Valuable goods bringing in from China
Skilled transport of Valuable goods from China to the Netherlands. IATA category valuables, flight time approximately 10.5 hours to Schiphol.
Valuable goods
Specifications & requirements
- High value
- Detailed value declaration with serial numbers, AWB with value declaration, proof of insurance
- GIA/IGI certificates for precious stones
- CITES for ivory/coral if applicable
- ATA Carnet for art in case of temporary import
- jewelers and diamond traders
- banks and financial institutions
- art galleries and auction houses
- luxury brands
- collectors
Valuable goods by air freight: security and speed
Gold, diamonds, watches, art, jewelry, banknotes and other valuable goods have two things in common: they are small (light shipments) and the value per kilogram is extremely high. Air freight is not only the fastest for this type of goods — it is also the safest mode of transport.
Sea freight with a container full of valuable goods is a security nightmare: container theft, long dwell times at ports, limited traceability. Air freight via secure cargo terminals with direct handling from aircraft to vault minimizes the risk.
What do we ship as valuable goods?
- Precious metals: gold, silver, platinum (in bars or coins)
- Precious stones: diamonds (certified), rubies, emeralds
- Luxury watches and jewelry (for brands, retailers and private individuals)
- Art and antiques (with ATA Carnet for temporary import)
- Banknotes and securities (on behalf of banks and central banks)
- Smartphones and high-end electronics with high street value
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)
Important notes for valuable goods
Secure handling mandatory
Valuable goods at Schiphol are exclusively processed via secure cargo terminals with access control, CCTV surveillance and armed security if required. Aircargo.nl cooperates with specialized valuables handlers certified for high-value cargo.
Insurance
Standard air freight insurance covers up to 22 SDR per kilogram — usually insufficient for valuable goods. Aircargo.nl always advises additional all-risk transport insurance based on the actual value. We can arrange this insurance upon request.
Documentation
A detailed value declaration with serial numbers, photos and certificates (e.g. GIA certificate for diamonds, authenticity certificates for art) is essential. Upon import into some countries (e.g. India, UAE) high-value shipments are routinely subject to extra checks.
Routing & splitting
For very high values (above €500,000) we advise splitting the shipment over multiple flights to reduce risk. This requires coordination with the recipient and possibly additional security measures at the destination.
Valuable goods bringing in from China?
Request a specific quote for import of Valuable goods from China. We respond on average within 4 hours.
This is how we import Valuable goods from China
Quote & coordination
Pickup & export in China
Arrival Schiphol & clearance
Delivery within the Netherlands
Frequently Asked Questions — Valuable goods from China
What IATA requirements apply for importing Valuable goods?
Our local agent provides export documentation according to IATA category valuables. Upon arrival at Schiphol, our AEO-certified customs department clears the shipment. You will receive copies of all relevant documents.
What does import of Valuable goods from China cost?
The total cost includes air freight rates, handling, clearance, and possible import duties/VAT. For Valuable goods (typically 1–500 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 Valuable goods?
For import, commercial invoice, packing list, and Air Waybill are mandatory. For Valuable goods additional Detailed value declaration with serial numbers, AWB with value declaration, proof of insurance; GIA/IGI certificates for precious stones; CITES for ivory/coral if applicable; ATA Carnet for art in case of temporary import apply. Imports from countries outside the EU incur import duties and VAT — depending on the HS code.
Is Valuable goods 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.
Valuable goods bringing in from China?
Request a specific quote for import of Valuable goods from China. We respond on average within 4 hours.