KLM Launches Direct Air Cargo Route from Beijing to Amsterdam

This article provides a detailed analysis of KLM's air freight palletization service from Beijing (PEK) to Amsterdam (AMS). It covers key information such as route network, flight details, and operational considerations. The aim is to offer a practical guide for freight forwarding companies and foreign trade businesses, helping them efficiently select air freight solutions and optimize logistics costs. The guide focuses on palletized cargo options from Beijing operated by KLM.
KLM Launches Direct Air Cargo Route from Beijing to Amsterdam

For businesses seeking efficient air freight solutions from Beijing to Europe, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines offers a direct cargo service from Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS). This dedicated freight route provides a gateway to European markets with reliable connectivity and streamlined operations.

About KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

As one of the world's oldest airlines, KLM (Royal Dutch Airlines) has built its reputation on operational reliability and service excellence. Part of the Air France-KLM Group, the carrier plays a significant role in global air cargo transportation. KLM's hub at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport serves as a critical junction in its worldwide network, while its membership in the SkyTeam alliance enables extensive interline partnerships for flexible onward connections.

PEK-AMS Direct Route and European Network

KLM's core offering from Beijing is the daily direct flight to Amsterdam, which serves as a springboard for European distribution. The route details:

  • Origin: Beijing (PEK)
  • Direct Route: PEK-AMS (daily service)

Through Amsterdam Schiphol, cargo can be efficiently transferred across Europe, divided into five service zones:

Zone 1: Major European Hubs

Amsterdam (AMS), Paris (CDG), Brussels (BRU), Frankfurt (FRA), London (LHR)

Zone 2: Regional European Cities

Antwerp (ANR), Bremen (BRE), Cologne (CGN), Düsseldorf (DUS), Dresden (DRS), Eindhoven (EIN), Enschede (ENS), Münster/Osnabrück (FMO), Groningen (GRQ), Hanover (HAJ), Hamburg (HAM), Frankfurt-Hahn (HHN), Leeds/Bradford (LBA), Leipzig (LEJ), Lille (LIL), Luxembourg (LUX), Lyon (LYS), Munich (MUC), Maastricht (MST), Nantes (NTE), Nuremberg (NUE), Rotterdam (RTM), Stuttgart (STR)

Zone 3: Secondary European Destinations

Aberdeen (ABZ), Barcelona (BCN), Belfast (BFS), Bilbao (BIO), Bordeaux (BOD), Bristol (BRS), Dublin (DUB), Edinburgh (EDI), Geneva (GVA), Madrid (MAD), Manchester (MAN), Marseille (MRS), Milan (MXP), Prague (PRG), Vienna (VIE), Zurich (ZRH)

Zone 4: Northern and Southern European Cities

Stockholm (ARN), Copenhagen (CPH), Rome (FCO), Helsinki (HEL), Lisbon (LIS), Oslo (OSL), Warsaw (WAW)

Zone 5: Eastern European Destinations

Sofia (SOF), Venice (VCE), Zagreb (ZAG)

Flight Specifications

  • Flight Number: KL898
  • Route: Beijing (PEK) - Amsterdam (AMS)
  • Frequency: Daily
  • Departure Time: 10:35 (PEK)
  • Arrival Time: 14:00 (AMS)
  • Aircraft Type: Boeing 787
  • Documentation Deadline: 22:00 prior to departure

Operational Considerations

Key operational details for KLM's dedicated cargo service:

Cost Structure

  • Security Surcharge: CNY 1.50/kg
  • Fuel Surcharge: CNY 14.00/kg
  • Documentation Fee (AWC): CNY 90 per shipment

Weight Calculation

The master air waybill doesn't display chargeable weight—actual weight is determined by BGS or Hongyuan warehouse measurements.

Cargo Specifications

Standard rates apply to general cargo only. Special commodities (dangerous goods, perishables, etc.) require customized quotations.

Booking Requirements

Accurate piece count and dimensions must be provided during booking, with less than 5% variance. Significant discrepancies may affect pricing and space allocation.

Transit Time

Standard service guarantees cargo departure within two flights after customs clearance. Specific flight requests require separate arrangements.

EU Shipments

EU-bound cargo incurs a house waybill processing fee (CNY 20 per HAWB), with amendments charged at CNY 125 per HAWB.

Additional Fees

  • CCA amendments: CNY 400
  • Lithium battery handling: CNY 100 per shipment

Service Advantages

  • Direct routing minimizes transit time and handling
  • Comprehensive European network through AMS hub
  • Dedicated cargo capacity reduces overbooking risks
  • Specialized cargo handling by experienced teams

Selecting Air Freight Solutions

When evaluating air cargo options, consider:

  • Commodity type: Special handling requirements (temperature control, hazardous materials protocols)
  • Transit urgency: Direct flights versus connecting services
  • Budget parameters: Carrier and route variations
  • Destination regulations: Customs clearance procedures

Shipping Process Overview

  1. Quotation and booking: Provide cargo specifications to obtain rates and secure space
  2. Document preparation: Commercial invoice, packing list, customs documentation
  3. Cargo delivery: Transport goods to designated warehouse for weighing and inspection
  4. Customs clearance: Arrange formalities through licensed brokers
  5. Flight departure: Cargo loading and aircraft departure
  6. Arrival processing: Goods receipt at destination airport
  7. Final clearance: Consignee completes import procedures

Frequently Asked Questions

What distinguishes KLM's dedicated cargo service?

The combination of direct routing, guaranteed capacity, and specialized handling ensures predictable transit times and secure transportation.

How can flight status be monitored?

Real-time tracking is available through KLM's official platforms or third-party flight monitoring services.

What recourse exists for transport incidents?

Claims for damaged or missing shipments should be filed through the handling freight forwarder or KLM's cargo division with supporting documentation.

Industry Outlook

As global trade volumes expand, air cargo demand continues to grow. KLM maintains its commitment to network optimization and service enhancement, while exploring technological advancements in flight scheduling and warehouse management to improve operational efficiency.