Vietnam Shipping Guide
Vietnam is one of China's key ASEAN trading partners. Sharing a border with China makes both sea and land transport highly convenient. Hai Phong serves the north while Ho Chi Minh City serves the south. RCEP tariff benefits are significant. Vietnam is a top destination for global manufacturing relocation, with many Chinese companies investing in factories, driving demand for raw materials and equipment imports.
Basic Information
Major Ports & Airports
Northern Vietnam's largest port, close to the Chinese border and the main sea freight channel to northern Vietnam.
Southern Vietnam's largest port complex handling about 60% of national container trade.
Hanoi international airport handling northern air cargo.
Customs & Clearance
Vietnam Customs uses the VNACCS/VCIS electronic system. RCEP and China-ASEAN FTA tariff preferences apply.
Required Documents
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading/Airway Bill
- Certificate of Origin (RCEP/ACFTA)
- Import Permit (regulated goods)
Restricted Items
- Some goods need import permits
- Food requires health inspection
- Chemicals have specific restrictions
- Used equipment imports are conditional
Customs Tips
RCEP and ACFTA preferences require valid CO. Vietnamese customs efficiency continues to improve. Both sea and land transport available — land is faster.
Logistics Services
- FCL
- LCL
- Road Transport
- Air Freight
- DDP Door-to-Door
Logistics Challenges
Infrastructure still developing; inland transport efficiency improving. North-south logistics differences exist. China-Vietnam land transport is a unique advantage.
Common Trade Goods
Exports from China
Imports from Country
Practical Tips
- 1Choose sea or land transport — land is faster
- 2Leverage RCEP/ACFTA tariff preferences fully
- 3Vietnam is a manufacturing relocation hotspot
- 4Note north-south market differences