Sea container and China imports
10-07-2025
byBeau van den Berg/April 9, 2026/atOcean freight news
Sea container transport is a proven and efficient method of importing goods worldwide. For companies sourcing their products from regions such as Asia, North America or the Middle East, a well-organized ocean freight chain is indispensable.
At Neele-Vat, we take care of the entire process: from booking your shipping container, through customs clearance, to final delivery to your location in Europe. Thanks to our decades of experience, global infrastructure and local knowledge, we offer a smooth, cost-efficient and transparent approach to every transport project.
What does sea container transport cost?
Shipping costs for shipping containers depend on several factors:
- Origin and destination of goods
- The container type chosen (20 ft, 40 ft or 40 ft High Cube).
- The type of goods (dry, conditioned, ADR)
- Whether you choose FCL or LCL
- Market conditions such as fuel surcharges, congestion or currency exchange rates
Additional costs may include:
- Port and transshipment costs
- Customs formalities and import duties
- Inland transport in Europe (road, water or rail)
- Optional services such as storage, labeling or quality control.
At Neele-Vat, you will always receive a customized quote so that you have full insight into the total cost of your sea container transport in advance.
LCL or FCL: which form of container transport suits your imports?
- FCL (Full Container Load) is suitable for companies that can fill a full container. You enjoy maximum control, short lead times and a dedicated container.
- LCL (Less than Container Load) is ideal for smaller volumes. Your goods are combined with those of other importers. This is cost-efficient and flexible for regular, small-scale shipments.
Our specialists are happy to advise you on the choice between FCL and LCL, based on your volumes, timing and margins.
Container sizes and loading capacities
Correct container selection prevents unnecessary costs or delays. Most commonly used container types:
| Type | Inside dimensions (L × W × H) | Volume | Max. cargo |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 ft | 5,87 × 2,35 × 2,39 m | 33 m³ | ±21,800 kg |
| 40 ft | 12,03 × 2,35 × 2,39 m | 67 m³ | ±26,500 kg |
| 40 ft HC | 12,03 × 2,35 × 2,69 m | 76 m³ | ±26,500 kg |
Our teams will be happy to advise you on the right format, tailored to the type of goods, cargo volume and required transport time.
Customs clearance and clearance of shipping containers
Upon arrival in Europe, we guide your shipment through the entire customs clearance process. This includes:
- Preparation and filing of the import declaration
- Assigning correct commodity codes (HS codes).
- Review of documentation such as EUR.1, certificates of origin or invoices
- Application of trade agreements and possible exemptions
Neele-Vat has its own AEO-certified customs department, ensuring faster processing, reduced risk of inspection and optimal regulatory compliance.
Inland transportation and additional logistics services
After successful customs clearance, we ensure delivery of your goods to any address in Europe. We offer:
- FTL and LTL transport by truck
- Inland shipping and rail logistics
- Express deliveries for time-critical shipments
Our additional services:
- Temporary or long-term storage in secure warehouses
- Repackaging, repackaging and labeling
- Quality checks, scanning and counting
Thanks to strategic locations in and around Rotterdam and other European logistics hubs, fast and reliable delivery is guaranteed.
Why choose Neele-Vat as your ocean freight partner?
As a family business with nearly 50 years of experience, Neele-Vat guarantees expertise, commitment and flexibility.
Your benefits:
- Complete care from A to Z
- In-house customs and import expertise.
- Global network of agents and carriers
- Personal service and fixed points of contact
- Clear pricing structures without surprises
Ready to import via sea container?
Whether you import a container sporadically or process multiple shipments weekly, at Neele-Vat you will find a reliable partner who thinks with you and acts proactively.
Contact our ocean freight specialists for a free consultation or a competitive quote. We get your global cargo flow moving - safely, efficiently and fully taken care of.
