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FAQ & Glossary

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General FAQ's

Transit times vary by transport method and destination. Ocean freight typically takes 4-6 weeks, air freight 2-7 days, and rail freight between Europe and China around 20-25 days.

Yes, all our transport modes feature real-time track & trace. You can follow your shipment 24/7 via our platform or through direct contact with our team.

We support all common incoterms (EXW, FCA, DDP, etc.) and are happy to advise you on the most suitable option for your shipment. 

You must provide a valid MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet). We’ll guide you through packaging, labeling, and regulatory requirements. 

Yes, we offer full customs brokerage services, ensuring your goods are cleared quickly and in compliance with local regulations. 

OCEAN FREIGHT FAQ's

Yes, we handle the proper and timely application of waiver/ECTN/BESC documents for shipments to Africa to avoid delays or penalties. 

We specialize in shipping IMO-classified goods and ensure correct classification, packaging, labeling, and documentation for safe sea transport. 

Yes, for seasonal exports to destinations like Australia or New Zealand, we check whether your cargo falls under BMSB regulations and assist with required treatment or inspection. 

AIR FREIGHT FAQ's

Air freight is the fastest way of shipping. This makes it ideal for shipments that need to get to their destination ASAP. BTS Logistics offers air freight solutions via major airports, including express services and full customs support.  

Yes, our specialists uphold high standards when shipping dangerous goods via air. Also, there are strict packaging/labelling rules and laws that we adhere to. 

We’ll notify you immediately, investigate the issue, and work with you to find a fast solution such as repackaging or re-routing. 

Rail Freight FAQ's

Yes, we provide intermodal and direct rail services to and from China offering faster transit than ocean freight. 

In some cases, yes. We assess each shipment to determine if rail is suitable and ensure proper documentation and compliance. 

Extreme weather may impact transit times. We keep you informed in real-time and offer alternative solutions if needed. 

Absolutely. We offer consolidation options for smaller shipments. ideal for LCL cargo to or from Asia via rail. 

Freight & logistics dictionary

Air Cargo Netherlands (ACN) is the voice of the Dutch cargo industry. It brings together airports, airlines, freight forwarders, handlers, and service providers to strengthen the sector’s competitive edge and drive growth.

What ACN does:

  • Represents your interests with government and regulatory bodies.
  • Connects the industry through collaboration and knowledge sharing.
  • Promotes Dutch air cargo nationally and worldwide.
  • Supports members with advice on regulations, policies, and market trends.

By joining ACN, companies gain direct access to a powerful network, industry insights, and opportunities to shape the future of Dutch air freight. Members benefit from events, training, and workshops, while having their voice heard at the highest levels.

For businesses like BTS Logistics, ACN membership means being part of the conversation that shapes tomorrow’s air cargo industry.

AGS is the Netherlands’ electronic system for submitting import and export customs declarations. Part of the EU-wide network, it ensures declarations are faster, more accurate, and fully compliant.

Key features:

  • Electronic submission via a secure online platform.
  • EU-standardized format for consistency across borders.
  • Faster processing with fewer manual steps.
  • High accuracy thanks to automated checks.

For logistics providers, AGS is essential for smooth, compliant customs handling.

Cargo logistics covers the planning, execution, and control of goods transport from origin to final destination. The goal: deliver on time, in full, at optimal cost.

Core elements:

  • Transport management: Choosing the right routes and modes.
  • Warehousing & distribution: Efficient storage and delivery.
  • Inventory control: Stock available where and when it’s needed.
  • Customs clearance: Compliance with trade regulations.

Strong cargo logistics keeps global supply chains running efficiently — and keeps customers happy.

Cross-docking moves goods directly from inbound trucks to outbound transport with minimal or no storage.
Result: faster deliveries, lower costs, and a leaner supply chain.

Benefits:

  • Reduced storage needs → lower costs.
  • Faster turnaround → shorter lead times.
  • Greater efficiency → fewer handling steps.

Ideal for high-volume, time-sensitive products.

Customs clearance is the official process that allows goods to enter or leave a country. It involves submitting required documents, paying duties/taxes, and complying with import/export rules.

Key steps:

  • Document submission.
  • Duties and taxes payment.
  • Compliance checks.

Without clearance, goods can’t legally cross borders, making it a vital step in global trade.

