When importing goods from China to the Netherlands or elsewhere in Europe, customs formalities and the correct documentation play a crucial role in a smooth international transport process. With the right preparation, you can prevent delays during customs clearance in the Netherlands and ensure that your shipment is not unnecessarily delayed. In this blog post, you will read about which documents are required for importing from China, which mistakes are often made, and how to ensure streamlined logistics.
Required documents for importing from China
When transporting from China to Europe, several documents are always essential. Without these, it is virtually impossible to import your goods smoothly. The most important documents for importing are:
- Bill of Lading (B/L): The most important transport document for sea freight from China, proving ownership and receipt of the shipment.
- Commercial Invoice: Lists all relevant information about the transaction, the goods, prices, and the parties involved. Packing List: Provides an overview of the quantities, weights, and dimensions of the packed goods.
Certificates: Consider a Certificate of Origin, or, depending on the type of goods, an additional certification.
Important to know: an Air Waybill is often used for air freight, and additional documents may be required for rail freight.
How to prevent customs clearance delays
Professional transport from China to the Netherlands prevents time loss at customs. A few practical tips:
- Always check that all information on the invoice and packing list is complete and correct.
- Use the correct HS codes (customs codes) for your products.
- Provide all required information to your customs broker digitally and in a timely manner.
- Arrange permits and certifications in advance for high-risk goods such as electronics, food, or chemicals.
Good cooperation with your supplier in China, combined with an experienced customs broker in the Netherlands, prevents costly delays.
Common mistakes when importing from China
Every day, shipments get stuck in customs warehouses or are delayed due to common mistakes. Common mistakes include:
- Incorrect or incomplete invoices (for example, missing value or importer).
- Incorrect product codes (HS codes), leading to excessively high or low import duties.
- Missing or incorrect Bill of Lading.
- Missing certificates for regulated products.
- Late or missing pre-notification to customs.
You can easily avoid these pitfalls by having your documents checked in advance by an experienced customs broker specializing in imports from China.
Checklist for importing from China
Successful importing from China to the Netherlands or elsewhere in Europe starts with a clear checklist. It’s important to always have the following documents and information in order:
- Incoterm
- Packing list (for import from China)
- Commercial invoice (for import from China)
- HS codes (customs codes for goods)
- Address of the factory/shipper in China
Importance of the correct Incoterm
The correct Incoterm when importing from China makes a big difference. The most commonly used Incoterms are EXW and FOB:
- EXW (Ex Works): You collect the goods yourself from the factory in China and arrange the entire transport process, including customs formalities and customs clearance.
- FOB (Free on Board): The supplier in China loads the goods onto the ship; from there, you handle the transport and customs clearance in the Netherlands or Europe.
Transit times from China
Insight into transit times is crucial for efficient logistics planning when importing. Depending on the chosen transport method, the following average transit times apply:
- Sea freight China – Netherlands: approximately 39 days
- Train transport China – Europe: approximately 24 days
- Air freight China – Netherlands: direct flight approximately 1 day, indirect flight 4–7 days
With this checklist and a clear overview of transit times, you can avoid delays and optimally coordinate your international transport from China.
Avoid delays in transport from China?
Would you also like to experience flawless and fast transport of your imported goods from China? Van Thiel Transport can arrange your import documents, customs formalities, and clearance in the Netherlands or elsewhere in Europe.
Contact us today for advice or request a free quote.