Shipping from China to Vietnam

Shipping Time from China to Vietnam

Port of Loading	Port of Arrive	Transmit Time
Shanghai	Ho Chi Minh	6
	Haiphong	4
Shenzhen	Ho Chi Minh	3
	Haiphong	2
Ningbo	Ho Chi Minh	7
	Haiphong	8
Qingdao	Ho Chi Minh	8
	Haiphong	6
Tianjin	Ho Chi Minh	10
	Haiphong	8
Xiamen	Ho Chi Minh	7
	Haiphong	4

Shipping from China to Vietnam: The Complete Guide

Are you importing goods from China to sell in Vietnam?

And, do you have any challenges shipping from China to Vietnam?

If yes, then you should read this guide to the end.

Because I am going to cover everything you should know about shipping from China to Vietnam.

From goods to import, Vietnam customs, shipping cost, Incoterms, Vietnam taxes, and duties; just to mention a few.

By the end of this guide, you will be an expert in this field.

Chapter 1: JMS Freight Shipping from China to Vietnam

Let me tell you one basic fact:

Shipping from China to Vietnam requires the services of a reliable freight forwarder. And, that’s exactly what JMS does.

With over ten years of experience, we tailor our services with you in mind.

These include providing you with free warehousing services for up to 30 days.

Therefore, you’ll have enough time to pack or label your imports from China.

Of course, our team will help you with every stage here.

We also provide pick-up and delivery of your cargo, thereby making importing from China to Vietnam a seamless process.

Furthermore, we offer cargo insurance and customs clearance.

It ensures you get your imports from China faster with minimal risk.

With our FCL shipping from China to Vietnam or LCL shipping from China to Vietnam, you will get all your imports in time.

It’s alongside our integrated transportation system that gives you the opportunity to ship cargo to different destinations.

And by the way, you don’t worry about the shipping containers.

At JMS, we allow you to use our containers for 28 days.

Even if you cannot afford the sea freight from China to Vietnam or ocean freight from China to Vietnam, JMS provides truck services too.

You can use truck from China to Vietnam.

What’s more?

You don’t have to worry about the paperwork or documentation.

JMS offers door to door shipping from China to Vietnam.

You know what?

JMS cares about your import business.

That’s why we provide competitive shipping from China to Vietnam.

Now, what exactly can you import from Vietnam?

Chapter 2: Goods to Import from China to Vietnam

You must know the kind of goods you want to import.

It is one of the most important stages when doing any international business.

In this chapter, I will explain to you which types of goods you cannot import to Vietnam.

Also, I will show you which types of goods you can easily to Vietnam from China.

And, by the way, Vietnam also restricts some goods.

There are goods you can import but must undergo further scrutiny at the Vietnam custom points.

Read along to understand the details.

2.1. Top Imports from China to Vietnam

Vietnam relies heavily on China for its imports.

It is due to the proximity between China and Vietnam.

But what are these imported goods?

Vietnam customs authorities

Below are some of the main products you can import from China to Vietnam:

• Electronic equipment
• Machines, engines, and pumps
• Steel and iron
• Oil
• Plastics
• Human-made staple fibers
• Fabric
• Cotton
• Fertilizer
• Steel or iron products

Here is another category of emerging imports to Vietnam from China that you may be interested in.

• Meat and fish
• Alcoholic beverages
• Umbrellas and walking sticks
• Plaiting products
• Books, newspapers, and pictures
• Headgears

2.2. Vietnam Customs Restrictions – Don’t Import these Goods into Vietnam

Even though you may want to import certain products, Vietnam authorities may not allow them to pass through the various border points.

That is, you may import them, andVietnam custom authorities may seize your goods.

It is therefore important for you to understand which goods you cannot import to Vietnam.

Let’s have a look at these goods.

A decree from the Vietnam government No. 12/2006/ND-CP (2006) importing the following goods for commercial purposes is prohibited:

In the category of vehicles, you cannot import:

• Used spare parts for vehicle
• Right-hand drive vehicles.
• Used internal combustion engines of less than 30 horsepower
• Military weapons, including ammunition and arms
• Firecrackers are not allowed
• Second-hand consumer goods such as clothes, household appliances, machinery, etc.
• Encryption or decryption devices

The only explosives materials you can import are the industrial ones as other types are prohibited.