An Export Declaration is the official document declaring goods for export to customs. It details the goods’ description, value, destination, and other key data required for compliance.

Key points:

  • Compliance: Ensures exports meet all legal requirements.
  • Customs processing: Speeds up clearance by providing complete, accurate data.
  • Trade statistics: Supplies data for government economic reporting.

Example: A Dutch bike manufacturer shipping to the U.S. files an export declaration listing quantity, value, HS codes, and destination. Customs reviews and approves before shipment.

Fiscal Customs Clearance covers the tax side of importing and exporting, paying duties, VAT, and related charges to comply with customs laws.

Key points:

  • Tax calculation: Based on goods’ value, type, and origin.
  • Regulatory compliance: Meets national and international customs rules.
  • Accurate documentation: Includes invoices, certificates of origin, and permits.

Example: Importing medical equipment from Germany to the Netherlands requires correct duty and VAT calculation, proper documentation, and proof of origin for smooth clearance.

A Freight Forwarder arranges the transport and storage of goods on behalf of importers and exporters. They are the link between shippers and carriers, navigating regulations, documentation, and logistics complexity.

Key points:

  • Regulatory expertise: Knowledge of customs, import/export laws, and required documents.
  • Strong network: Access to trusted carriers for cost-effective, reliable routes.
  • Risk management: Handles insurance, compliance, and problem-solving in transit.

Example: Exporting machinery from the Netherlands to Brazil? A freight forwarder organizes sea freight, customs clearance, inland delivery, and packaging advice, ensuring the shipment arrives safely and compliantly.

A freight rate is the price paid to move goods from point A to point B, usually per unit of weight, volume, or distance. Rates depend on transport mode, distance, cargo type, market demand, and competition.

Key points:

  • Rate Structure – Calculated per ton, per container, per km, or as a flat fee.
  • Influencing Factors – Fuel costs, market demand, seasonality, and carrier costs.
  • Negotiation – Long-term contracts or volume deals can lower costs.

Example:
A logistics company shipping electronics from Shanghai to Rotterdam compares carrier quotes based on speed, service, and cost, choosing the best fit for their needs and budget.

Understanding freight rates is key for controlling costs, negotiating better deals, and staying competitive.

Incoterms® are globally recognized rules defining buyer and seller responsibilities in international trade. They clarify who handles transport, insurance, customs clearance, costs, and risks.

Key points:

  • Delivery terms: State where and when risk transfers from seller to buyer.
  • Responsibilities: Define who arranges and pays for shipping, insurance, and clearance.
  • Global standard: Used worldwide to prevent misunderstandings.

Example: Under FOB (Free on Board), the seller delivers goods on board a ship at the departure port; the buyer takes over from there.

Inventory Management is the backbone of efficient logistics. It’s about keeping the right products, in the right quantity, at the right time, without overstocking or running out. A smart system keeps operations lean, costs low, and customers happy.

Key Points:

  • Balance stock levels – meet demand without tying up cash in excess inventory.
  • Rotate regularly – prevent product ageing and waste.
  • Control costs – avoid the expense of overstock or shortages.

Example: An electronics retailer uses a Just-In-Time (JIT) approach, ordering only when demand arises. This keeps storage costs low and products fresh.

Effective inventory management isn’t just good practice, it’s a competitive advantage.

Inward Processing is an EU customs procedure that allows goods from outside the EU to be imported for processing and then re-exported without paying import duties or VAT. This supports global trade efficiency by treating these goods neutrally while they are temporarily in the EU.

Main types:

  • Processing: Goods are altered but keep their identity (e.g., dyeing textiles).
  • Transformation: Goods are combined into a new product, losing their original form (e.g., turning raw agricultural products into food).
  • Repair: Fixing imported goods (e.g., replacing worn parts).
  • Use of production tools: Enhancing goods for export without significant physical change.

Customs procedures:

  • Suspension procedure: No duties on goods processed for export.
  • Drawback procedure: Duties are paid upfront but refunded upon proof of export.

JIT is a supply chain strategy that eliminates excess inventory and delivers materials exactly when needed. The goal? Lower costs, higher efficiency, and zero waste.

How It Works:
Suppliers deliver goods in sync with production schedules — no stockpiles, no delays.

Example:
A car manufacturer receives parts daily, aligned with production needs. No extra storage, no outdated stock.

