Sea Freight from China: Safely and Reliably Import Containers to Europe
FCL & LCL Container Transport from China, Customized
Do you want to import goods from China safely and cost-efficiently? Sea freight has been the most reliable and cost-effective choice for international transport of large volumes for many years.
Van Thiel Transport guides you through the entire FCL or LCL sea freight process from China: from collection from the supplier to customs clearance in the Netherlands. With our experience, established partners, and transparent communication, you are assured of a worry-free transport process.
What is FCL and LCL sea freight from China?
When importing goods from China, you can choose between FCL (Full Container Load) and LCL (Less than Container Load). The right choice depends on your volume, delivery frequency, and cost considerations.
FCL (Full Container Load)
- Suitable for larger volumes or shipments that cannot be combined
- One container reserved entirely for your goods.
- Shorter turnaround time and minimal risk of damage.
LCL (Less than Container Load)
- Ideal for smaller shipments or new importers
- Your goods are combined with other loads
- Flexible and cost-effective for limited volumes
- Full customs clearance by Van Thiel Transport.
When do you choose FCL or LCL?
- Choose FCL if you want to fully utilize the container and gain control over planning and loading.
- Choose LCL if you want flexible shipping at lower costs, without filling an entire container.
Van Thiel Transport is happy to advise you on the best option for your shipment and budget.
Transit times and costs of sea freight from China
The average transit time for sea freight from China to the Netherlands is between 4 and 6 weeks, depending on the port of departure (e.g., Shanghai, Ningbo, or Shenzhen) and the final destination in the Netherlands or Europe.
Factors that influence the cost:
- Container type (FCL or LCL)
- Volume and weight of the cargo
- Incoterms (such as FOB, CIF, or EXW)
- Port of departure and arrival
Van Thiel Transport works with a dedicated network of shipping companies and local forwarders in China, ensuring you benefit from competitive rates and reliable delivery times.
Customs, documentation, and clearance for sea freight from China
Sea freight involves a lot of paperwork. Van Thiel Transport handles everything for you, so you don’t waste time on it. We provide:
- Preparation and verification of all shipping documents (B/L, packing list, invoice, certificates)
- Customs clearance and import clearance in the Netherlands
- Advice on import duties, VAT, and HS codes
- Coordination with your supplier in China
- Proactive and transparent communication throughout the entire process
This ensures that your sea freight shipment from China is shipped quickly, error-free, and without delay.
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Frequently asked questions about sea freight from China
Do you have questions about sea freight from China? We’ve answered many frequently asked questions below. Is your question not listed? Please contact us; our staff will be happy to provide you with further information.
The average transit time is 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the port of departure, route, and weather conditions. Van Thiel Transport actively monitors every shipment and keeps you informed of its progress.
The cost depends on the volume, the container type (FCL or LCL), the Incoterm, and current freight rates. For an accurate price quote, you can receive a free, no-obligation quote within one hour.
You usually need a Bill of Lading, commercial invoice, packing list, and possibly certificates of origin or conformity. Van Thiel Transport can help you prepare and check all documents.
For sea freight, the actual weight of the goods is usually used. For very light, large products, the volumetric weight can also be decisive. This is calculated based on the number of cubic meters of the shipment and by applying a standard conversion factor. We are happy to calculate this accurately for your shipment.
- FCL (Full Container Load): The entire container is filled with your goods. This is faster, safer, and often more economical for larger volumes.
- LCL (Less than Container Load): You share a container with other importers and only pay for the space you use. This is ideal for smaller shipments.
Would you like advice? Our staff is happy to help you choose the most efficient solution for your container transport from China to Europe.
Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) are the international trade terms. They determine the responsibilities of the buyer and seller regarding transport, costs, and risks. Commonly used Incoterms for sea freight are:
- FOB (Free On Board): the seller delivers to the ship
- EXW (Ex-Works): factory, warehouse: the buyer arranges everything from the seller’s warehouse
- CIF (Cost, Insurance & Freight): the seller arranges transport and insurance to the port of arrival
The choice depends on your agreements with the seller: what is the desired division of responsibilities and costs between you and the seller? We are happy to provide you with tailored advice.
We work only with reliable shipping companies, monitor every shipment, and proactively communicate any delays. This allows us to intervene quickly when necessary, and you always stay informed about your shipment.
Yes, we offer multimodal solutions that combine sea freight with air or rail transport for faster or more sustainable delivery.
Complete the online form and you will receive a response within one hour on average
Is your question not answered?
Our employees will be happy to help you, so please feel free to contact us.