Auto Parts bringing in from China
Professional transport of Auto Parts from China to the Netherlands. IATA category general, flight time approximately 10.5 hours to Schiphol.
Auto Parts
Specifications & requirements
- Commercial invoice, packing list with part numbers and values, AWB
- DGR documentation if applicable
- AOG declaration for urgent shipments
- ATA Carnet for temporary import
- automotive OEMs
- Tier 1/2 suppliers
- dealers and importers
- fleet management companies
- airlines (AOG)
Why airfreight for auto parts?
In the automotive world, downtime is the enemy. An assembly line that stops because a specific part is not on time costs a manufacturer tens of thousands of euros per hour. Airfreight is then not a luxury — it is the only logistics option that limits downtime.
But even outside of emergencies, airfreight for auto parts is structurally relevant. The modern automotive supply chain is global and just-in-time: parts are produced across multiple continents and must appear at the assembly line at exactly the right moment. For high-value components like electronic steering modules, airbag systems, or turbochargers, the value per kg is high enough to justify airfreight rates.
When do shippers choose airfreight?
- AOG — Aircraft on Ground: in the aviation world AOG also refers to any situation where a vehicle or aircraft is grounded due to a defective part
- Production stoppages: if a supplier is late and the line risks halting
- Product launches: new models require timely availability of parts at dealers worldwide
- After-sales & warranty: customers who do not want to wait weeks for a warranty part
China
China · Asia
- electronics
- machines
- textiles
- toys
- pharmaceuticals
Importing from China
China is by far the largest exporter to Europe. Most Dutch importers receive shipments from China weekly or even daily — ranging from consumer electronics and machine parts to clothing, toys, and semi-finished products.
Air Freight vs. Sea Freight
Sea freight from China takes 25–35 days. Air freight via Schiphol takes 2–4 working days — including pickup, customs clearance, and delivery in the Netherlands. This makes air freight ideal for urgent replenishment, high-value products, or goods with limited shelf life.
Customs for Imports from China
When importing from China, EU import duties apply (depending on the product type, usually 3.5–12%). For certain product categories — including solar panels, steel, and e-bikes — anti-dumping duties are in effect. Aircargo.nl handles the full customs clearance and calculates expected import costs in advance so you avoid surprises.
Most Requested Goods from China
- Electronics and components (PCBs, displays, batteries)
- Machines and precision parts
- Textiles and fashion (with seasonal peaks)
- Pharmaceutical raw materials (APIs)
Focus points for auto parts airfreight
AOG declaration
In true AOG situations (Aircraft or Automotive on Ground), an AOG declaration can be included which grants priority handling by the airline and at the destination airport station. Aircargo.nl has a 24/7 reachable AOG desk for these urgent shipments.
Dangerous goods in auto parts
Some auto parts contain hazardous materials that require DGR classification: airbags (UN0503, explosive), lead-acid batteries (UN2794), lithium-ion batteries for EVs (UN3480/UN3481), and liquids like brake fluid or coolant. Aircargo.nl routinely screens for DGR risks.
Value declaration
Electronic modules, steering boxes and sensors can have high values per piece. Correct value declaration on the AWB is essential for insurance and customs clearance — especially when importing into countries with high import duties on auto parts (e.g. India, Brazil).
Auto Parts bringing in from China?
Request a specific quote for import of Auto Parts from China. We respond on average within 4 hours.
This is how we import Auto Parts from China
Quote & coordination
Pickup & export in China
Arrival Schiphol & clearance
Delivery within the Netherlands
Frequently Asked Questions — Auto Parts from China
What IATA requirements apply for importing Auto Parts?
Our local agent provides export documentation according to IATA category general. Upon arrival at Schiphol, our AEO-certified customs department clears the shipment. You will receive copies of all relevant documents.
What does import of Auto Parts from China cost?
The total cost includes air freight rates, handling, clearance, and possible import duties/VAT. For Auto Parts (typically 10–20000 kg) we calculate this upfront so you face no surprises. Request a quote.
How long does import by air freight from China take?
Flight time China → Schiphol is approximately 10.5 hours. Including pickup in China, flight, clearance, and delivery, the turnaround time averages 3–5 working days.
What documents are needed for importing Auto Parts?
For import, commercial invoice, packing list, and Air Waybill are mandatory. For Auto Parts additional Commercial invoice, packing list with part numbers and values, AWB; DGR documentation if applicable; AOG declaration for urgent shipments; ATA Carnet for temporary import apply. Imports from countries outside the EU incur import duties and VAT — depending on the HS code.
Is Auto Parts delivered to your home after clearance?
Yes. After clearance at Schiphol, we deliver throughout the Netherlands and the Benelux. You can also pick up at our warehouse in Aalsmeer.
Auto Parts bringing in from China?
Request a specific quote for import of Auto Parts from China. We respond on average within 4 hours.