Batteryshipment provides shipping from China to Belgium. In 2024, bilateral trade between China and Belgium reached US$39.19 billion, with the majority transported by sea. We have multiple shipping routes to Belgium. Whether you are a factory sourcing goods or an individual needing to import goods from China to Belgium, this article will provide you with a detailed overview.
How to ship from China to Belgium
Batteryshipment ships from China to Belgium every week. Belgium remains an important gateway for Chinese goods—Belgium’s imports from China reached approximately USD 12.85 billion in 2024. Batteryshipment has extensive experience handling shipments between China and Belgium.
I. Shipping Methods
Sea Freight
FCL (Full Container Load)
Typical transit time to Antwerp or Zeebrugge: 30–40 days.
Market rate for a 20ft container to Northern Europe: approximately EUR 1,000–2,000.
LCL (Less than Container Load)
Transit time: 35–45 days.
Cost: approximately EUR 10–100 per CBM, depending on surcharges and consolidation.
Rail Freight
Transit time: approximately 15–22 days (door to door, depending on origin city and transshipment).
Cost: approximately EUR 100–220 per CBM.
Rail freight is especially suitable for auto parts, as it is faster than sea freight and more cost-effective than air freight.
Air Freight
Door-to-door transit time: approximately 7–12 days (including booking, handling, and customs clearance).
Cost: approximately EUR 3.8–7.5 per kg, depending on weight bracket and season.
Express Shipping
DHL / UPS / FedEx: delivery from China to Belgium in 2–5 days (generally for parcels under 68 kg).
Cost: approximately EUR 4.8–6.5 per kg.
II. Shipping Process
Confirm cargo type:
Determine whether the cargo is classified as dangerous goods. For example, battery shipments require UN-certified packaging and complete battery documentation prepared in advance.
Choose the shipping solution:
After reviewing quotations for different options (DAP, DDU, DDP, air freight, sea freight, express), select the most suitable method and submit the booking request. We will arrange space and reservations.
Prepare documents in advance:
Commercial invoice (including HS code, cargo value, quantity, and EORI numbers of both buyer and seller), packing list (with detailed weight and volume per carton), and CE certification documents.
Customs declaration:
We handle export customs clearance in China, so you don’t need to worry. If the shipment is destined for an airport or seaport, import clearance documents and duty payments must be prepared in advance at destination. The standard VAT rate for most imports into Belgium is 21%.
Delivery and receipt:
After the cargo arrives and completes customs clearance, you may choose our delivery service or arrange self-pickup. Please inspect the cargo and sign for receipt after confirming it is in good condition.
Sea freight from China to Belgium
Shipping from China to Belgium via ocean freight is typically chosen by medium-to-large buyers who need bulk transportation. While transit time may not be the primary concern, it’s important to consider the type of goods, whether your packaging meets maritime standards, and whether FCL (Full Container Load) or LCL (Less than Container Load) is the right choice. Below, we provide an overview of FCL and LCL shipping to help you make the best decision.
FCL Shipping from China to Belgium
At Batteryshipment, we recommend FCL shipping when your goods are high-volume, bulky, fragile, or require a dedicated container. FCL is the most common method for sea shipments to Belgium, handling roughly 30–35% of all Chinese exports to the country.
1. Major ports in China
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Shanghai Port: Comprehensive shipping routes with daily departures from carriers such as Maersk and MSC.
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Ningbo Port: Handles seasonal and express services like the Arctic Express; fast transit, mainly during peak season.
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Shenzhen Yantian Port: Gateway for South China, handling large e-commerce shipments.
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Qingdao Port: Northern China’s trunk port, convenient for transshipment to nearby Asian countries.
2. Major ports in Belgium
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Port of Antwerp: Belgium’s largest port, handling over 30% of shipments from China; primary choice for FCL cargo.
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Port of Zeebrugge: Secondary port suitable for specific cargo types and inland distribution.
3. FCL Shipping Process
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Cargo Confirmation & Booking: We confirm the type, weight, and volume of your cargo, select the best container size, and reserve space with the carrier.
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Documentation Preparation: Prepare commercial invoice, packing list, and customs forms. For batteries or dangerous goods, UN-certified packaging and MSDS are required.
