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SHIPPING FROM CHINA TO VIETNAM
Tonlexing is a leading provider of international logistics services, offering a comprehensive range of freight forwarding solutions tailored to meet your shipping needs across Vietnam. With a well-established network covering key ports such as Haiphong and Ho Chi Minh City, we are equipped to deliver economical, affordable, and reliable logistics plans. Our high-quality services extend beyond just importing and shipping from China to Vietnam; we also handle pick-up, documentation, packaging, loading, unloading, customs clearance, warehousing, consolidation, and more.
SHIPPING FROM CHINA TO VIETNAM
At Tonlexing, we are dedicated to ensuring that your shipments to Haiphong, Ho Chi Minh City, and other locations in Vietnam are managed with the highest level of efficiency and care. We provide you with the best, most cost-effective, and trustworthy services, ensuring that your cargo reaches its destination without any inconvenience or risks. Transparency is our priority, and we keep you fully informed of all necessary terms and regulations right from the start, guaranteeing a smooth and transparent shipping process.
For an accurate and tailored freight quote from China to Vietnam, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Provide us with the details of your shipment, and our experienced team will promptly offer you a competitive quotation based on your specific cargo needs.
Table of Contents
Shipping from China to Vietnam: Complete Guide for Sea Freight, Air Freight, and Rail Transport
With Vietnam’s rapidly growing economy and strategic location, shipping between China and Vietnam has become essential for businesses looking to capitalize on cross-border trade. This comprehensive guide explores the main shipping options—sea freight, air freight, and rail transport—providing valuable insights into transit times, costs, and processes. Whether you’re importing electronics, textiles, or machinery, selecting the right shipping method can help optimize costs and improve delivery timelines.
China’s extensive logistics infrastructure and Vietnam’s increasing demand for imported goods have strengthened the trade routes between the two countries. Each transport method offers unique advantages: sea freight is ideal for large-volume, cost-sensitive shipments; air freight ensures rapid delivery for high-value goods; and rail transport provides an efficient middle ground, balancing speed and cost. By understanding these options, you can make informed decisions that support your business’s growth and efficiency.
Sea Freight from China to Vietnam
Sea freight is by far the most cost-effective solution for businesses shipping large volumes or bulky items between China and Vietnam, particularly for goods that aren’t time-sensitive. This method is therefore commonly used in industries such as manufacturing, textiles, and machinery, where cost efficiency is crucial. Furthermore, with well-established sea routes and frequent sailings from key Chinese ports like Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Ningbo to major Vietnamese ports, sea freight offers a reliable and affordable means of transportation.
Thanks to Vietnam’s expanding port infrastructure, including Hai Phong, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, businesses can access flexible and efficient cargo handling and distribution. Although the transit times are longer than other options, sea freight allows companies to maximize shipping volumes and reduce overall costs, making it ideal for bulk goods. By selecting the right port of origin in China, businesses can further optimize costs and transit times based on their supplier locations and inventory schedules.
Key Ports for Sea Freight from China to Vietnam
Selecting the right ports is crucial for efficient sea freight shipping between China and Vietnam. Major ports in both countries are well-equipped to handle a high volume of shipments, ensuring a smooth logistics process.
Key Departure Ports in China
- Shanghai Port – One of the busiest ports globally, ideal for handling large exports.
- Shenzhen Port – A primary gateway for goods from southern China.
- Ningbo-Zhoushan Port – Known for its capacity and efficiency in eastern China.
- Guangzhou Port – A key port in southern China, supporting diverse industries.
- Qingdao Port – A major port for northern China, catering to various export needs.
Primary Arrival Ports in Vietnam
- Hai Phong Port – Serving northern Vietnam, close to Hanoi, and well-suited for containerized cargo.
- Ho Chi Minh City Port (Cat Lai) – The largest port in Vietnam, supporting southern Vietnam’s trade.
- Da Nang Port – Central Vietnam’s primary port, ideal for smaller and regional shipments.
How Long is Sea Freight from China to Vietnam?
