Shipping to Amsterdam may appear complex, due to the number of regulations and different terms and numbers you have to be aware of. Thus Amsterdam is a hub of Commerce and has always been ideal when considering expansion, and international trade. 

This vibrant European city is not only filled with waterways and modern ports, but the import industry here is also potentially rich in opportunities. In this blog post, we will help you understand how shipping internationally to Amsterdam Netherlands works.

What are the Ways to Ship to Amsterdam?

There are various ways to ship to Amsterdam, Netherlands, and each service poses its unique advantages and considerations. Customers should always explore their options, to know which fits right into the mold of their businesses.

Ocean Freight

Amongst all the shipment modes, Sea or Ocean freight is inevitably the most common for regular services. You should consider this if you’re not constrained by meeting tight delivery deadlines and looking for a fair price. More often, before being distributed to the rest of Europe, containers and cargo were transported to the city’s major sea ports such as the Port of Amsterdam, and Port of Moerdijk.

Air Freight

If your business is looking to ship speedily, then air freight is the most ideal way to send goods quickly to any country. Annually, the Amsterdam Airport Schiphol receives millions of parcels and cargo, and its well-communicated logistics and efficiency have deemed it established in terms of air freight.

Road Freight

While it will take longer, another option to ship to Amsterdam Netherlands is via Road Freight. However, you must also consider that a service like this is limited to its neighboring countries only and may arrive later than expected, due to the number of possible setbacks in the road. One advantage of shipping to Amsterdam is its array of highways making it a cost-effective option and method for the nearby regions.

For neighboring countries, road freight is a viable service option. The Netherlands has an extensive network of highways, making it a central point for goods entering the European market. It’s a cost-effective and efficient method for nearby regions.

What are the Main Ports in Amsterdam?

The heart of Amsterdam’s shipping prowess lies in its ports. These are the gateways that connect the city to the global economy.

Port of Amsterdam

Amongst the various ports in the Netherlands, the Port of Amsterdam is the largest, even in the whole of Europe. It handles different types of parcels, and cargo, which includes dry bulk, liquids, and containers. This is another crucial door in various shipping routes and has modern facilities apt for different cargo and containers.

Port of Moerdijk

This versatile port serves as a logistical and industrial hub for tons of shipment, offering both maritime and inland shipping solutions. It’s well-positioned to connect to Amsterdam’s canals and channels, facilitating easy transportation of goods to the city.

Port Average Annual TEU’s/Tonnage
Port of Amsterdam 425,000 TEUs
Port of Moerdijk 500,000 TEUs
Port of Scheveningen 1,000,000 tonnes
Zeeland Seaports 48,000 TEUs
Port of Harlingen 20,000 TEUs

How much does it cost to ship a container to Amsterdam?

Understanding how much money you spend when shipping to Amsterdam is essential in planning the financial aspect of your international trade operations.

Container Shipping Rates

Rate services can vary significantly depending on the origin, destination, container load, and the volume and type of goods. Below are the average shipping expenses for a 20ft and 40ft container from select countries to Amsterdam.

Country 20ft 40ft
Boston $2900 $4900
Barcelona, Spain €1200 €2550
Belgium €500 €700
Shanghai $1600 $3900
United Kingdom €700 €900

What is the Transit Time when Shipping to Amsterdam?

For businesses, knowing how long it takes for a shipment to reach Amsterdam is vital especially when planning inventory and for meeting customer demands.

Transit Times by Mode

Transit times can vary by shipping method and origin. Shipping by sea will take longer than air service. Below are average transit times to Amsterdam from select countries.

Country Days
China 35 – 40 days
United States 20 – 35 days
Spain 18 – 25 days
United Kingdom 60 days
Canada 80 days

What Paperwork is Needed for International Shipments to Amsterdam?

International shipping involves several documents, especially with customs, to facilitate a seamless flow of goods. Here’s a list of those that you should prepare:

  • Commercial Invoice
  • Certificate of Origin
  • Bill of Lading
  • Packing List

How do I Find a Freight Forwarder in Amsterdam?

If you are looking for a courier to ship your business goods, then you might want to consider finding the right freight forwarder. Hiring the right team is critical for ensuring you meet customs compliance and can manage the various couriers in optimizing your logistics.

Tips for Choosing a Freight Forwarder

When choosing a forwarder, opt for one that has a solid track record and guarantees that they are expert in the business industry. Pangea has providers and partners all over the world, which can help your container and cargoes arrive on time, and provide you with all the convenience you will need. On top of it, if you’re looking for customs services, you can also find a network of freight forwarders offering such services.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Estimated Transit Time for Shipping a Container to Amsterdam?

Transit times largely depend on the shipping method and the origin. Ships can take weeks, and airfreight days, while road freight can be within a day for nearby regions.

How Do You Figure Out the Shipping Cost to Amsterdam?

Costs are influenced by factors such as the mode of shipping, distance, size of goods, and current fuel and carrier fees. It’s recommended to request quotes from multiple carriers and freight forwarders for an accurate estimation.

Conclusion

Shipping to Amsterdam opens the door to the European market and beyond. Learning about the various transport available, shipping costs, and necessary paperwork gives you an advantage and ensures that you understand fully how the system works. Hence, it’s also equally important that you partner with the right provider and find experienced professionals to guide you through the process.