Shipping from China to Belgium
International freight shipping from China to Belgium
Belgium is Europe’s top multimodal logistics hub. It uses Antwerp Port, which is the EU’s #3 container port, handling over 155 million TEUs. Liege Airport serves as a key air cargo gateway for e-commerce and pharmaceuticals. Plus, Belgium has dense rail and road networks that connect with EU corridors. We improve cash flow by easing VAT deferment. Our customs expertise helps avoid delays. We optimize China-Belgium shipments through air (3 days), rail (15 days), or affordable sea FCL/LCL. This ensures speed, compliance, and clear visibility.
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With over 15 years of experience and a team of 500+, VIPU offers complete supply chain services. We focus on speed, compliance, and cost efficiency for air, sea, rail, and road transport.
Shipping from China to Belgium
Belgium’s Multimodal Freight Transport System
Belgium’s prime spot in Northwestern Europe and strong infrastructure make it a key logistics hub. It connects well to EU transport routes. Here’s a breakdown of sea, air, rail, and road freight. It also covers customs clearance steps needed for smooth cross-border trade.
1. Maritime Transport
Key Ports & Operations
Antwerp Port:
Вместимость: Europe’s 3rd largest port, handling 155M TEUs annually (ranked 14th globally for containers).
Инфраструктура: 1,380 ha terminal area, max draft of 14.95m; tidal access allows 100k-ton vessels .
Маршруты: Connects to 800+ global ports; 90 km inland from the North Sea via the Scheldt River.
Zeebrugge Port:
Specializes in RoRo, forest/paper products; direct rail links to European hinterlands .
Экономическая эффективность:
Lowest among transport modes; ideal for bulk/non-urgent cargo.
Example: Shipping from China’s Dachan Bay to Antwerp costs 700–700–1,300/TEU (25–35 days transit) .
Преимущества:
High-volume handling, eco-friendly for bulk commodities.
Direct access to EU markets via inland waterways (e.g., Albert Canal) .
2. Air Freight
Major Hubs & Services
Liège Airport (LGG):
#1 Belgian cargo hub: Focuses on pharma, e-commerce, perishables.
New Routes: Direct flights from Hefei (China) to Liège (e.g., 150 tons/week of auto parts, electronics).
Brussels Airport (BRU): Supports passenger flights with dedicated cargo capacity.
Cost & Transit Time:
Скорость: 1–3 days from China to Belgium .
Стоимость: $3–6/kg; higher than sea/rail but optimal for urgent, high-value goods .
Strengths:
24/7 operations; 1-day truck access to 75% of European GDP centers .
3. Rail Transport
Network & Efficiency
EU Rail Corridors: Integrated into North Sea-Baltic и Rhine-Alpine corridors .
Ключевые маршруты:
China-Europe rail links via Poland/Czech Republic; transit time 10–15 days .
Upgraded Brussels-Rotterdam line (2 trains/hour) .
Cost Advantage:
Lower than air but higher than sea; approx. 20–30% cheaper than air freight .
Eco-friendly; reduces carbon footprint vs. road transport.
Ограничения: Primarily for non-time-sensitive bulk goods (e.g., machinery, industrial materials).
4. Road Transport
Dominance in Last-Mile Logistics
Network: 300+ highway routes; connects Antwerp/Rotterdam to Germany, France, Netherlands.
Гибкость: Best for short distances and “door-to-door” delivery.
Стоимость: Higher than rail/sea for long distances but unbeatable for urgent shipments .
Leading Companies:
Rhenus Logistics: Manages customs, warehousing across 660+ EU sites.
Broekman Logistics: Offers integrated solutions via Antwerp hub .
Customs Clearance Requirements
Belgium’s customs procedures are critical for avoiding delays. Key regulations include:
1. VAT Deferment (Postponed Accounting)
Process:
Import VAT payment deferred; requires valid EORI number and EU VAT registration.
Submit declaration via agent; avoid mixing packing lists/invoices.
Benefit: Improves cash flow for SMEs.
2. Key Regulations (Updated 2025)
Value Declaration:
Must exceed 1/3 of sales price (e.g., €100 product ≥ €33.33); low declarations risk penalties.
Prohibited Goods:
Seeds, alcohol, cigarettes, single-use plastics, and infringing products.
Документация:
Коммерческий счет-фактура: Detailed HS codes, weights, values, origin.
Origin Proof: REX-registered declarations for preferential tariffs .
ENS/EXS Declarations: Mandatory security pre-notifications .
3. Customs Inspections
Focus: Textiles, undervalued goods; strict checks at Antwerp/Liège.