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Container Loading & Pickup: Batteryshipment coordinates pickup from your supplier and supervises loading into the container at the origin port.
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Export Customs Clearance: We handle all Chinese export clearance procedures.
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Ocean Transportation: Container is shipped to Belgium.
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Arrival & Import Clearance: Upon arrival at Antwerp or Zeebrugge, we handle customs clearance and VAT/duty payment if required.
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Final Delivery: Container is transported door-to-door to your warehouse or designated location, with cargo inspection upon receipt.
LCL Shipping from China to Belgium
Batteryshipment also offers LCL shipping for smaller cargo volumes, typically less than one cubic meter up to around ten cubic meters. LCL is flexible and cost-effective, sharing container space with other shipments.
LCL Shipping Process
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Cargo Handover & Booking: We receive your goods at our warehouse in China and consolidate them with other shipments.
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Documentation & Export Clearance: Commercial invoice, packing list, and customs forms are prepared; Batteryshipment handles export clearance.
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Ocean Transport: Consolidated cargo is shipped to Belgium.
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Import Clearance & Delivery: Upon arrival at Antwerp or Zeebrugge, we handle customs clearance and VAT/duty payment, then deliver your cargo door-to-door.
Air freight from China to Belgium
Air freight is the preferred solution for urgent shipments. Batteryshipment ships from China to Belgium every week. Air transport supports loose cargo, palletized shipments, and wooden crate packaging. For dangerous goods such as batteries, palletized or wooden crate packaging is usually required.
Belgium’s main air cargo hubs are Brussels Airport (BRU) and Liège Airport (LGG). Liège Airport is one of Europe’s leading cargo airports, while Brussels Airport focuses on high-value and time-critical shipments. In 2024, Belgium’s total air cargo volume exceeded 1.9 million tons, with cargo from China accounting for a significant share, especially electronics and batteries.
I. Main Air Freight Routes from China to Belgium
Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) → Brussels Airport (BRU)
(Direct and charter cargo flights, flight time approx. 11–12 hours, 3–5 days transit, accounting for about 40% of China–Belgium air freight volume)
Guangzhou Baiyun Airport (CAN) → Liège Airport (LGG)
(Cargo services, 3–6 days transit, widely used for batteries and heavy cargo)
Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) → Brussels Airport (BRU)
(Cathay Pacific and other airlines, 3–4 days transit, stable flight schedules)
Shenzhen / Chengdu → Frankfurt or Dubai → Brussels / Liège
(5–7 days transit, around 10–15% cheaper than direct flights, accounting for about 30% of total volume)
II. Air Freight Process from China to Belgium
Booking & pre-departure preparation
Based on cargo volume, weight, commodity type, and required delivery time, please contact Batteryshipment in advance to secure flight space.
Cargo receiving & export customs clearance
After the cargo arrives at the Batteryshipment warehouse, we check whether the packaging complies with airline requirements, especially for battery shipments. We then handle export customs clearance in China and deliver the cargo to the airport.
Flight departure & tracking
After departure, Batteryshipment issues the air waybill and provides real-time tracking information.
Arrival in Belgium & import customs clearance
Before arrival, Batteryshipment submits shipment information to Belgian Customs. Required documents include the packing list, commercial invoice, and EORI number. For DDU or DDP shipments, we handle customs clearance and payment of duties and VAT. The standard Belgian VAT rate is 21%.
Cargo pickup & final delivery
After customs clearance, we collect the cargo from the airport terminal and usually arrange delivery anywhere in Belgium within one working day.
Rail freight from China to Belgium
When you need to balance cost and transit time, rail freight from China to Belgium is a practical option. At Batteryshipment, we regularly transport batteries and general cargo from China to Belgium by rail. Compared with sea freight, rail transport is faster; compared with air freight, it is more cost-effective.
I. Main Rail Routes from China to Belgium
For China–Europe rail transport, the choice of departure city in China and the European rail hub is critical to overall transit time and cost. Below are the Belgium-bound routes we operate most frequently.
Main departure cities in China
Chengdu
Rail services mainly exit via Alashankou or Manzhouli, located on the core China–Europe rail corridors. Trains operate 5–7 times per week with stable schedules. Typical door-to-door transit time from China to Belgium is around 16–20 days.
