Shipping goods from China to an Amazon warehouse in the Netherlands gives sellers a strong advantage in reaching European customers quickly. Whether you’re shipping consumer goods, electronics, or e-commerce stock, choosing the right shipping method and handling customs correctly can make the difference between smooth delivery and costly delays.
This guide will walk you through the shipping methods, cost breakdown, customs documentation, and FBA delivery requirements for Amazon Netherlands.
What Is Involved in Shipping to Amazon Warehouse in the Netherlands?
When shipping to Amazon FBA centers in the Netherlands, the logistics chain usually includes:
- Pickup at your supplier in China
- Export declaration and origin clearance
- Main transportation (air, sea, rail, or courier)
- Import clearance in the Netherlands
- Final delivery to Amazon warehouse
Every step must be aligned with Amazon FBA requirements to avoid delivery refusals or extra charges.
What Are the Main Shipping Methods?
| Shipping Method | Transit Time | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air Freight | 5–9 days | Urgent, light | Fast, reliable | Costly |
| Sea Freight (FCL/LCL) | 30–40 days | Bulk | Cost-effective | Slow |
| Rail Freight | 20–25 days | Balanced | Faster than sea | Limited schedule |
| Express Courier | 5–7 days | Small parcels | Door-to-door | Expensive |
Estimated Shipping Costs from China to the Netherlands
| Mode | Cost (Est.) | Ideal Weight | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Freight | $5–$9 / kg | Up to 500 kg | Fast, ideal for high-value goods |
| Sea Freight (LCL) | $120–$180 / CBM | Bulk shipments | Cost-efficient |
| Rail Freight | $150–$200 / CBM | Medium volume | Balanced cost & time |
| Express Courier | $7–$15 / kg | Light parcels | Best for urgent orders |
Main Amazon Warehouses in the Netherlands
| Warehouse Code | Location | Goods Type | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| WRO1 | Tilburg | General inventory | Large processing capacity |
| WRO5 | Venlo | Fast-moving goods | Quick turnaround |
| WRO7 | Ridderkerk | Cross-border shipments | Strong EU network |
Required Customs Documentation
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | Declares shipment value |
| Packing List | Lists product details and quantities |
| Bill of Lading / AWB | Proof of transport |
| EORI Number | Required for EU import clearance |
| HS Codes | Determines duty rates and VAT |
Why Rail Freight Is a Smart Choice
Many Amazon sellers use rail freight as a middle-ground between cost and delivery time:
- 🚆 More affordable than air, faster than sea
- 🌍 Consistent schedules from major Chinese cities
- 📦 Stable transit for medium to large shipments
- 🌱 Environmentally friendly and reliable
For products with moderate urgency, rail often offers the best balance.
How to Avoid Customs Delays
- Ensure HS codes are correct and match product descriptions
- Prepare your EORI number before shipment arrives
- Submit accurate commercial invoices and packing lists
- Work with experienced customs clearance partners
Small errors in paperwork can lead to major delivery delays — and extra charges.
Conclusion
Shipping from China to an Amazon warehouse in the Netherlands can be straightforward when planned carefully. By understanding the differences between air, sea, rail, and express freight, sellers can choose the best solution for their delivery needs.
Accurate documentation, proper customs handling, and choosing the right warehouse can reduce risk and speed up delivery.
Strategic planning at this stage doesn’t just save time — it also protects your profit margin and ensures a smooth selling experience in the European market.
Request a Quote
Shipping to an Amazon warehouse in the Netherlands doesn’t need to be complicated. With a clear understanding of freight options, transit times, and customs requirements, sellers can keep costs predictable and deliveries reliable.
Q1: How long does it take to ship from China to the Netherlands?
Depending on the mode: air freight takes 5–9 days, rail 20–25 days, and sea 30–40 days.
Q2: Which shipping method is best for Amazon FBA?
Air for urgent restocks, sea for cost efficiency, and rail for balanced shipments.
Q3: What customs documents are needed?
Invoice, packing list, Bill of Lading, HS code, and EORI number.
Q4: Can I ship directly to Amazon Netherlands warehouses?
Yes, if packaging, labeling, and booking follow Amazon’s FBA guidelines.
Q5: How to avoid customs delays?
Prepare correct HS codes and EORI, and work with experienced clearance agents.