But, that’s not all.

Asbestos materials that fall under the amphibole group, as well as toxic chemicals listed under international treaties, are not allowed.

Also included here are refrigeration equipment that uses chlorofluorocarbons.

Don’t think of importing narcotics from China to Vietnam.

Vietnam custom authorities will arrest you.

Now that you have an idea of what goods you cannot import to Vietnam from China let’s understand what it takes to start the importation business.

Let me give you a heads-up:

If you have a company, there is no need for an import license to start importing.

It is because the certificate that you received during registration of your company allows you to import.

But you will need to register with the department of planning and investment if you are a foreigner.

Vietnam Ministry Planning and Investment

Also, to start importing as a foreigner, you will be required to have an investment certificate.

But that’s not all as a foreigner.

You will not be allowed to import the following goods;

• Aircraft
• Petroleum oil
• Newspapers and journals
• Tobacco and cigars

If you have a company that would like to expand its operations into the importation, you will be required to follow procedures.

These procedures are meant to adjust the company’s investment certificates.

Further resources:

• Vietnam Prohibited and Restricted Goods
• List of Good Prohibited from Export or Import in Vietnam
• Details for Prohibited for Import into Vietnam

Chapter 3: Vietnam Import Duties and Taxes (Know How Much You’ll Pay to Import into Vietnam)

Having identified the goods to import, let’s look at the taxes and duties you’ll pay.

These are the levies that the customs will charge you imports before clearance.

You need to know all Vietnam import duties and taxes to clear your cargo faster.

Visit the Vietnam customs declaration to obtain an import duty declaration form.

The ASEAN

You’ll make all these payments before receiving goods.

When importing from Vietnam, you’ll pay these taxes:

  i. Import tax; you’ll pay this for nearly all goods you’re importing from China to Vietnam

 ii. VAT

iii. Special consumption tax on any goods

 iv. For some goods, you’ll pay special preferential tax

Remember, the type and amount of tax will depend on the type of product you’re importing.

For example, for luxury goods or consumer products, the taxes will be high.

Also, Vietnam exempts some machinery from import duty taxes.

Generally, import duty on your cargo will be between 0% and 25%.

On the other hand, the VAT varies between 0% and 10%.

For luxurious goods, you will pay the special consumption tax.

Take, for example; you’ll pay 7% for vehicles with high engine capacity.

Also, for cigarettes, you will pay 75%.

The bottom line:

This tax starts at 7% for vehicles and can even be as high as 100%.

Remember, China and Vietnam are members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Therefore, you can also benefit from special preferential tax tariffs.

Do you want to learn more about Vietnam import duties and taxes?

Here are more resources for you:

• Vietnam Custom Procedures
• Customs Procedures in Vietnam
• Vietnam Customs

Chapter 4: Truck Shipping from China to Vietnam

Now it’s time to focus on how you will ship from China to Vietnam.

In this chapter and the subsequent ones, I will take you through different ways of shipping from China to Vietnam.

Now, let me introduce you to truck shipping from China to Vietnam.

It is available if you want to ship your cargo from Yunnan Province to Vietnam.

Truck shipping

But what is truck shipping?

This type of shipping involves transporting your cargo in specialized trucks via road.

Truck shipping from China to Vietnam is flexible.

This is one of the main advantages.

Take for example; you can ship to very small towns that do not have access to airport, ocean or railway lines.

With this, JMS we can provide door to door shipping from China to Vietnam.

That is, you can access interior places within Vietnam.

And guess what?

This will be advantageous to you – truck shipping from China to Vietnam, cost-effective, convenient and reliable.

The process here is quite simple.

Step 1:

A truck carrying an empty container will arrive at your supplier for loading.

Depending on your contract agreement with your forwarder, they will load and secure your cargo ready for shipping.

Step 2:

You will ship your cargo to the destination via road.