Соответствие требованиям: Provide product certificates (e.g., CE marks), test reports for EU standards .
Optimizing Belgium-Bound Shipments
Multimodal Synergy:
Combine sea/rail for cost-speed balance (e.g., China→Antwerp→German hubs) .
Tech Integration:
Use real-time tracking (e.g., FreightAmigo’s digital platforms) for visibility .
Customs Prep:
Leverage VAT deferment; ensure HS code accuracy to avoid 30-day holds .
Risk Mitigation:
Insure high-value goods; diversify ports (e.g., Zeebrugge if Antwerp congested) .
Comparative of Belgium Transport Modes
| Режим | Транзитное Время | Стоимость | Лучше Всего Для |
|---|---|---|---|
| Морские перевозки | 25–35 days | 700–1,300/TEU | Bulk goods, low-urgency shipments |
| Авиаперевозки | 1-3 дня | 3–6/kg | Urgent, high-value items |
| Рельс | 10–15 days | Moderate (air/sea avg) | Eco-friendly bulk; China-EU corridor |
| Дорога | Hours–days (EU) | High for long distance | Last-mile, flexible deliveries |
Port of Antwerp Details
Chinese Port Name: Antwerp
English Port Name: ANTWERP
Port Code: BEANT
Port Abbreviation: ANT
Country: BELGIUM
Coordinates: 51°14’0″N, 4°23’0″E
Time Difference: UTC-1:00
Anchorage Area: Westhinder or Steenbank
Berth Draft: Max 14.95 m (tide-bound inward from 12.50 m)
Chart Number: 139
Port Type: Seaport
Port Size: Very Large
Port Authority: Antwerp Port Authority
Port Description
Antwerp is Belgium’s major commercial port. It sits in the lower Scheldt River, about 90 km west of the river estuary. The tidal channel has a depth of 14 meters at high tide, allowing 100,000-ton vessels to pass freely. Key distances include:
127 nautical miles to Calais
177 nautical miles to Tilbury
117 nautical miles to Rotterdam
383 nautical miles to Hamburg.
The port connects to industrial cities like Brussels and Liège through rail, highway, and inland waterways. An international airport is close by.
Port Layout & Infrastructure
Main area: Along the river’s right bank, surrounding inland waters.
Water area: 1,315 hectares, with over 20 port basins.
Expansion: Currently developing toward the left bank.
Terminal area: ~1,380 hectares; industrial zone: 3,125 hectares.
Additional facilities: Over 100 coastal and inland port basins.
Throughput & Connectivity
Container throughput: 1.55 million TEU (ranked 14th globally).
Transport network:
Inland river networks linking Belgium and Europe.
300+ regular freight highways и 100 daily rail routes to major European cities.
Global role: A major transshipment hub. It handles 1,771 international vessels each year and connects to over 800 ports worldwide.
Appendix: Belgian Port List
| Код порта | Port Name (English) | Port Name (Chinese) | Страна | Route Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BEANT | ANTWERP | 安特卫普 | Belgium | European Base Port |
| BEBRS | BRUGES | 布鲁日 | Belgium | European Inland Point |
| BEBRU | BRUSSEL | 布鲁塞尔 | Belgium | European Inland Point |
| BEGHE | GHENT | 根特 | Belgium | European Inland Point |
| BEHEM | HEMIKSEM | 海米克瑟姆 | Belgium | European Inland Point |
| BELGE | LIEGE | 列日 | Belgium | European Inland Point |
| BENIE | NIEUWPOORT | 尼乌波特 | Belgium | European Inland Point |
| BEOST | OSTEND | 奥斯坦德 | Belgium | European Inland Point |
| BEZEE | ZEEBRUGGE | 泽布吕赫 | Belgium | European Inland Point |
| Source: Belgian port codes and classifications. |
Ключевые примечания
European Base Port: Antwerp is key for major shipping routes in Europe.
Merger Update: Since 2022, Antwerp and Zeebrugge ports have combined to form the Port of Antwerp-Bruges. This merger boosts their container, chemical, and LNG transshipment capabilities.
China Collaboration: Antwerp trains Chinese port managers. It also handles rising trade volumes. For example, in 2015, China’s container throughput reached over 1.3 million tons, a 39.58% increase from the previous year.
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Варианты авиаперевозки грузов, морские перевозки, а также железнодорожные перевозки грузов и перевозки по системе МДП.
We offer Freight Shipping from China to Belgium with convenient shipping service .
