Importing Dangerous Goods from China
Professional transport of Dangerous Goods from China to the Netherlands. IATA category dangerous, flight time approximately 10.5 hours to Schiphol.
Dangerous Goods
Specifications & requirements
- DGR — hazardous
- Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods, MSDS/SDS, UN packaging certificate, commercial invoice, packing list, any REACH documentation
- chemical industry
- laboratory suppliers
- industrial tool manufacturers
- battery makers
Dangerous goods by air freight: how it works
Dangerous goods — from chemicals and acids to lithium batteries, gas cylinders, and pyrotechnics — are indeed allowed to be shipped by air freight, provided they are properly classified, packed, and documented according to IATA DGR regulations.
Not every company has a DGR-certified employee on staff. Aircargo.nl handles everything for you: we classify your goods, prepare the Shipper's Declaration, select the right airline (not every airline accepts all DGR classes), and ensure your shipment is compliant before it takes to the air.
Common DGR categories we ship
- Lithium batteries (UN3480, UN3481) — the most common DGR in air freight
- Liquids and chemicals (class 3, 6, 8)
- Aerosol cans and gases (class 2)
- Corrosive substances and acids (class 8)
- Magnetic materials (relevant for air navigation)
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 business days — including collection, customs clearance, and delivery within the Netherlands. This makes air freight ideal for urgent replenishment, high-value products, or goods with limited shelf life.
Customs on Imports from China
EU import duties apply to goods from China (depending on product type, usually 3.5–12%). Certain product categories — including solar panels, steel, and e-bikes — are subject to anti-dumping duties. Aircargo.nl takes care of full customs clearance and provides an upfront estimate of expected import costs so you won’t face surprises.
Popular Goods from China
- Electronics and components (PCBs, displays, batteries)
- Machines and precision parts
- Textiles and fashion (with seasonal peaks)
- Pharmaceutical raw materials (APIs)
Important points for DGR shipments
IATA DGR classification required
Dangerous goods must be classified according to the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR). The classification determines the UN class, packing group, allowed quantity per package, and mode of transport (passenger aircraft or cargo aircraft only).
Documentation
Every DGR shipment requires a fully completed Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods, signed by a trained DGR specialist. Aircargo.nl employs certified DGR experts who prepare and verify all documentation.
Packing
DGR goods must be packed in UN-certified packaging appropriate to their UN class and packing group. Incorrect packaging is the most common reason airlines refuse shipments.
Airline approval
Not all airlines accept all types of DGR. Aircargo.nl always selects the right carrier based on your shipment’s DGR profile.
Import {[|]} Dangerous Goods from China?
Request a customized quote for importing Dangerous Goods from China. We respond on average within 4 hours.
How We Import Dangerous Goods from China
Quote & Coordination
Pickup & Export in China
Arrival at Schiphol & Clearance
Delivery in the Netherlands
Frequently Asked Questions — Dangerous Goods from China
What IATA requirements apply for importing Dangerous Goods?
Our local agent handles export documentation according to IATA category dangerous. Upon arrival at Schiphol, our AEO-certified customs department clears the shipment. You will receive copies of all relevant documents.
What does it cost to import Dangerous Goods from China?
The total cost includes air freight rates, handling, clearance, and any import duties/VAT. For Dangerous Goods (typically 10–10000 kg), we quote upfront so there are no surprises. Request a quote.
How long does importing by air freight from China take?
Flight time from China to Schiphol is about 10.5 hours. Including pickup in China, flight, clearance, and delivery, the turnaround time averages 3–5 business days.
What documents are required for importing Dangerous Goods?
For import, a commercial invoice, packing list, and Air Waybill are mandatory. For Dangerous Goods, Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods, MSDS/SDS, UN packaging certificate, commercial invoice, packing list, any REACH documentation are also required. Imports from outside the EU are subject to import duties and VAT, depending on the HS code.
Is Dangerous Goods delivered to your home after clearance?
Yes. After clearance at Schiphol, we handle delivery throughout the Netherlands and the Benelux. You can also pick up yourself at our warehouse in Aalsmeer.
Import {[|]} Dangerous Goods from China?
Request a customized quote for importing Dangerous Goods from China. We respond on average within 4 hours.