At the entry point of the border, the customs will inspect the cargo while your forwarding agent clears with them.

Step 3:

After clearance, your cargo will be shipped to your destination still via road.

With truck shipping, you don’t have to worry about the type of cargo you want to ship.

This is because there are specialized trucks that will handle your cargo.

For instance, with refrigerated products, you have reefer trucks to handle your cargo.

Reefer container – Image source: Direct Industry

Reefer trucks are designed to keep your perishable cargo in a temperature that will maintain their condition.

This helps in your cargo arriving without spoiling.

Another type of truck available is the Flatbed & Heavy Haul Trucks.

These are designed to ship heavy and over-sized cargo.

Such cargo’s include heavy machinery, vehicles, and industrial equipment.

Another thing that you should keep in mind is that no matter the size of your cargo, truck shipping will handle it.

This is due to the availability of LTL (less than truck loading) and TL (truckload) options.

LCL carrier is where a truck generally combines freight from several customers in to fill a trailer.

On the other hand, TL carrier is where a trailer transports cargo belonging to one customer.

Truck freight from China to Vietnam

I know you are about to ask yourself so what are the charges involved.

Some factors determine truck shipping charges such as:

• Weight of the cargo
• Distance
• Type of cargo you’re shipping

When it comes to LTL, the freight class determines the rates.

Additional services such as delivery appointment and lift gate services attract additional charges.

Truckload charges are determined by the amount per mile that may include fuel surcharge.

Additional charges may apply for services like driver assistance.

Charges for flatbed depend on the equipment, total weight of the shipment and the mileage. Additional charges apply if there is an oversize cargo on-board.

It will also affect the transit time.

So what are some of the factors that you will have to consider before choosing to ship your cargo from China to Vietnam?

Here are some of these factors that you will consider.

· What is the urgency of your cargo?

Truck shipping is slower to air shipping, but faster than ocean shipping.

However, the cost of shipping via truck is relatively cheaper as compared to that of air.

So if you are in urgent need of your cargo and you don’t have enough finance, then truck shipping is the best option for you.

· Type of cargo

You need to evaluate the type of cargo that you are shipping.

If it is an expensive cargo like, let’s say diamond or gold, then truck shipping is not the best option for you.

However, if you are shipping goods that are not expensive, then you can use truck shipping.

The best thing about truck shipping is that you can even ship hazardous cargo.

Specialized trucks exist for your needs.

· Do you need special care for your cargo?

It is a question that you should ask yourself before deciding on truck shipping.

Remember cargo’s such as vehicles need special care when shipping.

Again, you need to understand that with truck shipping, various trucks fitted with safety measures exist.

Due to the proximity between China and Vietnam, truck shipping is quite favorable.

Get in touch with us for the best rates in the market on truck shipping.

Chapter 5: Ocean Freight Shipping to Vietnam from China

Another way of shipping your cargo to Vietnam is through ocean freight.

Though considered a slow way of shipping, ocean freight is the best when it comes to voluminous cargo.

This is due to its ability to handle relatively large cargo at a lower cost.

In this chapter, I am going to take you through the major seaports available in Vietnam as well as China.

Ocean freight from China to Vietnam

I will also illustrate the sea routes that your cargo will go through as well as the transit time they will take.

Let’s read along to understand.

5.1. Main Sea Ports in China

China has many strategic seaports, allowing you to import to Vietnam.

These seaports facilitate both international and domestic trade.

Shanghai seaport

The following is a list of 8 major seaports in China:

• Port of Shanghai
• Port of Shenzhen
• Port of Ningbo
• Port of Qingdao
• Port of Guangzhou
• Port of Tianjin
• Port of Dalian
• Port of Xiamen

Note that I have listed the above ports based on how busy they are starting from the busiest.

5.2. Main Sea Ports in Vietnam

Vietnam’s 3200km long coastline is home to about 49 seaports that facilitate its trade activities both domestically and internationally.

Some of these ports, however, are relatively small.

There exist 14 seaports that are relatively large.

They are the most commonly used ports when importing from China to Vietnam.

