Rotterdam
Rotterdam, Netherlands
Photograph: Rotterdam. Igor Passchier / Pexels.
About Rotterdam
Rotterdam is the largest port in Europe and the shortest deep-sea crossing we quote. Its Maasvlakte terminals sit on reclaimed land at the seaward end of the complex, which gives direct access without a river transit for the largest vessels. What makes it useful beyond the Netherlands is its hinterland: barge and rail services run deep into Germany, Belgium and Switzerland, so it frequently serves as the gateway for cargo whose final destination is nowhere near Rotterdam.
First Base Freight handles both import and export cargo through Rotterdam — inbound from any country and outbound to any country. Indicative sea transit on our the UK lane is 3–6 days; transit on any other routing is confirmed at quote stage. For rates, container options and the wider Netherlands lane, including air freight and customs clearance, see the country page — or request a quote for this port.
Port information
Reference details for Rotterdam, which we serve for both imports and exports. The transit figure is indicative, measured on our the UK lane, and confirmed at booking — other routings are quoted individually.
- City
- Rotterdam
- Country
- Netherlands
- Port code (UN/LOCODE)
- NLRTM
- Port type
- Container terminal
- Indicative sea transit
- 3–6 days
What to know about Rotterdam
- Largest port in Europe by container volume
- Maasvlakte terminals give direct sea access without a river transit
- Barge and rail hinterland reaching Germany, Belgium and Switzerland
- Short crossing means documentation, not the sailing, sets the timeline
Moving cargo through Rotterdam? Get a quote.
Any country to any country, import or export — send us the origin, destination and cargo details and we'll come back with a competitive rate within one business day.