The typical transit time for sea freight from China to Vietnam ranges from 3 to 10 days, depending on the port of origin and destination.
| Port of Origin | Destination Port | Estimated Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | Hai Phong | 5-7 days |
| Shenzhen | Ho Chi Minh City | 3-5 days |
| Ningbo | Da Nang | 7-10 days |
How Much Does Sea Freight from China to Vietnam Cost?
Sea freight costs depend on the shipment’s volume and container type. Here’s an estimate for standard 20ft and 40ft containers:
| Port of Origin | Destination Port | 20ft Container | 40ft Container |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | Hai Phong | $200 | $400 |
| Shanghai | Ho Chi Minh City (Cat Lai) | $210 | $410 |
| Shanghai | Da Nang | $220 | $420 |
| Shenzhen | Hai Phong | $180 | $370 |
| Shenzhen | Ho Chi Minh City (Cat Lai) | $190 | $380 |
| Shenzhen | Da Nang | $195 | $390 |
| Ningbo | Hai Phong | $220 | $420 |
| Ningbo | Ho Chi Minh City (Cat Lai) | $230 | $430 |
| Ningbo | Da Nang | $235 | $440 |
| Guangzhou | Hai Phong | $185 | $375 |
| Guangzhou | Ho Chi Minh City (Cat Lai) | $195 | $385 |
| Guangzhou | Da Nang | $200 | $390 |
| Qingdao | Hai Phong | $210 | $410 |
| Qingdao | Ho Chi Minh City (Cat Lai) | $220 | $420 |
| Qingdao | Da Nang | $225 | $425 |
Sea Freight from China to Vietnam: Operation Procedure
Booking and Cargo Pickup
Confirm shipment details and book space with a carrier. The logistics provider then arranges for the pickup of goods from the supplier’s location in China.Loading and Export Customs Clearance in China
Transport the goods to the departure port (e.g., Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo). At the port, the cargo is loaded into containers, and the necessary export documents (such as the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading) are submitted for customs clearance.Sea Transit to Vietnam
Once cleared and loaded, the goods are shipped from China to Vietnam. Transit time varies, typically taking 3 to 10 days depending on the port and route.Arrival and Import Customs Clearance in Vietnam
Upon arrival at a major Vietnamese port (e.g., Hai Phong, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang), the logistics provider submits import documents to Vietnamese customs. Duties and taxes are paid to clear the goods.Final Delivery
After customs clearance, the goods are either picked up by the consignee or delivered directly to the specified address in Vietnam, completing the sea freight process.
Air Freight from China to Vietnam
Air freight is the fastest and most reliable option for shipping goods from China to Vietnam, making it ideal for time-sensitive and high-value products like electronics, medical supplies, and luxury items. With frequent flights connecting major Chinese and Vietnamese cities, air freight ensures quick delivery, typically within 1 to 3 days, depending on the route and any layovers.
For businesses that prioritize speed and security, air freight offers a dependable solution to meet demand. Major Chinese airports, including Shanghai Pudong, Guangzhou Baiyun, and Shenzhen Bao’an, provide regular flights to Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi and Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, simplifying logistics and enabling seamless cross-border trade between China and Vietnam.
Main Airports for Air Freight from China to Vietnam:
Key Departure Airports in China:
- Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) – A major global air freight hub with frequent flights to Vietnam.
- Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) – Handles significant cargo volume, especially for southern China exports.
- Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX) – A rapidly growing hub, ideal for shipments from Guangdong Province.
- Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) – Key for northern China exports, with efficient connections to Vietnam.
- Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) – Known for its extensive cargo network, particularly useful for high-value items.
Primary Arrival Airports in Vietnam:
- Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) – Located in Hanoi, serving northern Vietnam and the capital city.
- Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) – The main airport in Ho Chi Minh City, ideal for cargo to southern Vietnam.
How Long is Air Freight from China to Vietnam?