Benefits:

  • Cost savings – less stock, less storage expense.
  • Higher efficiency – materials arrive exactly when required.
  • Better quality – focus on inspecting and using goods immediately.
  • Flexibility – adapt quickly to demand changes.

Challenge:
JIT demands flawless planning and reliable suppliers, a single delay can disrupt the entire chain.

The final stretch from a hub to the customer’s door. The make-or-break moment in delivery. Fast, accurate last-mile service drives customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Key Focus Areas:

  • Speed & efficiency – optimize routes and reduce costs.
  • Customer experience – deliver on time, in perfect condition.
  • Technology – real-time tracking, smart routing, instant updates.

Example:
An e-commerce retailer uses AI-powered route planning and local couriers. Customers get live tracking and delivery alerts, reducing missed deliveries and boosting satisfaction.

Mastering last-mile delivery isn’t optional, it’s a competitive edge.

Lean Manufacturing is all about cutting waste and boosting productivity. By streamlining operations and focusing only on what adds value for the customer, businesses can work faster, smarter, and more cost-effectively.

Core principles:

  • Eliminate waste: Remove all non-value-adding activities.
  • Continuous improvement (Kaizen): Always look for smarter, faster, better ways to work.
  • Customer value: Prioritize what directly benefits the customer.

Example:
An automaker redesigns its production line, eliminates overproduction, reduces waiting times, and cross-trains staff. The result? Faster production, lower costs, and consistently high quality.

In logistics, where speed and efficiency are everything, Lean Manufacturing can mean streamlined operations, better service, and long-term growth.

LTL shipping combines smaller shipments from multiple shippers into one truck. It’s perfect when your goods are too big for parcels, too small for a full truck. The result: lower costs and smarter transport.

Key points:

  • Consolidation: Multiple shipments in one truck = shared costs.
  • Pricing: Based on weight, distance, and freight class.
  • Network efficiency: Shipments move through hubs for sorting and delivery.

Example:
A Dutch electronics manufacturer consolidates small orders for various EU customers into one LTL load, saving money while ensuring timely, efficient delivery.

For logistics companies, LTL is a flexible, cost-effective service that delivers real value to customers.

An LDM measures how much loading space cargo takes in a truck or container. It’s essential for planning, pricing, and maximizing capacity.

Why It Matters:

  • Standard unit – easy to calculate vehicle/container capacity.
  • Cost calculation – transport fees often depend on LDM usage.
  • Optimization – ensures every cubic meter is used efficiently.

Example:
A logistics company ships electronics across Europe. By calculating LDMs, they load trucks to full capacity and cut transport costs.

LDM keeps freight planning precise and profits healthy.

A Logistics Service Provider is a specialist partner that handles all or part of your supply chain. From transport and warehousing to customs clearance and value-added services, an LSP helps companies work smarter, cut costs, and reduce complexity.

What they offer:

  • Full-service logistics: Transport, storage, distribution, and more.
  • Industry expertise: Knowledge to solve complex supply chain challenges.
  • Tech-driven solutions: Real-time visibility and efficiency through advanced systems.

Example:
A consumer goods manufacturer partners with an LSP for worldwide distribution, customs clearance, and order handling. This frees them to focus on core business and growth.

For companies like BTS Logistics, being a reliable, flexible LSP means delivering high-quality solutions that build long-term client trust.

Packaging in logistics refers to reusable transport materials (pallets, crates, containers) that protect goods during transport and storage. It’s not just about wrapping products; it’s about ensuring efficiency, safety, and sustainability in the supply chain.

Key points:

  • Protection: Shields goods from damage during handling and transit.
  • Efficiency: Standardized packaging makes loading, unloading, and storage faster and easier.
  • Sustainability: Reusable solutions reduce waste and cut costs.

Example:
A tech manufacturer ships products in reusable crates, which are returned, cleaned, and reused — saving money, reducing damage, and boosting efficiency.

Quay fees — or port fees — are charges from port authorities for docking and using port facilities. They cover vessel handling, cargo operations, and infrastructure upkeep.

What’s Included:

  • Docking – cost depends on vessel size, stay duration, and cargo type.
  • Services – cranes, pilotage, waste disposal, admin fees.
  • Maintenance – keeps ports safe, modern, and efficient.