Xi’an
Via the Alashankou border, Xi’an operates high-frequency China–Europe block trains, including cross-border e-commerce cargo. Departures run 4–6 times per week, with an average 17–21 days transit to Belgium.
Zhengzhou
Using the Erenhot or Alashankou routes, Zhengzhou has mature rail connections to Western Europe. With 4–6 weekly departures, transit to Belgium usually takes 18–22 days, depending on congestion and final distribution.
Belgium destinations and distribution
Antwerp / Antwerp–Bruges Rail Terminals
Antwerp is the main hub for China–Belgium rail freight. With direct access to the Port of Antwerp–Bruges and inland rail yards, containers can be delivered within 24 hours across Belgium after arrival, and to neighboring countries such as the Netherlands, Germany, and France within 1–3 days.
Liège
Liège is an important inland logistics and multimodal hub. Rail cargo arriving in Liège can be quickly transferred to road transport or air freight if required.
Brussels (inland terminals)
Primarily used as a secondary destination for time-sensitive or high-value cargo, enabling fast last-mile delivery.
II. Rail Freight Transit Time and Cost (Reference)
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Door-to-door transit time: approximately 15–22 days
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Rail freight cost: approximately EUR 100–220 per CBM, depending on origin city, season, and cargo type
Rail freight is particularly suitable for automotive parts, industrial components, batteries, and bulk e-commerce cargo, providing a reliable alternative to sea freight at a much lower cost than air transport.
Express shipping from China to Belgium
For urgent shipments, international express courier is another efficient option that Batteryshipment frequently uses for shipments from China to Belgium. Express services have strict limits on parcel size and weight, but when cargo meets courier requirements, express shipping is often faster—and sometimes more economical—than air freight for small to medium volumes. It is also the preferred solution for samples, spare parts, and time-sensitive e-commerce orders.
In 2024, more than 95 million express parcels were shipped from China to Belgium, showing strong year-on-year growth. The main drivers were electronics, accessories, and battery-related products.
I. International Express Services to Belgium
International couriers apply standard size and weight limits:
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Maximum weight per piece: ≤ 68 kg
(Overweight shipments require prior approval, with surcharges of €15–€120 per piece) -
Maximum single side length: ≤ 108 cm
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Maximum girth: ≤ 400 cm
Main service options
DHL Express
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Transit time: 2–4 days
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Cost: approx. €4.8/kg
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Fast customs clearance in Belgium, stable service
UPS
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Transit time: 3–5 days
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Cost: approx. €5.0/kg
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Nationwide coverage across Belgium
FedEx
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Transit time: 3–6 days
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Cost: approx. €5.2/kg
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A reliable choice for commercial cargo and samples
II. Core Express Shipping Process (China → Belgium)
Cargo delivery & inspection
You deliver the goods to our warehouse. Our team checks the packaging and repacks if necessary to meet courier requirements, especially for batteries or fragile items.
Waybill creation & dispatch
You provide the commercial invoice. Batteryshipment prepares the shipment on the same day, creates the waybill, applies labels, and provides a tracking number with an online tracking link.
Customs clearance in Belgium
After arrival at Brussels or Liège Airport, customs clearance is usually completed online. Required documents typically include the commercial invoice and packing list. If needed, we can prepay duties and VAT on your behalf. Belgium’s standard VAT rate is 21%.
Final delivery
Once customs clearance and tax payment are completed, parcels are delivered on business days, usually within one working day anywhere in Belgium.
III. Batteryshipment Express Courier Services
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Tier-1 agent partnerships with DHL, UPS, and FedEx for fast booking and priority handling
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Ability to ship general cargo, batteries, electric bicycles, and other special goods through compliant channels
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Highly competitive express rates, ensuring speed and delivery reliability while controlling costs
If you need to ship goods urgently from China to Belgium and are unsure whether express courier or air freight is more suitable, Batteryshipment can help you compare both options and select the most appropriate solution.