Air freight transit times between China and Vietnam are usually 1 to 3 days, depending on the flight route. Major Chinese airports like Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN), and Shenzhen Bao’an (SZX) have frequent connections to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi and Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City.
| Departure Airport | Arrival Airport | Estimated Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai (PVG) | Ho Chi Minh (SGN) | 1-2 days |
| Guangzhou (CAN) | Hanoi (HAN) | 1-3 days |
| Shenzhen (SZX) | Ho Chi Minh (SGN) | 1-2 days |
How Much Does Air Freight from China to Vietnam Cost?
Air freight costs are calculated based on weight and volume. Here’s an estimate of per kg costs:
| Departure Airport | Arrival Airport | Cost per kg |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai (PVG) | Ho Chi Minh (SGN) | $2 – $3 |
| Guangzhou (CAN) | Hanoi (HAN) | $2 – $3 |
| Shenzhen (SZX) | Ho Chi Minh (SGN) | $2 – $3 |
Air Freight from China to Vietnam: Operation Procedure
Booking and Cargo Pickup
Confirm flight schedules and book space with an airline. The logistics provider arranges for the pickup of goods from the supplier’s location in China.Export Customs Clearance in China
The goods are transported to the departure airport (e.g., Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN), Shenzhen Bao’an (SZX)). Required export documents, such as the commercial invoice, packing list, and airway bill, are submitted for customs clearance in China.Flight Transit to Vietnam
The cargo is loaded onto the aircraft and transported to Vietnam. Air transit typically takes 1 to 3 days, depending on the flight route and any layovers.Arrival and Import Customs Clearance in Vietnam
Upon arrival at a Vietnamese airport (e.g., Noi Bai (HAN) in Hanoi or Tan Son Nhat (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City), the logistics provider handles customs clearance, submitting the necessary documents and paying any duties or taxes.Final Delivery
After customs clearance, the goods are delivered to the consignee’s location or warehouse in Vietnam, completing the air freight process.
Rail Transport from China to Vietnam
As an increasingly popular option for shipping goods from China to Vietnam, rail transport offers a balance between cost and speed. Faster than sea freight and significantly more affordable than air freight, it’s ideal for industries needing efficient transit times without high costs. Commonly shipped products by rail include electronics, machinery parts, and textiles. Well-established routes link major Chinese cities like Kunming and Nanning to Vietnamese hubs such as Hanoi, supporting seamless cross-border trade for businesses seeking reliable, mid-range transit times.
Main Stations for Rail Transport from China to Vietnam:
Key Departure Stations in China:
- Kunming Station – Located in Yunnan Province, Kunming serves as a major gateway for rail transport to Vietnam due to its proximity to the border.
- Nanning Station – Positioned in Guangxi Province, Nanning is a critical rail hub with established routes for cross-border shipments to Vietnam.
- Chengdu Station – Located in Sichuan Province, Chengdu is a key starting point for rail shipments traveling through southern China en route to Vietnam.
- Chongqing Station – Often used for industrial goods, Chongqing provides efficient rail links to Vietnam.
Main Arrival Station in Vietnam:
- Dong Dang Station – Located near the China-Vietnam border, this station connects with China’s Guangxi Province and is a primary entry point for rail shipments into northern Vietnam.
- Hanoi Station – Positioned in Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi Station serves as a central rail hub, distributing cargo throughout Vietnam after arriving from China.
How Long is Rail Transport from China to Vietnam?
Rail transport typically takes 5 to 7 days from China to northern Vietnam. The primary rail routes connect major Chinese cities with Vietnamese cities like Hanoi.
| Departure City | Arrival City | Estimated Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
| Kunming | Hanoi | 5-6 days |
| Nanning | Hanoi | 6-7 days |
| Chengdu | Hanoi | 7 days |
How Much Does Rail Transport from China to Vietnam Cost?
