Importing Machines & Parts from China
Professional transport of Machines & Parts from China to the Netherlands. IATA category general, flight time approximately 10.5 hours to Schiphol.
Machines & Parts
Specifications & requirements
- Detailed packing list with part numbers and values, commercial invoice, AWB
- CE documentation
- ATA carnet for temporary import
- manufacturing industry
- automotive OEMs and suppliers
- installation services
- project logistics
Why ship machines & parts by air freight?
Machines and industrial parts are heavy and large — not usually the first thing that comes to mind for air freight. Still, air freight is often the best option for these goods for three reasons:
1. Downtime costs more than shipping — A production line that is down due to a failed part often costs €5,000–50,000 per day in lost revenue. The extra cost of air freight versus sea freight is negligible in comparison.
2. Value versus weight — Precision parts (CNC tools, hydraulic pumps, servo motors) carry a high value per kilogram. Air freight rates are reasonable relative to their value.
3. Time-critical projects — For installations, commissioning, or repairs when technicians are on standby, delays are unacceptable. Air freight guarantees arrival time certainty.
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)
Key considerations for machines & parts
Weight and dimensions
Machines and heavy parts often exceed standard air freight size or weight limits. Shipments over 500 kg per piece or with oversized dimensions require special freighter flights or dedicated space on cargo aircraft. Aircargo.nl has access to freighters from KLM Cargo, Lufthansa Cargo, and other carriers for oversized cargo.
Detailed packing list
Machines typically have complex assemblies: multiple parts, materials, and values. A detailed and accurate packing list is essential for customs clearance, especially for destinations with high import duties on capital goods (India, Brazil).
AOG situations
When a machine production process stops due to a broken part, every minute counts. Aircargo.nl operates a 24/7 AOG desk for time-critical machine parts — from booking to delivery on the production floor.
Import {[|]} Machines & Parts from China?
Request a customized quote for importing Machines & Parts from China. We respond on average within 4 hours.
How We Import Machines & Parts from China
Quote & Coordination
Pickup & Export in China
Arrival at Schiphol & Clearance
Delivery in the Netherlands
Frequently Asked Questions — Machines & Parts from China
What IATA requirements apply for importing Machines & Parts?
Our local agent handles 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 it cost to import Machines & Parts from China?
The total cost includes air freight rates, handling, clearance, and any import duties/VAT. For Machines & Parts (typically 200–50000 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 Machines & Parts?
For import, a commercial invoice, packing list, and Air Waybill are mandatory. For Machines & Parts, Detailed packing list with part numbers and values, commercial invoice, AWB; CE documentation; ATA carnet for temporary import are also required. Imports from outside the EU are subject to import duties and VAT, depending on the HS code.
Is Machines & Parts 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 {[|]} Machines & Parts from China?
Request a customized quote for importing Machines & Parts from China. We respond on average within 4 hours.