Door to door shipping from China to Belgium
Door-to-door shipping from China to Belgium is one of the most efficient logistics solutions we offer at Batteryshipment. We manage the entire shipping process from Chinese suppliers to your final delivery address in Belgium, allowing you to receive your cargo without handling complex logistics steps.
With Batteryshipment’s door-to-door service, we take care of pickup in China, international transportation, customs clearance, and final delivery through major Belgian logistics hubs such as Antwerp, Zeebrugge, Brussels, and Liège. This integrated approach reduces coordination costs, shortens transit time, and gives you full visibility and control over your shipment.
Door-to-Door Shipping Methods from China to Belgium
At Batteryshipment, door-to-door services can be arranged through the following transport modes:
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Sea Freight (FCL & LCL) – Suitable for large volumes and cost-sensitive shipments
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Air Freight – Ideal for time-critical and high-value cargo
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Rail Freight – A balanced option between cost and transit time for inland destinations
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International Express Courier – Best for samples, small parcels, and urgent deliveries
We help you select the most suitable door-to-door solution based on your cargo type, delivery deadline, and overall logistics budget.
Battery shipping from China to Belgium
Shipping batteries from China to Belgium must strictly comply with international transport regulations and EU import regulations. Belgium is a major gateway to Europe, possessing the ports of Antwerp and Zeebrugge, as well as Brussels Airport (BRU) and Liège Airport (LGG).
Lithium batteries belong to Class 9 dangerous goods, including lithium-ion batteries (UN3480/UN3481) and lithium metal batteries (UN3090/UN3091). Each battery type has specific transport and packaging requirements that must be met for safe and legal transport.
The mode of transport depends on the urgency and volume:
Air freight is the preferred option for urgent or high-value batteries.
Sea freight is the economical option for bulk shipments.
Rail transport and express delivery are suitable for certain types of batteries and smaller volumes.
Complete documentation is crucial. Typical documents include a UN38.3 test report, MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet), commercial invoice, packing list, and packaging conforming to UN standards with correct labeling. Incorrect or incomplete documentation often leads to delays or customs detention.
Shipping Process:
Confirm battery type and select appropriate shipping method.
Prepare all necessary documents (packing list, commercial invoice, MSDS, UN38.3) and compliant packaging (UN standard boxes, pallets, or wooden crates). Batteryshipment can provide certified packaging if needed.
Complete export customs clearance in China, typically handled by Batteryshipment.
Arrange import customs clearance in Belgium. You can use your own local customs broker, or Batteryshipment can handle customs clearance and duty/VAT payment on your behalf.
Choose final door-to-door delivery service through Batteryshipment or your designated Belgian carrier.
Batteryshipment provides dangerous goods transport services from China to Belgium, offering flexible DAP/DDP options and complete door-to-door delivery services. We support the transport of goods including power banks, electric vehicle batteries, energy storage systems, and e-bike batteries, ensuring your goods enter the EU market safely and efficiently.
Shipping cost from China to Belgium
Shipping costs from China to Belgium depend on several factors, including the transport method, cargo weight and volume, seasonal fluctuations, and destination port or airport charges. At Batteryshipment, we provide a range of shipping solutions to Belgium and can help you choose the most cost-effective option for your cargo.