Let’s go right into this:

· HaiPhong Seaport

Situated in the city of Haiphong, HaiPhong seaport is a leading seaport in Vietnam.

It serves the northern region of Vietnam as well as the kumming-Lao-Cai-Hanoi-Haiphing corridor.

HaiPhong Seaport

Its proximity to the capital city of Vietnam makes it an ideal port if you want to ship your goods to the Hanoi or its vicinity.

Tang Cang container terminal located at the port has the most advanced facilities that handle containers.

These include quayside crane, portal crane, and rubber tyred gantry.

It consists of 5 wharfs with a total length of 980m which are all used to handle containers.

Also to note is that it has a warehouse area around 52,000 square meters.

The port can handle 10million cargos annually.

Construction is currently underway that will see the port renaming to the LachHuyen seaport.

It will constitute of an island linked to the mainland by a bridge.

In addition to this, it will have three container terminals and a bulk terminal.

The new port will be able to handle up to 40,000DWT.

With these facts, you don’t have to be afraid of importing to Vietnam from China – the HaiPhong Seaport will serve you.

· Vung Tau Seaport

Vung Tau seaport is the largest seaport in the southeastern region of Vietnam.

It consists of four wharfs namely:

• CaiMep- ThiVai port which is the main port when it comes to container handling. Before 2015, it had a capacity of handling ships up to 50,000 DWT.

 

However, after 2015, there has been an upgrade at this wharf that has enabled the port to handle ships up to 100,000 DWT.

 

• Port of Phu My is a general port that can handle up to 30,000. Plans are underway by the government to increase the capacity to 1000, 000DWT.

 Vung Tau Seaport

The other wharfs are Port of Dinh River, which is capable of handling up to 20,000DWT.

Not forgetting Port of Ben Dam, which is situated in Con Dao Island.

· QuyNhon port

This seaport is located in HaiCang along the eastern part of QuyNhon city and is operated by QuhNohn port handling limited.

It can handle between 30,000DWT and 50,000DWT ships making it a major port in BinhDinh province.

QuyNhon port

It is ideally situated near the international sea route, making it a convenient gateway to the east sea.

If you are planning on using this port, you don’t need to worry about the size of your cargo.

This is because it can handle various types of cargoes.

This includes bulk cargo, over length cargo and overweight containers.

This port best serves the area of GiaLai and Kon Tum, Laos and Cambodia not forgetting the BinhDinh province.

However, if you are planning to ship to interior areas, you don’t have to worry.

This is because the port connects to most major highways.

Your cargo will be offered a variety of services while at the port.

It includes cargo handling, tug boat,and warehousing.

· Da Nang Port

Located along the Han River on the South China Sea is the Da Nang port.

The port is the third largest port in Vietnam.

Its location at one end of the east-west economic corridor makes it an important port of the connection.

It connects Vietnam with Burma, Laos, and Thailand.

Da Nang Port

The port covers an area of 299,256 square meters and consists of two terminals and a freight warehouse.

The warehouse covers an area of 314,350 square ft.

It can handle over 2.7 million TEUs.

· SaiGon Port

It is the second largest seaport in Vietnam.

This port consists of a group of ports located in Ho Chi Minh City.

As of 2012, the port could handle 3.5 million TEUs annually.

It has increased its activities to become one of the busiest ports in the world.

SaiGon Port

Other ports that serve Vietnam include:

• Cua lo port has facilities that can handle import shipments for regions based in the Northcentral It includes the province of NgheAn and its surroundings.
• Dung Quat international port whose location has enabled it to attract investment for the Dung Quat economic zone.
• Chan May port which is the main gateway to East Asia. It connects Myanmar as well as Vietnam

5.3. Sea routes from China to Vietnam

Let me now explain to you the sea routes that your cargo will pass through.

Also, I will show you how long it will take for your cargo to arrive at your port of destination.

Sea route from China to Vietnam – Source: Ports.com

Let’s read along.

1. Port of Shanghai in China to the port of HaiPhong in Vietnam

Covering a distance of 1548nm, your cargo will start its shipment at the port of Shanghai in China.

It will proceed to the East China Sea heading to Hangzhou Bay.

