Importing Textiles & Clothing from China
Specialized transport of Textiles & Clothing from China to the Netherlands. IATA category general, flight time approximately 10.5 hours to Schiphol.
Textiles & Clothing
Specifications & requirements
- Stackable
- Commercial invoice, packing list, Certificate of Origin (for tariff preferences), AWB
- textile certificate for specific destinations
- fashion retailers
- fast fashion brands
- luxury fashion importers
- sample couriers for designers
Textiles & Fashion by Air Freight: When and Why
Most textiles and clothing are shipped by sea — ocean freight is cheaper and volumes are large. But there are specific situations where air freight is unavoidable or smart:
- Seasonal pressure — If the new collection arrives late from the manufacturer in Asia and the store launch date is non-negotiable, part of the order ships by air
- Fast fashion restocking — Fashion companies quickly reorder from suppliers in Bangladesh or Vietnam based on sales data
- High-end or luxury fashion — Where the value per kilogram justifies air freight rates
- Sample shipments — Prototypes and samples for showrooms or photography — speed is essential
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 Points for Textiles & Clothing
Origin Documentation
Textiles have strict origin rules for tariff preferences. The 'double transformation rule' states textiles acquire EU origin only if both weaving and garment manufacturing occurred in the EU. Incorrect origin declarations can lead to back payments. Aircargo.nl verifies origin on all textile shipments.
Seasonality
Fashion cargo is highly seasonal. Q4 (October–December) and Q1 (January–March) are peak periods. Plan air freight well in advance — capacity on Asia routes is scarce and expensive during peak seasons.
Import {[|]} Textiles & Clothing from China?
Receive a specific quote for importing Textiles & Clothing from China. We reply on average within 4 hours.
The Import Process for Textiles & Clothing from China
Quote & Coordination
Pickup & Export in China
Arrival at Schiphol & Clearance
Delivery in the Netherlands
Frequently Asked Questions — Textiles & Clothing from China
What IATA requirements apply for importing Textiles & Clothing?
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 Textiles & Clothing from China?
The total cost includes air freight rates, handling, clearance, and any import duties/VAT. For Textiles & Clothing (typically 50–5000 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 Textiles & Clothing?
For import, a commercial invoice, packing list, and Air Waybill are mandatory. For Textiles & Clothing, Commercial invoice, packing list, Certificate of Origin (for tariff preferences), AWB; textile certificate for specific destinations are also required. Imports from outside the EU are subject to import duties and VAT, depending on the HS code.
Is Textiles & Clothing 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 {[|]} Textiles & Clothing from China?
Receive a specific quote for importing Textiles & Clothing from China. We reply on average within 4 hours.