Example:
A container ship docking in Rotterdam pays quay fees based on vessel size and time at berth, plus handling costs for cranes and cargo clearance.

For logistics companies, understanding quay fees is vital for accurate budgeting and competitive pricing.

Reverse Logistics manages the flow of goods back from customers to manufacturers — for returns, recycling, refurbishing, or disposal. It’s a key driver of sustainability and customer loyalty.

Focus areas:

  • Returns management: Handling customer returns and warranty claims smoothly.
  • Recycling & disposal: Environmentally responsible waste handling.
  • Value recovery: Repairing, reusing, or refurbishing to extend product life.

Example:
An electronics brand takes back old devices, refurbishes usable ones for resale, and recycles valuable materials from the rest. This saves costs, helps the planet, and strengthens the brand.

For companies like BTS Logistics, efficient reverse logistics means better service, lower costs, and stronger brand reputation.

Supply Chain Management is the backbone of any successful business. It’s about coordinating every step, from sourcing raw materials to delivering the final product, so the entire chain runs smarter, faster, and at lower cost.

A strong SCM system ensures:

  • Efficient production with minimal waste.
  • On-time deliveries that keep customers happy.
  • Agility to adapt to market shifts or disruptions.

Think of it as the art of making sure every link in the chain works seamlessly, so your product reaches customers better, faster, cheaper.

Supply Chain Visibility means knowing exactly where your goods are and what’s happening, from origin to final delivery. It’s about real-time insight into goods, data, and financial flows, so you can make faster, smarter decisions.

Key elements include:

  • Real-time tracking – See shipments move in real time.
  • Data sharing – Keep suppliers, logistics partners, and customers aligned.
  • Analytics – Spot risks, improve efficiency, and plan ahead.

With strong visibility, you don’t just react to changes, you anticipate them. The result: fewer delays, better service, and a stronger competitive edge.

Third-Party Logistics (3PL) is when you outsource your logistics operations to experts, so you can focus on growing your business. A 3PL partner handles transportation, warehousing, fulfillment, and more, faster and more cost-effectively than doing it in-house.

Benefits of 3PL:

  • Lower costs through shared networks and resources.
  • Expertise in complex supply chain challenges.
  • Flexibility to scale with demand.

Services often include:

  • Transport (road, rail, air, sea)
  • Warehousing & fulfillment
  • Value-added services (packing, labeling, returns)

A great 3PL partner isn’t just a vendor, they’re a strategic ally who helps you deliver on time, cut costs, and gain a market advantage.

A Transportation Management System (TMS) is smart logistics software that helps plan, execute, and optimise every step of your transport process. From creating orders and selecting carriers to route planning, real-time tracking, and cost control—TMS keeps your supply chain moving efficiently and cost-effectively.

Key functions:

  • Order Management – Create, edit, and track shipments from booking to delivery.
  • Route Optimisation – Plan the fastest, most cost-efficient routes.
  • Carrier Selection – Choose the right partner based on price, service, and capacity.
  • Real-Time Tracking – Always know where your shipments are.
  • Reporting & Analysis – Gain insights to improve performance.

Example:
A global retailer uses TMS to track shipments from departure to store delivery. Real-time data helps them spot delays early, adjust inventory, and keep operations smooth, and maintaining a competitive edge in the market.

A Warehouse Management System (WMS) is software that streamlines every aspect of warehouse operations: receiving, storing, picking, packing, and shipping goods. It boosts accuracy, speed, and productivity.

Core functions:

  • Receiving – Instantly log incoming goods for accurate inventory.
  • Storage Management – Assign the right storage location for optimal space use.
  • Order Picking – Guide pickers efficiently to save time.

Benefits:

  • Faster, more accurate order processing.
  • Lower operational costs.
  • Higher customer satisfaction.

Example:
In a busy distribution center, WMS instantly finds each product’s location and directs pickers along the fastest route, which leads to reducing handling time and speeding up delivery.

What we do
We move more than cargo - we move businesses forward. With over 40 years of experience, we bring together deep industry expertise to deliver logistics solutions.
Who we are
Logistics that work, that's what we stand for. We believe in logistics without limits, and it fuels everything we do. Here's what drives us forward.
Get in touch
With 8 strategic locations, across Europe and in China, our experts are always within reach - ready to keep business moving. We're ready to move forward with you.
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