From here, it will pass through the Taiwan Strait before joining the South China Sea.

Finally, your shipment will arrive at the port of HaiPhong through the Gulf of Tonkin.

Your shipment will take ten days before it arrives at the port of HaiPhong.

2. Port of Shanghai to Port of Godau

If you choose this route, your shipment will take eight days covering a distance of 1997nm to arrive.

The journey will start at the port of Shanghai heading to the East China Sea before landing at Hangzhou Bay.

From here, it will proceed to Taiwan Strait then into the South China Sea before ending at Godau port in Vietnam.

3. Port of Shenzhen to the port of Interflour

This route starts its voyage at port Shenzhen in China heading to the South China Sea before arriving at port Interflour in Vietnam.

It covers a distance of 1085nm taking five days to arrive.

4. Port of Shenzhen to Port of Hai Pong

Using this route will have your cargo starting its journey from Port Shenzhen and proceeding to the South China Sea.

From there, it will move to the Gulf of Tonkin before arriving at port Hai Pong in Vietnam.

This journey will take three days and covers a distance of 636nm.

5. Port of Guangzhou to port Saigon

Shipping using this route will take five days for your shipment to arrive.

The journey starts at the port of Guangzhou before heading to the South China Sea.

From there, it will arrive at Port Saigon covering a distance of 1093nm.

5.4.  Shipping companies from China to Vietnam

Your freight forwarder will choose a reliable shipping company.

Companies that ship cargoes from China to Vietnam include:

ZIM Shipping Company

Let’s have a quick overview of the main shipping companies from China to Vietnam:

· ZIM Integrated Shipping Services

This is an Israeli owned company with headquarters in Haifa.

However, there are regional offices based in Virginia, Hamburg and Hong Kong.

ZIM was founded in 1945 and is among the top 20 shipping companies globally.

It has 80 fully operational vessels that call at 180 ports in the world.

· China Ocean Shipping Company

It is a state-owned shipping company with its headquarters in Beijing.

It has a total of 114 ships.

China Ocean Shipping Company is the fourth largest chipping company regarding the number of container ships.

It had the largest dry bulk carrier in China and considered among the largest dry bulk carriers in the world.

· APL Shipping Company

APL operates a fleet of 153 container ships with its headquarters in the USA.

With an established presence in Vietnam dating back to 1946, it has offices across Vietnam.

This includes offices in HaiPhong, Ha Noi, and Ho Chi Minh City.

It is the world third largest container shipping company in the world.

· Pacific International Line

Founded in 1967, PIL has grown to be among the top 10 shipping companies.

It has a total of 160 vessels with a capacity of 447,000TEUs.

Its headquarters is in Singapore

· MSC shipping Company

It is the world’s fourth-largest shipping company in the world; the MSC shipping company operates 471 vessels.

These vessels have a capacity of 2,435,000TEUs.

Founded in Italy in 1947, it has its headquarters in Geneva.

In a nutshell, these are the main facts you need to know about ocean freight from China to Vietnam.

Chapter 6: Air Freight Shipping from China to Vietnam

There are times you would want your cargo urgently.

Though truck shipping is faster compared to ocean freight, it will still take more time.

We cannot talk of ocean shipping when urgency is crucial due to its slow nature.

The best option for this is air freight.

It is safe and guarantees faster shipping from China to Vietnam.

In this section, I am going to take you through the major airports in China and Vietnam.

Also, I will take you through some of the best airlines available that you can use to ship your cargo.

Let’s get started.

6.1. Main Airports in China

China is host to some of the busiest airports in the world.

It, however, does not imply that your cargo will delay for clearance.

In fact, the busy schedule enables China to improve on its efficiency.

If you want to ship via air, your goods will most likely have to pass through one of the following airports.

I have listed them starting with the busiest airports.

The cargo is in metric tons.