Shipping Cost from China to Belgium
| Channel | Время доставки | 21 КГ+ | 45 КГ+ | 71 КГ+ | 101 КГ+ | 500 КГ+ | Примечания |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Europe Express (General Cargo) | 5–7 days | 43.5 | 41.5 | 40.5 | 39.5 | 38.5 | Direct flight from China, tax included, 50% volumetric billing, UPS last mile |
| Europe Express – With Battery | 6–8 days | 43.0 | 41.0 | 40.0 | 39.0 | 38.0 | Battery shipment allowed, strict documentation required |
| Europe Express (6-Day Delivery, Battery) | 5–7 days | 45.5 | 43.5 | 42.5 | 41.5 | 41.5 | Hong Kong flight, tax included, UPS last mile |
| Europe General Line – Battery | 9–12 days | 41.0 | 39.0 | 38.0 | 37.0 | 37.0 | South Korea flight, tax included, UPS last mile |
| Europe General Line – Non-FBA | 9–12 days | 41.0 | 39.0 | 38.0 | 37.0 | 36.0 | China to Belgium, UPS pickup, 50% volumetric billing |
| Europe General Line – Non-FBA (Battery) | 9–12 days | 41.0 | 39.0 | 38.0 | 37.0 | 37.0 | South Korea flight, tax included |
| Oversized – General Cargo | 8–12 days | 56.5 | 52.5 | 46.5 | 45.5 | 45.5 | FedEx delivery, 25KG minimum billing, 30€/piece if >30KG |
| VAT Deferred (all above types) | +RMB 350/VAT | — | — | — | — | — | VAT & EORI required, real tax & duties charged |
| Europe Special Line – Pure Battery (HK) | 7–9 days | 56.0 | 54.0 | 53.0 | 52.0 | 52.0 | Only batteries ≤100WH/20WH allowed, no UN3480 label, requires MSDS & UN38.3. No deferred service (except power banks: -¥1/kg). |
| Europe Sea Shipping – Express Delivery | 35–45 days | 11.5 | — | 9.5 | 8.5 | — | Shenzhen → Yantian → Rotterdam/Antwerp → Germany → UPS pickup. No delay compensation. |
| Europe Sea Shipping – VAT Deferred | 35–45 days | 11.0 | — | 9.0 | 8.0 | — | Amazon or 3PL warehouse only. Private address requires own VAT, VAT fee ¥350/shipment. No delay compensation. |
| China-Europe Railway – Express Delivery | 20–25 days | 14.5 | — | 13.5 | 12.0 | 11.5 | Shenzhen → Alashankou → Russia → Duisburg → Belgium → UPS Germany pickup. Fast rail + UPS delivery. |
| China-Europe Railway – VAT Deferred Express | 20–25 days | 14.0 | — | 13.0 | 11.5 | 11.0 | Same as above, VAT-deferred: Amazon/3PL only. VAT clearance required. |
Europe Shipment Notice:
Key Points to Note
VAT Deferment Not Supported for non-FBA (Fulfilled by Amazon) addresses.
Declare Goods Honestly – Under-declaration can lead to customs inspections, fines, or delays. Minimum declared value should be 30%-40% of retail price; provide sales links if possible.
Prohibited Exports: Maps, globes, fake brands, liquids/powders, food, medicine, flammable/explosive items, antiques, currencies, endangered wood, etc.
Certificates Needed:
Examples: Bluetooth → BQB/LOI, UL, FCC, FDA (medical, sunglasses, ceramics, beauty devices).
Must be real certificates or risk seizure.
Declare 65%+ of actual value to avoid customs checks.
No customs code manipulation to avoid high taxes.
Warehouse Restrictions: No dangerous goods, flammable items, toxic/corrosive substances, aerosols, liquids, perfumes, etc. Non-hazardous liquids require supporting documents (e.g., MSDS, guarantee).
Label Requirement: All products and outer cartons must be labeled “Made in China”.
Shipping Labels: Non-FBA: internal system labels needed; FBA: must match Amazon requirements.
Booking Required: Notify if delayed.
Amazon Issues: e.g., warehouse full, late shelving — customer must follow up with Amazon.
False Declarations: 1st time = warning; 2nd = ¥1000 fine; 3rd = ¥5000 fine. Urgent cargo incurs additional ¥1000 charge.
Double Clearance Risk: Greece, Portugal, Romania, Bulgaria may require second customs clearance (customer pays fees).
Pure Battery Shipment Rules
Battery packs must not exceed 100Wh, individual cells not over 20Wh.
Outer cartons must be plain with no battery labels (e.g., 3480).
Required documents: MSDS, UN38.3, Air Transport Safety Report.
Must use designated 6-day air express line (via Hong Kong).
