Netherlands Shipping Guide
The Netherlands is home to Europe's largest port — Rotterdam — making it the premier hub for Chinese goods entering Europe. Known as the "Gateway to Europe," over 50% of goods entering Europe transit through the Netherlands. Rotterdam connects to the Rhine inland waterway network, efficiently distributing goods to Germany, Belgium, France, and beyond.
Basic Information
Major Ports & Airports
Europe's largest port and one of the world's top 10, with annual throughput exceeding 15 million TEUs.
Europe's third-largest air cargo hub with advanced handling facilities.
Customs & Clearance
Dutch Customs applies the EU Union Customs Code using the AGS electronic system, offering one of the EU's most efficient clearance processes.
Required Documents
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading/Airway Bill
- EORI Number
- CE Declaration of Conformity
- Certificate of Origin
Restricted Items
- Products must meet EU CE standards
- Food must comply with EU regulations
- Chemicals require REACH compliance
- EU packaging recycling registration required
Customs Tips
The Netherlands is popular for EU EORI and VAT registration. VAT deferment optimizes cash flow.
Logistics Services
- FCL
- LCL
- Air Freight
- China-Europe Railway
- DDP Door-to-Door
- European Warehousing & Distribution
- Inland Barge Transport
Logistics Challenges
Rotterdam operates with exceptional efficiency and congestion is rare. Rhine barges offer low-cost transport to Germany and Switzerland.
Common Trade Goods
Exports from China
Imports from Country
Practical Tips
- 1Rotterdam is the best choice for European market entry
- 2Leverage Dutch VAT deferment to reduce capital costs
- 3Consider a European distribution center in the Netherlands
- 4Use Rhine barges for cost-effective inland transport