• Shanghai Pudong International Airport handled 3,440,279.7
• Beijing Capital International Airport handled 1,943,159.7
• Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport handled 1,652,214.9
• Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport handled 1,125,984.6
• Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport handled 611,590.7
• Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport handled 487,984.2
• Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport handled 428,907.5
• Kunming Changshui International Airport handled 382,854.3
• Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport handled 361,091.0
• Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport, Xiamen handled 328,419.5

Shanghai Pudong International Airport

The statistics above are based on the 2016 statistics as provided by the Civil Aviation Administration of China.

6.2. Main Airport in Vietnam

Now, let’s look at some of the main airports in Vietnam.

Vietnam airline

· Tan Son Nhat International Airport

This is the busiest airport in Vietnam that serves Ho Chi Minh City as well as the rest of South Eastern Vietnam.

The Vietnamese government owns this airport.

The airport corporation of Vietnam is in charge of the airport.

As of 2015, a total of 430,627 metric tons of cargo had passed through the airport.

The airport connects to the national route 1 with the Pham Van Dong Boulevard road

The location of the airport at the heart of Ho Chi Minh City makes it difficult for further expansion.

As a result, a new airport that will serve the international market is under construction.

The first phase will be complete by 2025.

The new airport will be known as Long Thanh International Airport.

· NoiBai International Airport

It is in Vietnam’s capital city of Hanoi.

It is the largest airport in Vietnam regarding capacity and the second busiest airport.

The airport sits on a 650-hectare piece of land.

It serves the cities of Hanoi, VĩnhYên, BắcNinh and TháiNguyê.

It’s the main hub for the country’s national flag carrier, Vietnam Airlines as well as Vieltjet and Jetstar Pacific.

This airport connects to the eastern suburbs of Hanoi via national road 3 and downtown Hanoi via the NhậtTân Bridge.

As of 2017, it had handled a total of 566, 000 metric tons of cargo.

· Da Nang International Airport

Da Nang international airport is in Da Nang, the largest city in central Vietnam.

It is an important gateway to accessing central Vietnam.

A new terminal is under construction to increase its capacity.

· Cam Ranh International Airport

Cam Ranh International Airport is on Cam Ranh Bay, situated in the town of Cam Ranh.

It is in the KhánhHòa Province off the southeastern part of Vietnam.

It is owned and operated by the government of Vietnam thou currently under renovation to be able to handle 10,000 metric tons of cargo by 2020.

The location helps in serving the city of NhaTrang,

6.3. Best Airlines for Shipping from China to Vietnam

You should choose a reliable and reputable airline that will ship your goods from China to Vietnam.

In this section, I am going to list some airlines you can choose for any airfreight from China to Vietnam.

Let’s get to that:

· China Cargo Airlines to Vietnam from China

This is cargo only airline with its headquarters in Hongqiao International Airport in Shanghai

It was founded in 1998 and has a total fleet of 20 airlines that serve 20 destinations.

China Eastern airline and China Shipping Company owns this airline.

Normally, it lands at Tan Son Nhat international airport.

· Cathay Pacific Airways Limited

Being the flag carrier for Hong Kong, It has its head office and main hub in Hong Kong international airport.

It has two models of the Boeing 747 for its cargo operations.

At the end of 2010, it had carried a total of 1.8 million tons of cargo.

It is one of the largest international airlines.

· Air Hong Kong

This airline is based in Chek Lap Kok, Hong Kong with its main hub in Hong Kong International airport.

It has been in operation since 1986

This airline specializes in cargo shipping with its fleets including Airbus A300-600F, Boeing 747-400BCF, and A300-600RF.

It calls at Tan Son Nhat International airport

· Cardig Air

With its headquarters in Indonesia, cardig Air operates scheduled cargo flights across Asia.

Founded in 2004, it owns Boeing 737-300 aircrafts which have been converted to cargo planes.

It started operating in Vietnam in 2016 and calls at Tan Son Nhat international airport.

What’s the bottom line here?

Apart from ocean freight from China to Vietnam or truck shipping from China to Vietnam, you can consider air freight.

But before that, you can talk to us.

At JMS, we will help you choose the best method for shipping from China to Vietnam.

Chapter 7: Modes of Shipping from China to Vietnam

Having identified the freight carrier for your cargo, you will be looking for a mode of shipping your cargo from China to Vietnam.

