Vietnam continues to gain momentum as a global manufacturing hub, offering competitive production costs, skilled labor, and expanding export infrastructure. As U.S. companies look to diversify their supply chains, shipping from Vietnam to the US has become a critical part of their import strategy.
Whether you’re sourcing furniture, apparel, electronics, or other wholesale goods, understanding the logistics behind how to ship from Vietnam to the USA is essential. From choosing a shipping method to estimating costs and planning delivery timelines, the process can feel complex, especially for first-time importers.
If you’re new to Vietnam sourcing, remember that everything starts with finding the right manufacturer. Working with verified suppliers in Vietnam gives you a foundation for smooth and efficient shipping later on.
What Are Your Shipping Options from Vietnam to the US?
There are two primary ways to ship goods from Vietnam to the United States: by air or by sea. The best method for your business depends on your product type, order size, budget, and timeline.
- Air shipping is commonly used for smaller, high-value, or urgent shipments.
- Ocean freight is typically the most economical choice for large-volume orders and bulk goods.
Each method has its own cost structure, speed, and handling requirements. While we won’t go deep into the differences here, it’s important to choose a method that aligns with both your product needs and delivery expectations.
Regardless of the option you choose, working with reliable freight partners and understanding key shipping milestones will help you stay on schedule and on budget.
Average Shipping Costs from Vietnam to the USA
Shipping costs from Vietnam to the U.S. vary widely based on several factors. To plan effectively, importers should understand what drives these costs and how to estimate them in advance.
Key Factors That Affect Shipping Price:
- Cargo weight and volume
- Type of shipment (air or ocean)
- Destination port or airport in the U.S.
- Additional services like customs handling, warehousing, or insurance
- Seasonality (peak seasons may increase rates)
Sample Pricing Ranges:
While exact numbers fluctuate based on market conditions, here’s a general idea:
- Air shipping for small parcels: starts around $5–$8/kg
- Ocean freight (FCL) for a 20-ft container: $1,200–$2,500
- LCL shipments may cost $30–$60 per cubic meter, plus handling fees
Using a Vietnam to US shipping cost calculator or requesting quotes from freight forwarders will give you the most accurate pricing.
Shipping Timelines: How Long Does It Take?
Knowing your expected delivery window is key to avoiding delays in your supply chain. Shipping lead time from Vietnam to the USA depends heavily on the method of transportation and the final destination.
General Timeframes:
- Air shipping: typically 3–7 days from departure to arrival
- Sea shipping (FCL or LCL): averages 25–40 days, depending on the route and U.S. port
Keep in mind that these timeframes don’t always account for customs clearance, port handling, or inland delivery, all of which can add a few extra days.
To stay on track, plan ahead for peak seasons (like pre-holiday or post-Lunar New Year), and consider working with experienced logistics partners who can monitor and adjust timelines when needed.
Required Documents for Shipping from Vietnam to the US
To ensure smooth and timely customs clearance from Vietnam to the USA, it’s essential to prepare and submit all necessary export documents. Incomplete or incorrect paperwork is one of the most common causes of shipping delays, so understanding these basics is a must.
1. Commercial Invoice
This is the primary document used for Vietnam export compliance. It outlines the buyer and seller information, product description, HS code, quantity, unit price, and total value of the shipment. U.S. Customs uses the commercial invoice for Vietnam exports to assess import duties.
2. Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB)
A bill of lading for Vietnam shipping acts as both a receipt and a contract of carriage between the exporter and the carrier. It’s issued for sea freight. For air shipments, this document is called an air waybill. Both are required for goods to be released upon arrival in the U.S.
3. Packing List
This outlines all items included in the shipment, detailing quantities, packaging types, weights, and dimensions. It complements the commercial invoice and helps during customs inspection and cargo verification.
4. Certificate of Origin (if applicable)
This document verifies the country in which the goods were manufactured. It may be required for certain products to benefit from trade agreements or reduced tariffs under the U.S.–Vietnam Trade Agreement.
5. Customs Documentation
Depending on the product category and shipment size, additional documents may include import licenses, fumigation certificates, or special permits. Always check with your freight forwarder or customs broker to ensure compliance with both Vietnamese and U.S. import rules.
Vietnam to USA Customs Duties and Import Taxes
Before your shipment leaves port, you need a clear understanding of the duties, tariffs, and taxes that will be applied once it arrives in the U.S. These costs are calculated by U.S. Customs based on several factors, and failing to account for them can cause delays or unexpected expenses.
Import Duties and Customs Fees
The U.S. assesses import duties on goods from Vietnam based on the product’s declared value, shipping method, and classification. Some goods may also be subject to excise taxes or anti-dumping duties. Make sure to include these potential charges in your total shipping budget.
Using HS Codes for Classification
Every product imported to the U.S. must be categorized under a Harmonized System (HS) code. These codes determine the duty rate applied. Incorrect HS codes are a leading cause of customs issues, so work with an expert if you’re unsure.