Rail costs are based on the shipment’s size and weight. Here’s an estimate for rail freight:
| Route | Cost per CBM |
|---|---|
| Kunming to Hanoi | $150 – $200 |
| Nanning to Hanoi | $140 – $190 |
| Chengdu to Hanoi | $160 – $210 |
Rail Transport from China to Vietnam: Operation Procedure
Booking and Cargo Pickup
Confirm the shipment details and book space with a rail service provider. The logistics provider arranges the pickup of goods from the supplier’s location in China.Loading and Export Customs Clearance in China
Transport the goods to the departure rail station (e.g., Kunming Station or Nanning Station). At the station, the cargo is loaded into rail containers. Export documents, such as the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading, are submitted for customs clearance.Rail Transit to Vietnam
Once cleared, the cargo departs by rail from China, passing through the border into Vietnam. Transit time typically takes 5 to 7 days, depending on the route and specific stations.Arrival and Import Customs Clearance in Vietnam
Upon arrival at Dong Dang Station or Hanoi Station, the logistics provider submits necessary import documents to Vietnamese customs. Duties and taxes are paid to clear the goods for entry.Final Delivery
After customs clearance, the goods are then either collected by the consignee or, alternatively, delivered directly to their address in Vietnam, thus completing the rail transport process.
Customs Clearance and Duties for Imports from China to Vietnam
When importing goods from China to Vietnam, it’s essential to understand the customs clearance process and applicable import duties. To ensure a smooth experience, having all necessary documentation in place is crucial, as it can help prevent delays and avoid additional costs. Moreover, staying informed about the specific requirements will streamline the process, making shipments more efficient from start to finish.
Customs Clearance Process
Document Submission
The importer or customs broker submits the required documents to Vietnamese customs, which typically include:- Commercial Invoice: Details the value and nature of the goods.
- Packing List: Describes the contents, weight, and volume of the shipment.
- Bill of Lading or Railway Bill: Proof of shipment by rail.
- Import Permit: Required for certain controlled or restricted items.
Customs Declaration
The customs broker files a customs declaration in the Vietnam Automated Cargo and Port Consolidated System (VNACCS), including the HS codes and detailed description of goods, allowing customs to calculate duties and taxes.Customs Inspection
Vietnamese customs may conduct an inspection of the goods to verify that the shipment details match the declaration.
Import Duties and Taxes
Import Duty
Vietnam applies an import duty on most goods based on the product’s HS code and value. The import duty rate varies depending on the item type and its tariff classification. Typical import duty rates range from 0% to 30%, depending on the product category.Value-Added Tax (VAT)
In addition to import duties, a Value-Added Tax (VAT) is applied to imported goods, generally set at 10%. Some goods may qualify for reduced rates or exemptions depending on their classification.
Example Calculation
For a shipment valued at $10,000 (CIF), with an import duty rate of 10% and a VAT of 10%, the import costs are calculated as follows:
- Import Duty: $10,000 × 10% = $1,000
- VAT: ($10,000 + $1,000) × 10% = $1,100
So, the total duties and taxes would be $2,100.
Shipping from China to Vietnam offers several options, each suited to different needs. Sea freight is ideal for large volumes at an affordable cost, while air freight ensures quick delivery for high-value or time-sensitive goods. Rail transport provides a middle ground, balancing cost and speed, making it a flexible choice for various industries. By choosing the right shipping method, understanding customs processes, and being aware of costs, businesses can effectively streamline their logistics and optimize their supply chain.
At Tonlexing Logistics, we specialize in providing reliable, efficient, and tailored shipping solutions from China to Vietnam. Whether you need sea, air, or rail freight services, our experienced team is here to support your logistics needs every step of the way. For more information or a customized shipping quote, feel free to reach out to us.
FAQs About Shipping from China to Vietnam
Sea freight transit times typically range from 3 to 10 days, depending on the departure and arrival ports.
Air freight costs between China and Vietnam vary based on weight, volume, and route, typically ranging from $2 to $3 per kg.
Required documents generally include the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or airway bill, and, for certain goods, an import permit.
Yes, Vietnam imposes import duties and VAT on most imported goods. Duty rates vary by product type, and VAT is generally set at 10%.
Yes, door-to-door services are available, covering everything from pickup in China to final delivery in Vietnam, making the process hassle-free for the importer.
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