There are various modes of shipment that you can choose.

This Depends on:

• Size of your cargo
• Type of cargo
• Your destination
• Financial capability

In this chapter, I will explore all these options.

More importantly, I will offer free advice on which option is suitable for your unique shipping needs.

Let’s have a look.

7.1. Door to Door shipping from China to Vietnam

Door to door shipping from China to Vietnam is where all the shipping process is taken care of by your freight forwarder.

This process includes shipping, customs clearance, packaging, and delivery.

What’s more?

You do need to handle importation documents – freight forwarders from China to Vietnam handle everything.

Here, you will wait for the imports in your premises.

Door to door shipping from China to Vietnam – Photo credits: FedEx

The best part?

The door to door shipping from China to Vietnam reduces transportation cost.

Also, you don’t have to waste time following up on your imports from China to Vietnam.

Another key feature of this mode of shipping is that is secure.

A freight forwarder will ship cargo to your doorstep hence reducing chances of damages.

Now, who should use the door to door shipping from China to Vietnam?

Well, everyone is at liberty to use this service.

However, I wouldn’t recommend it for first-time importers.

It is because of the risks that are involved.

For instance, you need to establish a good relationship with the supplier.

Honestly, I recommend door to door shipping from China to Vietnam for the following:

• Regular importers with a lasting relationship with their suppliers as well as their freight forwarder.
• A first-time importer who trusts the supplier.

The door to door shipping normally combines two or more modes of shipping.

That is either road or rail and either air or ocean.

7.2. FCL Shipping from China to Vietnam

Full container load is a method of shipping where you rent out a whole container exclusively for your cargo.

It is up to you to utilize every space in the container, but it is not a must.

Whichever the case, you’ll pay for the entire container.

This type of shipment is convenient if you are shipping large volumes of cargo.

After closing the container, they will only open it at the port of destination.

It guarantees security.

FCL Shipping

Since the container only has your cargo, you are likely to receive it faster as compared to LCL.

With FCL you have the option of choosing which type of delivery that you want.

This includes:

• Door to door
• Door to port
• Port to port
• Port to the door.

Another feature of this method is that you can choose your cargo stuffing option .

This includes live loading where a container is delivered to you.

You are then required to load it within 2 to 3 hours and secure the container.

If you happen to pass the time allocated, extra charges will apply.

Another option for cargo stuffing is the drop and pack .

This is where a container freight forwarder will deliver the container to you.

You are given up to a week to load it up.

This is convenient if you are waiting for supplies that may take a while to reach the destination.

7.3. LCL Shipping from China to Vietnam

If you are a medium or a small type importer, then less than cargo shipping from China to Vietnam is convenient for you.

What happens is that you will contact your consolidator requesting for space in a container.

The consolidator will arrange for space for other importers who are heading in the same direction as you.

LCL Shipping

Once the container is full, they will ship it to you.

On this, you should remember that your shipper will be in charge of the container loading.

What are some of the limitations that you may encounter while using this mode?

For starters, you lose control of what type of cargoes the shipper will load alongside yours.

This may result in risks on your cargo such as damages.

Also, it may take a long time for your cargo to arrive at your port of destination.

It is because the shipper will unload goods for other shippers at different ports.

7.3. Roll On Roll Off Shipping from China to Vietnam

Commercial cargo is not the only thing you can import to Vietnam from China.

You can import vehicles, industrial equipment as well as motorcycles.

You can use Roll On Roll Off shipping.

Ro-Ro Shipping

This is possible using the Roll On Roll Off shipping services.

RoRO shipping is a type of shipping that specializes in transporting wheeled cargo.

These ships have ramps to load the vessel safely.

There is a variation of RoRo ships that include:

• ROPAX is a ship that combines RoRo services and shipping of passengers.
• ConRO which has cargo services as well as RoRo services.
• RoLo utilizes the services of RoRo and cranes. The cranes are used especially when ocean tides have changed.

Some of the companies that provide RoRo shipping services in Vietnam include:

• Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha (K Line) shipping company.
• NYK shipping line.