Certificates and Trade Agreements
Some items may qualify for preferential duty rates under agreements like the U.S.–Vietnam Bilateral Trade Agreement. To benefit, you’ll need proper documentation, such as a valid certificate of origin.
Working with a Customs Broker
Hiring a licensed customs broker can simplify this process. They’ll help ensure your shipment complies with Vietnam export compliance and U.S. import laws, file necessary documents, and avoid costly errors.
Choosing the Right Freight Forwarder for Vietnam to US Shipping
A freight forwarder is your logistics partner, helping move your goods from your Vietnamese supplier to your U.S. destination. They coordinate everything from pickup and documentation to customs clearance and final delivery, making them a critical part of any successful international shipment.
Why Use a Freight Forwarder?
Shipping internationally involves many moving parts. A good forwarder helps you:
- Navigate customs regulations
- Choose the right shipping method (air or sea)
- Prepare documents and manage cargo insurance
- Coordinate door-to-door or port-to-port logistics
Whether you’re shipping small batches or full containers, a freight forwarder from Vietnam to the USA brings expertise and peace of mind.
How to Choose a Reliable Partner
- Look for experience in Vietnam–U.S. shipping routes
- Verify certifications and licenses (especially for international freight forwarders)
- Ask about their local partnerships in Vietnam and delivery capabilities in the U.S.
- Read reviews and ask for client references
Key Questions to Ask Before Booking
- Do you handle both air freight and sea freight?
- What’s included in your quote and what’s not?
- Can you help with customs clearance in both countries?
- How do you track and communicate shipment status?
Booking the right freight partner is just as important as choosing the right supplier. It ensures a smoother, faster, and more cost-effective shipping experience.
Common Challenges When Shipping from Vietnam to the US (And How to Avoid Them)
While Vietnam is a reliable export hub, shipping internationally still presents challenges, especially if you’re new to the process. Below are some of the common problems in Vietnam to US shipping and how to prevent them.
1. Delays During Customs Clearance
One of the most frequent issues importers face is hold-ups at customs. These can occur due to incomplete documentation, incorrect HS codes, or missing certificates.
How to avoid it:
- Double-check all documents before shipment (commercial invoice, bill of lading, certificate of origin)
- Work with a licensed customs broker familiar with Vietnam shipping regulations for the USA
- Ensure your supplier provides all necessary paperwork on time
2. Poor Packaging and Damaged Goods
Long transit times and multiple handling stages mean your goods need to be packaged properly. Inadequate packaging leads to product damage, rejected shipments, and financial losses.
How to avoid it:
- Specify export-grade packaging standards with your supplier
- Consider third-party inspection before shipment
- Use moisture-resistant or reinforced materials, especially for sea freight
3. Choosing the Wrong Incoterms
Incoterms (like FOB or CIF) define responsibilities between buyers and sellers. Choosing the wrong one can shift unexpected costs or risks to you.
How to avoid it:
- Understand Incoterms before agreeing to them
- Consult with a freight forwarder to select the best option based on your shipment type and risk tolerance
- Clearly outline terms in your purchase contract
Learning from these mistakes to avoid when shipping from Vietnam can save you time, money, and operational headaches and ensure your supply chain runs smoothly from origin to destination.
How Platforms Like VALO Vietnam Simplify Sourcing and Shipping Processes
While freight and customs may seem like the biggest shipping hurdles, the foundation of a successful shipment starts with choosing the right supplier. And that’s exactly where platforms like VALO Vietnam can help.
Verified Suppliers Reduce Risk
VALO connects buyers with verified suppliers in Vietnam, each background-checked for legal status, certifications, and product quality. Working with trustworthy manufacturers means fewer errors, better packaging standards, and more reliable documentation, all of which impact shipping success.
Transparent Communication from the Start
Unlike traditional sourcing agents, VALO enables direct communication between buyers and manufacturers. That means you can clarify Incoterms, request compliant packaging, and coordinate shipping preferences without confusion or miscommunication.
Sourcing-Ready for Shipping Success
By streamlining the supplier discovery process, VALO sets you up for success in the next stage, logistics. When you start with the right partner, you’re less likely to face issues like incomplete paperwork, mislabeling, or non-compliant exports.
While VALO doesn’t handle logistics or freight bookings, we empower you with the supplier foundation needed to make shipping from Vietnam to the US easier, faster, and more reliable.
Start Your Vietnam to US Shipping Journey with Confidence
Shipping from Vietnam to the United States can open huge opportunities for businesses, but it requires careful planning, reliable suppliers, and a solid understanding of logistics. From selecting the right shipping method and preparing proper documents to navigating customs and avoiding common mistakes, every step matters for a smooth delivery.
Partnering with trusted manufacturers is the first and most important move toward successful shipping. Platforms like VALO Vietnam make it easier by connecting you directly with verified suppliers in Vietnam, helping you avoid delays, improve communication, and set your business up for long-term success.
Ready to simplify your sourcing and shipping journey?
Contact VALO Vietnam today and find the right suppliers to power your growth.