Air Freight Shipping from/to the Netherlands

Air freight is the fastest way to move goods between the Netherlands and the rest of the world. With strong exports in pharmaceuticals, flowers, fresh produce, machinery, chemicals, and electronics, the Netherlands relies on efficient logistics to remain one of Europe’s top trading hubs. iContainers connects your business to global air freight lanes with instant online quotes, transparent pricing, and expert customs support.

Get an Air Freight Quote from/to the Netherlands

Instant Online Rates

Get real-time quotes for air freight shipments to and from the Netherlands with just a few clicks. Compare multiple airlines and transit routes, then instantly book through our digital platform.

How to Book Air Freight with iContainers

1. Request your online quote.
2. Select your preferred route and airline.
3. Upload shipment details and required documents.
4. Confirm and pay securely online.

Customs Clearance and Tracking Support

We provide full assistance with customs clearance in the Netherlands and destination countries. From requirements set by the Dutch Customs Authority (Douane) to agricultural and food inspections by the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA), our experts ensure compliance with EU and Dutch regulations. You also benefit from end-to-end shipment tracking for complete visibility.

Air Freight Services from/to the Netherlands

Shipping Large Cargo and Pallets (LCL by Air)

Key Dutch exports shipped by air include:

• Pharmaceuticals and medical devices
• Flowers and plants (cut flowers, tulips)
• Fresh produce (vegetables, fruit, dairy)
• Machinery and industrial equipment
• Electronics and high-tech components
• Chemicals and specialty products

Typical Transit Times for Air Freight Netherlands Routes

• Amsterdam (AMS) → New York: ~2–3 business days
• Amsterdam (AMS) → Dubai: ~2–3 business days
• Amsterdam (AMS) → Shanghai: ~4–6 business days
• Amsterdam (AMS) → London: <24 hours (hub-to-hub)
• Amsterdam (AMS) → Frankfurt: <24 hours

Main Airports in the Netherlands for Air Freight

• Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS): One of Europe’s largest cargo hubs, specializing in flowers, perishables, pharmaceuticals, and high-tech goods.
• Maastricht Aachen Airport (MST): Regional cargo hub, supporting perishables and industrial goods.
• Eindhoven Airport (EIN): Secondary hub for express shipments and regional exports.

Air Freight Costs from/to the Netherlands

Weight, Volume, and Cargo Type Factors

Air freight charges are based on chargeable weight (actual vs. volumetric). Pharmaceuticals and perishables often require temperature-controlled handling, while flowers require careful packaging to preserve freshness.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

Dutch exports influence costs:

• Flowers (peaks in Feb, May, Dec): Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, and year-end holidays drive demand.
• Pharmaceuticals (year-round): Consistent demand with strict cold-chain logistics.
• Fresh produce (seasonal): Export peaks during harvest periods.
• Holiday season (Oct–Dec): Global air cargo demand increases rates.

Customs Duties, Surcharges, and Local Fees

In addition to freight charges, shipments may include:

• Duties and VAT under Dutch Customs (Douane) and EU law.
• Agricultural and food inspection fees from NVWA.
• Handling and airport security charges.
• Aviation fuel surcharges.

Documentation & Packaging Requirements

Air Waybill and Commercial Invoice

Every shipment requires:

• Air Waybill (AWB): Contract between airline and shipper.
• Commercial Invoice: For customs clearance.
• Packing List: Cargo breakdown.
• EU Export Declarations (EAD): For goods leaving the EU.
• Phytosanitary/Health Certificates: For flowers, food, and agricultural goods (issued by NVWA).

Packaging Standards for Palletized Cargo

• ISPM-15 certified pallets.
• Refrigerated packaging for pharmaceuticals, flowers, and fresh produce.
• Shrink-wrap, strapping, and clear labeling.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

The Netherlands follows IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) plus EU and national law:

• Prohibited: Explosives, narcotics, highly flammable goods.
• Restricted: Agricultural exports (require NVWA clearance), pharmaceuticals (regulated by the Medicines Evaluation Board – CBG), and cultural heritage goods (require permits from the Netherlands Cultural Heritage Agency).