ton |
Learn more in the following articles:
How Much Does it Cost to Ship from China to France?
How Much Does it Cost to Ship from China to Germany?
How Much Does it Cost to Ship from China to the UK?
Factors Affecting Shipping Cost from China to the Netherlands
For businesses looking to optimize their logistics budgets for shipping from China to the Netherlands, it is critical to understand the various factors that affect shipping costs. Key factors include:
- Distance and route: The geographical distance between the port of origin and the port or airport of destination and the selected shipping route have a significant impact on the total cost.
- Shipping Volume and Weight: Both volume and weight play a vital role in determining shipping costs. For sea freight, the cost is usually calculated based on the container size and the weight of the cargo. For air freight, the cost is usually calculated based on the actual weight or volumetric weight (whichever is greater).
- Type of cargo: Special handling requirements for certain types of cargo, such as hazardous materials, perishables, or fragile products, may increase shipping costs due to the need for specialized containers, packaging, and equipment.
- Seasonal variations: Shipping costs fluctuate based on seasonal demand. Peak seasons such as holidays and the Chinese New Year often result in higher freight rates due to increased demand for shipping services.
- Fuel surcharges: Fluctuations in fuel prices directly affect shipping costs. Carriers often charge fuel surcharges to account for changes in fuel costs.
- Port and handling charges: Costs associated with port operations, customs clearance, and cargo handling make up the overall shipping costs. These charges may vary depending on the specific requirements and regulations of the ports of origin and destination.
How to Reduce Shipping Cost from China to the Netherlands
Use the following methods to reduce shipping costs:
Optimize logistics routes
Choose the best shipping routes and transit hubs to reduce shipping mileage and transit time.
Optimize packaging
Reduce the use of packaging materials, reduce packaging weight and volume while ensuring the safety of goods.
Book in advance
Plan and book cargo transportation in advance to avoid price increases caused by surges in demand and get more favorable freight rates.
Negotiate freight rates
Negotiate freight rates with carriers, especially when your shipping volume is stable. Consider signing a long-term contract to get better prices.
Hire a freight forwarder
A reliable freight forwarder can handle paperwork, provide smooth customs clearance services, and provide suggestions for saving shipping costs.
Import Customs Clearance from China to the Netherlands
As a member of the European Union, the Netherlands has a strict import customs clearance process. Importers must comply with EU regulations, provide the required documents, and pay the corresponding taxes and fees, including value-added tax (VAT), tariffs, etc.
VAT and tariffs
The VAT rate in the Netherlands is 21%. Importers must pay VAT based on the value of the goods. The levy of tariffs depends on the category of goods, and the specific tax rate can be found on the official website of the Dutch Customs.
Special requirements
If you import dangerous goods, food or medicines, you must meet specific import requirements and provide relevant supporting documents.
The Dutch customs are strict in checking sea freight, so make sure that the documents provided are accurate. Prepare documents including:
- Commercial invoice: lists the detailed information and value of the goods.
- Packing list: lists the details of the goods in each container.
- Bill of lading: Official certificate of cargo transportation, proving that the goods have been handed over to the carrier.
- Certificate of origin: Proves the place of production of the goods.
- Customs declaration form: List of goods used to declare imports and exports.
Cargo inspection and release
The Dutch customs will conduct random inspections on imported goods. If the inspection is qualified, the goods will be released. If there are problems, they may be detained and fined.
Plan ahead
It is recommended to understand the customs policy of the Netherlands in advance before transportation to avoid delays due to incomplete or incorrect documents.
Freight Forwarder from China to Netherlands
In international trade, a reliable and experienced freight forwarder is essential for the efficient transportation of goods. Ubestshipping excels in providing seamless shipping solutions from China to the Netherlands. Complying with trade regulations and customs procedures to minimize delays and risks. Our services are suitable for a variety of industries, involving electronics, textiles, mechanical equipment, etc.
Advanced tracking and personalized customer service are at the core of our operations. Ubestshipping provides real-time tracking tools to keep you informed of the status of your shipment, allowing you to plan effectively. This commitment to service excellence ensures a smooth and efficient shipping experience.
Cost-effectiveness and reliability define our services. Leveraging strategic partnerships with major carriers, we offer competitive pricing while ensuring your shipment is shipped promptly and safely.