Sea Freight Costs from China to Belgium
| Type | Estimated Cost | Main Ports | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| FCL 20’ | EUR 1,100 – 2,000 | Shanghai, Ningbo, Shenzhen → Antwerp/Zeebrugge | Suitable for full-container shipments; bulk cargo like machinery, furniture, and batteries |
| FCL 40’ | EUR 1,800 – 3,500 | Same as above | Large-volume shipments; flexible container options |
| LCL | EUR 10 – 100 / CBM | Same as above | Consolidated shipments; minimum 1 CBM; suitable for smaller cargo |
Air Freight Costs from China to Belgium
| Weight Range | Estimated Cost (EUR/kg) | Main Airports | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 45–100 kg | 4.5 – 7.0 | Shanghai (PVG), Shenzhen (SZX), Guangzhou (CAN) → Brussels (BRU) / Liège (LGG) | High-value, urgent cargo; electronics, samples |
| 100–300 kg | 4.0 – 6.0 | Same as above | Cost-effective for medium shipments |
| 300+ kg | 3.5 – 5.5 | Same as above | Large shipments; may require pallet or crate packaging |
Rail Freight Costs from China to Belgium
| Mode | Estimated Cost | Main Rail Hubs | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rail LCL | EUR 100 – 220 / CBM | Xi’an, Chengdu, Zhengzhou → Antwerp/Liège | Ideal for mid-value cargo and e-commerce goods |
| Rail FCL (40HQ) | EUR 5,000 – 8,000 | Same as above | Full-container shipments; faster than sea freight, more economical than air |
Express Courier Costs from China to Belgium
| Carrier | Estimated Cost (EUR/kg) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| DHL / UPS / FedEx | 4.8 – 6.5 | Small parcels, urgent samples, documents; usually <30–100 kg |
| Battery / Dangerous Goods | 5.0 – 7.0 | Requires UN38.3 & MSDS compliance; slightly longer handling time |
Shipping time from China to Belgium
Shipping from China to Belgium depends on the transport method, the type of cargo, and the shipment volume. At Batteryshipment, we handle all aspects of the journey, from factory pickup in China to delivery at your Belgian address. Transit times can vary—sea freight is slower, air freight is faster, and special cargo like batteries or dangerous goods may require extra handling. Holidays such as Chinese New Year or Christmas can also affect schedules.
Shipping Time Table (China → Belgium)
| Shipping Method | Type / Route | Transit Time (Door-to-Door) | Notes / Cargo Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight | FCL 20’/40’ (Shanghai/Ningbo/Shenzhen → Antwerp/Zeebrugge) | 30–40 days | Suitable for bulk, non-urgent cargo such as machinery, furniture, and batteries |
| Sea Freight | LCL (Shanghai/Ningbo/Shenzhen → Antwerp/Zeebrugge) | 35–45 days | Smaller shipments consolidated with other cargo; extra handling may add time |
| Rail Freight | China–Belgium (Yiwu/Chengdu/Zhengzhou → Antwerp/Liège) | 16–22 days | Mid-value cargo, industrial parts, and e-commerce shipments; faster than sea freight |
| Air Freight | PVG/CAN/HKG → BRU (direct) | 7–12 days | High-value, urgent cargo, electronics, and samples |
| Air Freight | PVG/CAN → FRA → BRU/LGG (via transit) | 9–14 days | Cost-effective alternative to direct flights; may add 1–3 days for transfer |
| Express Courier | DHL / UPS / FedEx (door-to-door) | 2–5 days | Small parcels, urgent samples, and documents; usually under 30 kg per package |
| Express Courier | Battery / Dangerous Goods | 3–6 days | Requires UN38.3 & MSDS compliance; slightly longer handling time |
Shipping agent from China to Belgium
Why choose Batteryshipment for shipping from China to Belgium？
Batteryshipment offers reliable and efficient shipping solutions from China to Belgium. With over 20 years of experience, we handle both general and special cargo, including batteries and related products.
We offer sea, air, express, and rail transport services, all with door-to-door service within Belgium. Real-time tracking is available for each mode of transport, giving you peace of mind.
Batteryshipment’s advantages:
Direct agent for international express services.
Certified in handling dangerous goods, including professional battery packaging.
Free warehousing services at both origin and destination.
Door-to-door service within Belgium.
Experienced service team providing 24/7 support.
Choose Batteryshipment, and your goods can be safely and efficiently transported from China to Belgium, reducing risk and operational complexity, allowing you to focus on your core business.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sea freight:FCL:1000-3000EUR/container LCL:10-100EUR/CBM
Air freight:3.5EUR-7EUR/KG
Rail freight:100-200EUR/CBM
Sea freight:30-45 Days
Air freight:5-9 Days
Rail freight:20-35 Days
Yes,Batteryshipment can provide this service.
Of course,we can do DAP,DDP and DDU.
Commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or airway bill, and any required certificates (e.g., CE, UN38.3 for batteries).
Yes, you can choose batteryshipment to handle customs clearance for you, and we will take care of the documentation for you.
Hazardous chemicals, explosives, firearms, some food products, and certain plants/animals
Yes. The standard VAT rate in Belgium is 21%, payable on most imported goods.