Importing Auto Parts from Mexico
Expert transport of Auto Parts from Mexico to the Netherlands. IATA category general, flight time approximately 11.5 hours to Schiphol.
Auto Parts
Specifications & requirements
- Commercial invoice, packing list with part numbers and values, AWB
- DGR documentation if applicable
- AOG declaration for urgent shipments
- ATA Carnet for temporary import
- automotive OEMs
- Tier 1/2 suppliers
- dealers and importers
- fleet management companies
- airlines (AOG)
Why Ship Auto Parts by Air Freight?
In the automotive world, downtime is the enemy. An assembly line that stops because a specific part is not delivered on time costs a manufacturer tens of thousands of dollars per hour. Air freight is not a luxury in this case — it’s the only logistics option to minimize downtime.
But even outside of emergencies, air freight is structurally relevant for auto parts. The modern automotive supply chain is global and just-in-time: parts are produced on multiple continents and need to arrive exactly when required on the assembly line. For high-value components such as electronic steering modules, airbag systems, or turbochargers, the value per kilogram is high enough to justify airfreight rates.
When Do Shippers Choose Air Freight?
- AOG — Aircraft on Ground: also in the aviation industry, AOG refers to any situation where a vehicle or aircraft is grounded due to a defective part
- Production bottlenecks: when a supplier is late and the line risks stopping
- Product launches: new models require timely availability of parts at dealerships worldwide
- After-sales & warranty: customers who don't want to wait weeks for a warranty part
Mexico
Mexico · North America
- automotive parts
- machinery
- pharmaceuticals
- technology
- agri-equipment
Importing from Mexico
Imports from Mexico by air primarily include automotive parts, medical equipment, high-end electronics (from nearshoring factories), avocados, berries, and specialty foods such as tequila and chili.
Air freight vs. sea freight
Sea shipments from Veracruz, Manzanillo, or Altamira to Rotterdam take 14–20 days. Air freight via Schiphol is ready for customs clearance within 1–2 business days—essential for fresh products, automotive AOG parts, and samples.
Customs on imports from Mexico
Under the EU-Mexico Global Agreement, many Mexican products benefit from preferential import duties, provided they have a valid certificate of origin or EUR.1. Fresh products undergo EU phytosanitary inspections at Schiphol through the NVWA. Aircargo.nl manages the entire clearance process.
Popular goods from Mexico
- Automotive and aerospace parts (from Bajio and Monterrey)
- Medical equipment and orthopedic products
- Fresh produce (avocado, berries, asparagus)
- Specialty foods (tequila, mezcal, chili, vanilla)
Key Points for Air Freight of Auto Parts
AOG Declaration
In true AOG situations (Aircraft or Automotive on Ground), an AOG declaration can be sent with the shipment to ensure priority handling by the airline and at the destination airport. Aircargo.nl operates a 24/7 accessible AOG desk for such urgent shipments.
Dangerous Goods in Auto Parts
Some auto parts contain dangerous goods requiring DGR classification: airbags (UN0503, explosive), lead-acid batteries (UN2794), lithium-ion batteries for EVs (UN3480/UN3481), and liquids such as brake fluid or coolant. Aircargo.nl screens all shipments for DGR risks as standard.
Value Declaration
Electronic modules, steering boxes, and sensors can have high unit values. Accurate value declaration on the AWB is essential for insurance and customs clearance — especially when importing into countries with high import duties on auto parts (e.g., India, Brazil).
Import {[|]} Auto Parts from Mexico?
Receive a specific quote for importing Auto Parts from Mexico. We reply on average within 4 hours.
The Import Process for Auto Parts from Mexico
Quote & Coordination
Pickup & Export in Mexico
Arrival at Schiphol & Clearance
Delivery in the Netherlands
Frequently Asked Questions — Auto Parts from Mexico
What IATA requirements apply for importing Auto 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 Auto Parts from Mexico?
The total cost includes air freight rates, handling, clearance, and any import duties/VAT. For Auto Parts (typically 10–20000 kg), we quote upfront so there are no surprises. Request a quote.
How long does importing by air freight from Mexico take?
Flight time from Mexico to Schiphol is about 11.5 hours. Including pickup in Mexico, flight, clearance, and delivery, the turnaround time averages 3–5 business days.
What documents are required for importing Auto Parts?
For import, a commercial invoice, packing list, and Air Waybill are mandatory. For Auto Parts, Commercial invoice, packing list with part numbers and values, AWB; DGR documentation if applicable; AOG declaration for urgent shipments; 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 Auto 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 {[|]} Auto Parts from Mexico?
Receive a specific quote for importing Auto Parts from Mexico. We reply on average within 4 hours.