Importing Valuable Goods from China
Specialized 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 gemstones
- CITES for ivory/coral if applicable
- ATA Carnet for art on temporary import
- jewelers and diamond dealers
- 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 share two things in common: they are small (light shipments) and have an extremely high value per kilogram. Air freight is not only the fastest transport mode for these types of goods — it is also the safest.
Sea freight with a container full of valuables is a security nightmare: container theft, lengthy stays in ports, limited traceability. Air freight through secured cargo terminals with direct handling from plane to vault minimizes risk.
What Do We Ship as Valuable Goods?
- Precious metals: gold, silver, platinum (in bars or coins)
- Gemstones: certified diamonds, 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 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 Notes on Valuable Goods
Secure Handling Mandatory
Valuable goods at Schiphol are processed exclusively through secure cargo terminals with access control, CCTV, and armed security when required. Aircargo.nl partners with specialized valuables handlers certified for high-value cargo.
Insurance
Standard air freight insurance covers a maximum of 22 SDR per kilogram — almost always insufficient for valuable goods. Aircargo.nl always recommends additional all-risk transport insurance based on actual value. We can arrange this insurance upon request.
Documentation
A detailed value declaration including serial numbers, photos, and certificates (e.g., GIA certificate for diamonds, authenticity certificates for art) is essential. High-value shipments are routinely subjected to extra inspections in some countries (e.g., India, UAE).
Routing & Splitting
For very high values (over €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.
Import {[|]} Valuable Goods from China?
Request a customized quote for importing Valuable Goods from China. We respond on average within 4 hours.
How We Import Valuable Goods from China
Quote & Coordination
Pickup & Export in China
Arrival at Schiphol & Clearance
Delivery in the Netherlands
Frequently Asked Questions — Valuable Goods from China
What IATA requirements apply for importing Valuable Goods?
Our local agent handles 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 it cost to import Valuable Goods from China?
The total cost includes air freight rates, handling, clearance, and any import duties/VAT. For Valuable Goods (typically 1–500 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 Valuable Goods?
For import, a commercial invoice, packing list, and Air Waybill are mandatory. For Valuable Goods, Detailed value declaration with serial numbers, AWB with value declaration, proof of insurance; GIA/IGI certificates for gemstones; CITES for ivory/coral if applicable; ATA Carnet for art on temporary import are also required. Imports from outside the EU are subject to import duties and VAT, depending on the HS code.
Is Valuable 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 {[|]} Valuable Goods from China?
Request a customized quote for importing Valuable Goods from China. We respond on average within 4 hours.