Importing from China to the Netherlands: shipping, costs and customs
The Netherlands is Europe's main gateway: Rotterdam is the largest port in Europe and Schiphol one of its biggest cargo airports. EU customs rules apply.
Shipping options and prices from China to Netherlands
| Method | From | Time |
|---|---|---|
| International express, 10 kgdoor to door · delivered by UPS | ¥666≈ $94 | — |
| Air cargo, 100 kgairport to airport | ¥4,255≈ $599 | — |
| Air line with delivery, 21 kgdoor to door · delivered by UPS | ¥860≈ $121 | 12–18 days |
| Rail line, 50 kgdoor to door · delivered by UPS | ¥972≈ $137 | 32–45 days |
| Truck line, 50 kgdoor to door · delivered by UPS | ¥1,313≈ $185 | 20–30 days |
| Sea line with delivery, 200 kgdoor to door · delivered by UPS | ¥3,150≈ $444 | 45–55 days |
| Sea LCL to portRotterdam | price on request | 30–43 days at sea |
Cheapest line on our rate sheet in October 2026, in Chinese yuan (≈ US dollars at 7.1 yuan per dollar). Not included: duties and taxes in your country, and destination charges for air and sea. Prices change with fuel and season — use the calculator for today's price.
Customs duties and taxes
- Customs duty depends on the product (EU Common Customs Tariff); most consumer goods pay between 0% and 17%.
- Import VAT (BTW) is 21% (9% for some goods such as food and books).
- Since 1 July 2026 the €150 duty exemption for small parcels no longer exists: low-value parcels sent to consumers pay a flat €3 per type of item. VAT has applied to every parcel since 2021.
- Dutch companies can apply for an "Article 23" licence to declare import VAT in their VAT return instead of paying it at the border.
Rules and documents
- Business importers need an EORI number (from Dutch Customs).
- Many products need CE marking and EU-compliant labels (toys, electronics, machinery); cosmetics and food have their own EU rules.
- Goods cleared in the Netherlands can then move freely to other EU countries.
Our tips
Rail and truck lines to Europe deliver to your door with UPS or DPD — between sea and air in price and speed.
By sea, Rotterdam is about 30 to 43 days at sea depending on the line.
Group your orders in our warehouse and ship once.
Customs rules change often. This page was checked in October 2026 and is general information, not legal or tax advice: confirm the duty rate of your product with a customs broker before you import.
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