Compensation Policy
Air Freight (Europe/UK):
Entire shipment missing (never scanned): Up to ¥40/kg, shipping fee refundable.
Partially missing after online scan: Same compensation, no refund.
Lost after being scanned (retrieved): Max $100/order, no refund.
Customs delays over 2 months: Max ¥40/kg + shipping refund.
Rail/Sea Freight:
Similar rules, compensation capped at ¥20/kg or $100/order depending on case.
Investigation & Claim Notes
Claims start 7 days after shipment if no scan/update; max 30 days wait.
Amazon shelfing issues: must be reported within 2 weeks of delivery.
Damaged items inside intact packaging: not covered.
Force majeure events (disasters, strikes, etc.): not covered.
Customs issues due to misreporting by the client: not covered.
Fragile items: not compensated (buy insurance if needed).
If delivery shows signed, no loss claims supported.
For package damage/loss: provide photo evidence of outer box + label + item.
Report issues within 3 working days of delivery.
UPS loss claims require proof before delivery.
Returns, Address Changes, Reshipping
Air freight customs penalty: €200 per case.
Receiver address change: Min ¥200, no EU invoice.
Sea freight:
Intercept fee: ¥20/item (min €50/order).
Relabeling: €2/label.
If delivery country changes: charged at new country rate + ¥1/kg.
No charge if intercept fails.
Rail: container unpack/pack fees: €500 each, customs fees: €200/order.
Self-pickup:
€2/box + €10/order, notify in advance.
UK Specific:
Return: £10/item
Reship: £10/item (includes relabeling & handling)
| Обслуживание | Германия | EU | Handling Fee | Label Fee | Free Storage | Extra Storage Fee | Destruction Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Return | €15/item | €25/item | ¥100/order | €2/label | 5 work days | €0.2/kg/day | €0.5/kg |
| Reship | €8/item | €20/item | ¥100/order | €2/label | 5 work days | €0.2/kg/day | – |
No EU invoices were provided for these costs.
Address corrections by UPS are billed as per actual charges.
FAQ about Shipping from China to Belgium
Морские перевозки:
FCL: Ideal for large volumes (e.g., 20ft container: 2,800–4,500; 40ft: 3,550–5,550).
LCL: Cost-effective for small shipments (80–150/m³).
Транзитное Время: 25–40 days to Antwerp/Zeebrugge.
Авиаперевозки:
Fastest option (3–10 days), priced 5–12/kg. Best for urgent, high-value goods.
Железнодорожные перевозки:
Balance of speed and cost (18–25 days, 6,000–8,000/40ft container) via China-Europe Rail.
Multimodal:
Combines sea/air/rail (e.g., sea to Rotterdam + truck to Belgium).
- Воздух: 3–10 days (direct flights faster).
- Рельс: 18–25 days (including last-mile trucking).
- Море: 25–40 days (subject to port congestion; e.g., Shanghai/Antwerp delays)[[52][72]].
- Delays in 2025: Northern European ports (Antwerp, Hamburg) face 7–10-day berthing waits due to strikes, yard congestion, and alliance reshuffles.
- Import Duty: 0–12% (based on HS code; e.g., textiles=12%, electronics=0–3.7%).
- НДС: 21% standard rate (applied to CIF value: goods + insurance + freight)[[24][37]].
- Таможенные сборы: Brokerage, handling, and processing charges (varies by provider).
- Calculation Example:
Goods value: 10,000+Shipping:1,000 = CIF 11,000Duty(5550 → VAT (21%) = (11,000+550) × 21% = $2,425.50.
- Accurate Documentation: Provide complete commercial invoices, packing lists, and HS codes.
- Avoid Undervaluation: Declare ≥1/3 of sales price to prevent penalties.
- Pre-Clearance: Use forwarders with EU customs expertise (e.g., VAT deferment options)[[24][37]].
- Critical in 2025: Antwerp faces 94-hour barge delays; another strike announced for 20 May (no operations).
- Look for:
- Free value-added services (e.g., warehousing, repacking, quality checks).
- Real-time tracking and multimodal solutions (air/sea/rail).
- Expertise in EU VAT deferment and anti-dumping regulations (e.g., for textiles, furniture).
- Port Congestion:
- Antwerp: Critical yard capacity, strike backlog, 7–10-day vessel waits.
- China: Shanghai/Ningbo anchorage has 130+ waiting ships.
- Route Alternatives:
- Avoid congested ports via Zeebrugge or rail-truck combos[[37][72]].
- E-commerce Trends:
- Leverage Liège Airport (LGG) for faster air cargo (e.g., pre-cleared e-commerce goods).
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