Shipping costs can quickly eat into your profits, especially when importing from overseas. As Vietnam becomes a leading global supplier, more businesses are seeking ways to reduce expenses and improve efficiency. If you’re looking for cheap shipping from Vietnam to the US, the right strategy can save you thousands. From smarter sourcing to negotiating better freight terms, this guide shows you how to cut costs without compromising delivery or quality.
Let’s get started.
Quick Summary
- Use freight consolidation (LCL) for small shipments
- Get volume discounts by working with a trusted freight forwarder
- Compare rates via shipping platforms like Easyship or Alibaba Logistics
- Reduce volumetric charges with smart packaging techniques
- Avoid overpaying by negotiating with suppliers and forwarders
- Cut costs further by using Vietnam-based fulfillment centers
Freight Consolidation: A Top Method for Cost-Effective Shipping
Shipping small loads? Don’t pay for empty space.
LCL (Less than Container Load) lets you:
- Share container space with others
- Split costs based on your cargo’s volume
- Avoid paying for a full container when you don’t need it
This method is ideal for small businesses, test orders, or startups scaling up gradually.
Quick Tip: Work with freight forwarders that specialize in LCL services and offer door-to-door options.
Work With Freight Forwarders Who Offer Volume Discounts
Freight forwarders in Vietnam often negotiate bulk shipping rates with carriers. By partnering with them, you can:
- Tap into lower per-unit shipping costs
- Get help with customs, documentation, and tracking
- Avoid delays or miscommunication with logistics providers
Look for forwarders with proven experience in the US trade lane, such as Vietrans, TSL Logistics, or DB Schenker Vietnam.
Use VALO Vietnam to Compare and Book the Cheapest Shipping
If you’re serious about reducing your total cost when importing from Vietnam, start at the source, the supplier relationship. That’s exactly where VALO Vietnam delivers unmatched value.
What is VALO Vietnam?
VALO Vietnam is a direct matchmaking and communication platform that connects Vietnamese suppliers with international buyers, especially those looking to import at the best possible price.
Unlike traditional sourcing platforms, VALO:
- Does not charge buyers any fees
- Enables real-time communication and price negotiation between both parties
- Only charges a one-time listing fee to suppliers, keeping costs transparent and fair
- Encourages suppliers to offer exclusive discounts to buyers who come through the platform
- Helps build long-term, trusted partnerships for recurring business
How This Helps You Save on Shipping
While VALO doesn’t provide shipping services directly, it contributes to lower overall shipping costs in several key ways:
- Lower product prices = lower declared value for customs duties
- Direct negotiations = better Incoterms (like FOB or EXW) to control your shipping choices
- Transparent supplier communication lets you coordinate on packaging, bundling, and freight forwarding more efficiently
In short, VALO helps you reduce your total landed cost, not just the shipping bill, but the full supply chain expense from factory to doorstep.
Smart Packaging: Cut Shipping Costs Before You Even Ship
One of the most overlooked money-saving tactics is proper packaging.
Here’s how to package smart:
- Use space-efficient designs (flat-pack when possible)
- Avoid heavy materials that trigger volumetric charges
- Group similar items to reduce total package count
- Ensure all labels, barcodes, and documents are pre-applied to avoid rework fees
Pro Tip: Carriers often charge based on size more than weight, so trim those boxes!
Avoid Hidden Costs: What Most Businesses Miss
Here are the common cost traps you should steer clear of:
- Letting your supplier choose the shipping method: they may prioritize ease over cost.
- Not understanding Incoterms: this leads to surprise charges at customs or delivery.
- Skipping customs preparation: wrong HS codes or missing documents can lead to delays and fines.
- Overlooking local delivery fees: the “last mile” inside the U.S. can be expensive if not factored in.
Solution: Always ask for all-in quotes, use DDP terms if available, and clarify every fee upfront.
Vietnam-Based Fulfillment: The Ultimate Secret Weapon
If you sell online (Shopify, Amazon, etc.), consider outsourcing fulfillment to Vietnam.
Benefits include:
- Storing goods close to the source saves on warehouse costs
- You can ship out to the US in bulk, then fulfill per order
- Lower labor costs for picking, packing, and processing
- Avoid expensive U.S. warehouse or 3PL fees
This model is gaining popularity with eCommerce brands that want to stay lean and cost-efficient.
Other Tips for Reducing Shipping Costs Immediately
- Always compare at least 3 freight quotes
- Negotiate with your supplier for better Incoterms (FOB or EXW are best for control)
- Group shipments with nearby buyers if you’re importing the same category
- Avoid peak seasons (like Chinese New Year and Black Friday) to get better rates
- Build long-term relationships with forwarders — loyalty often leads to better pricing
Unlock Real Savings with Smarter Vietnam-to-US Shipping
When it comes to cheap shipping from Vietnam to the US, success starts long before your goods hit the port. The real savings come from how you negotiate with suppliers, how you manage freight, and how well you understand the true cost of international trade.
By using platforms like VALO Vietnam, you can connect directly with verified suppliers, negotiate product prices without middlemen, and secure better shipping terms, all without paying any buyer fees. Combine that with smart freight choices, efficient packaging, and trusted forwarding partners, and you’re on your way to significant cost reductions on every shipment.
Ready to cut costs at the source?
Visit VALO Vietnam to start connecting with top-rated Vietnamese suppliers and unlock exclusive pricing, no commissions, no hidden charges, just smarter sourcing.
- Call us 24/7: +84 79 928 7929
- Email: alo@valovietnam.com
FAQ: Common Questions About Why Vietnam Is So Cheap
- What’s the absolute cheapest way to ship from Vietnam to the US?
Sea freight via LCL (Less than Container Load) is usually the most affordable for non-urgent orders.
- Can I save money by using my supplier’s shipper?
Sometimes, but it’s usually cheaper to book your own freight through a platform or forwarder.
- How do I avoid surprise fees?
Always get full DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) quotes when possible, and review all terms before booking.
- What’s the benefit of working with a freight forwarder?
They give you access to bulk rates, handle paperwork, and reduce your risk of customs delays.
- Is using a fulfillment center in Vietnam really cheaper?
Yes. For high-volume sellers, it reduces storage and handling costs, and allows for cheaper bulk shipping to the US.
- How often should I review shipping rates?
Every quarter, especially if your volume changes or you’re scaling, rates fluctuate often.