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In today’s competitive e-commerce landscape, Amazon logistics China to Europe has become a powerful channel for global sellers. By shipping products directly from China to Amazon fulfillment centers in Europe, businesses can lower costs, speed up delivery, and simplify inventory management.
However, to fully benefit from this strategy, sellers need to understand shipping methods, cost structures, customs procedures, and FBA requirements. This guide covers everything you need to ship to Amazon Europe efficiently and profitably.
Why Ship from China to Amazon Europe?
Amazon’s European network serves millions of customers daily. Shipping directly from your Chinese supplier to Amazon FBA warehouses across Europe offers:
- ✅ Lower total logistics costs
- ✅ Faster inventory restocking
- ✅ Reduced risk of stockouts
- ✅ Simplified fulfillment operations
- ✅ Seamless integration with Amazon Seller Central
In addition, Amazon’s robust logistics infrastructure makes it possible to reach key European markets — such as Germany, France, the UK, Italy, and Spain — in just days or weeks.
How Amazon Logistics to Europe Works
When using Amazon FBA, your products are stored in Amazon’s fulfillment centers and shipped directly to customers after purchase. If your supplier is in China, the shipping process generally looks like this:
- Supplier prepares goods in China.
- Freight forwarder books shipping (air, sea, express, or rail).
- Shipment clears Chinese customs and departs.
- Arrival at European port or airport.
- Import clearance at destination.
- Delivery to the designated Amazon fulfillment center.
A reliable freight partner can coordinate every step, reducing the risk of delays or compliance issues.
Major Amazon FBA Warehouses in Europe
| Country | Popular Fulfillment Centers | Main Airport / Port | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | Dortmund, Leipzig, Graben | Frankfurt, Hamburg | Central EU hub, fast distribution |
| France | Montélimar, Senlis | Paris CDG, Le Havre | Efficient air & sea connections |
| Spain | Barcelona, Madrid | Valencia, Madrid Barajas | Ideal for Mediterranean routes |
| Italy | Torrazza Piemonte | Genoa, Milan MXP | Great for southern Europe |
| Netherlands | Tilburg | Rotterdam, Schiphol | Tax advantages for imports |
Shipping Methods from China to Amazon Europe
Different shipping methods offer different balances between speed and cost. Choosing the right one depends on your shipment size, product value, and delivery timeline.
| Method | Transit Time | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Freight | 5–12 days | $$ | Small & urgent shipments |
| Sea Freight (FCL/LCL) | 25–40 days | $ | Large volume cargo |
| Rail Freight | 15–25 days | $$ | Mid-volume, time-sensitive cargo |
| Express Courier | 3–7 days | $$$ | Samples, small parcels, urgent delivery |
Pro tip: A hybrid shipping strategy (e.g., splitting inventory between air and sea) can help sellers optimize cost and speed simultaneously.
Air Freight: Fast Delivery to Amazon Europe
For high-demand SKUs or product launches, air freight is often the best choice. Major Chinese airports like Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport have daily flights to key European hubs such as Frankfurt Airport and Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport.
Advantages:
- Fast delivery (5–12 days)
- Reliable schedules
- Ideal for time-sensitive inventory
Considerations:
- Higher cost per kg
- Weight and dimension limits
Sea Freight: The Most Economical Option
| Route | Transit Time | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai – Rotterdam | 30–35 days | High frequency, stable route |
| Shenzhen – Hamburg | 32–37 days | Ideal for general goods |
| Ningbo – Le Havre | 33–38 days | Popular for French FBA shipments |
| Qingdao – Genoa | 35–40 days | Suitable for Southern Europe |
Rail Freight: A Cost–Time Balance
Rail freight along the China–Europe Railway Express has become increasingly popular. This option offers:
- 🚆 15–25 days transit time
- 💰 More affordable than air freight
- 📦 Suitable for mid-size inventory
- 🌱 Environmentally friendly option
Popular destinations include Germany, Poland, and the Netherlands, which can then distribute products across Europe.
Customs Clearance for Amazon FBA Europe
Efficient customs clearance is critical when shipping to Amazon warehouses in Europe. In most cases, shipments are cleared through a central EU entry point (like the Netherlands or Germany) and then distributed.
Required Documents:
- Commercial invoice & packing list
- Bill of lading or air waybill
- Import declaration
- EORI number (for EU importers)
- VAT registration documents
- Amazon shipment ID & labeling
Tip: Working with an experienced freight forwarder ensures compliance with EU import regulations, avoiding costly delays.
Typical Shipping Cost Factors
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Shipping method | Air is fastest but most expensive; sea is cheapest |
| Weight & volume | Larger shipments benefit from lower unit costs |
| Destination country | Germany & Netherlands often have lower import costs |
| Customs duties & VAT | Vary by product category and country |
| Peak season | Q4 may increase freight rates |
Labeling & Delivery to Amazon FBA Warehouses
Amazon has strict FBA requirements, so your cargo must be properly labeled and scheduled for delivery.
Steps for compliance:
- Generate FBA shipment plan in Seller Central.
- Print and apply carton and pallet labels.
- Book delivery appointments with the warehouse.
- Arrange unloading in line with Amazon’s inbound policy.
Failing to follow these requirements can result in shipment rejection or additional fees.
Why Work with Top China Forwarder
At Top China Forwarder, we specialize in Amazon logistics from China to Europe, offering a full-service solution:
- ✅ Competitive air, sea, rail & express freight rates
- ✅ Expertise in EU customs clearance and VAT handling
- ✅ Amazon FBA labeling and appointment booking
- ✅ Consolidation services from multiple suppliers
- ✅ Real-time tracking and professional support
Our team ensures your goods arrive quickly, safely, and in full compliance with Amazon’s requirements.
Conclusion
Amazon logistics China to Europe is a strategic opportunity for e-commerce sellers to grow in the European market. With the right shipping method, cost strategy, and logistics partner, you can deliver faster, reduce expenses, and scale your business confidently.
Top China Forwarder offers tailored solutions — from consolidation to customs clearance and final FBA delivery.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How can I track my Amazon FBA shipment to Europe?
You can use your forwarder’s tracking platform or carrier tracking number to monitor the shipment’s real-time status and delivery schedule.
Is VAT registration required to ship to Amazon EU warehouses?
Yes, an EORI number and VAT registration are typically required for importing goods into the EU.
Can I combine products from multiple suppliers into one shipment?
Yes, consolidation is common and helps reduce shipping costs. Your freight forwarder can handle supplier coordination and labeling.
What’s the best shipping method for small, fast-moving products?
Air freight or express courier is ideal for urgent restocks or lightweight items.
How can I lower my shipping costs?
Booking off-peak, consolidating shipments, and using sea or rail freight can significantly reduce costs.