7.4. China Courier to Vietnam

If your cargo is urgent, then you will have to consider courier shipment from China to Vietnam.

This method of shipment is useful if:

• Cargo is urgent.
• Shipping expensive cargo. g., gold
• Shipping dangerous items like guns and explosives
• To ship samples from your suppliers

This method of shipping is convenient and fast

Companies that provide courier services in Vietnam include

• EMS international
• DHL
• FedEx
• UPS

Courier services from China to Vietnam

Your choice of shipment ought to factor in your resources.

Ensure you have money to cater for all your shipping expenses.

You need to consider the size of your cargo.

If you are shipping a relatively small cargo, then LCL can be cost-effective as compared to FCL.

Also, you have to consider the nature of your cargo.

RoRO shipping method is suitable for wheeled cargo such as vehicles.

Using another method to deliver your cargo may result in damages.

In short, you need to choose a shipping method that will be reliable and convenient.

Chapter 8: Shipping Cost from China to Vietnam

What about the cost of shipping from China to Vietnam?

It is a question that will influence the decisions you make when importing from China to Vietnam.

You have to minimize shipping cost to enjoy maximum profits.

Remember, the shipping and other logistical costs play an integral role when calculating the selling price in Vietnam.

In this section, I am going to take you through the process of calculating the shipping cost from China to Vietnam.

Also, I will show you various ways in which you can minimize the shipping cost of your cargo.

Let’s start off.

You need to understand that several factors determine the shipping cost from China to Vietnam.

Some of these factors are predictable, and your forwarder can explain them to you in advance.

Truck shipping from China to Vietnam

However, others are unpredictable.

Let me explain these factors and how they affect your shipping cost

· The rise in fuel prices

The fluctuation of fuel prices affects the shipping cost of your cost.

These prizes are unpredictable and as such a good freight forwarder should be able to explain any change to you.

· Terminal fees

Your shipping cost will depend on the terminal fees levied on your cargo.

These are fees that are charged by at the port while a ship is embarking from a journey.

Different ports have got different terminal fees.

· Trading currency

Which currency will you use to pay for your shipping cost?

Due to fluctuating currency exchange rates in the market, using a currency that is not stable may be costly.

It is therefore important that you use a stable currency to pay for your shipping charges.

Here, you can have a forward exchange contract.

· Port of destination

The distance that your shipment has an impact on the final cost of your shipment.

The further it is from your port of origin, the more you will pay for shipping.

· Season of shipment

Which season are you shipping your cargo?

If it happens to be during the peak season, then you will pay more for shipping.

It is because, during the peak seasons, many importers want to ship their cargo.

As such, shipping companies will hike their prizes.

Always plan your shipping during off-peak seasons.

This is because there are many ships which are willing to ship your cargo and they will do it at a favorable cost.

Also, you will get enough space for your cargo.

Airfreight from China to Vietnam

Having looked at the factors that will affect your shipping cost, let’s look at how a shipping quotation will be.

A typical shipping quote includes:

• Pre-carriage
• Carriage

When we are talking of pre carriage, I am referring to the inland movement of your cargo from your supplier to the port of origin.

Some of the main activities here: :

• Chassis use surcharge, these charges levied on the use of a Your freight forwarder uses it to transport your cargo.
• A fuel surcharge that is the charge levied for fuel used during the transportation of your cargo
• Packing surcharge, which is levied for the packing of your cargo into a container. This charge will apply if you have rented a warehouse. However, if you are using your supplier’s, then this charge will not be included.
• Customs clearance is charged so that your goods can be cleared by the customs before they are shipped.
• Wharfage charge is levied by a dock owner against a cargo that is handled at the dock.
• Documentation charge is levied for processing documents such as a certificate of origin, license, etc.

About the carriage, it is all about the moving your cargo by a shipping company from the port of origin to the port of destination.

The activities that are involved which you are likely to meet on your shipping quotation include but not limited to:

• BAF charge; the Bunker Adjustment Factor charge is used to pay the shipping company for changes in fuel cost.
• International Security Port Surcharge is levied by the port for the security of the ship while at the port.
• Terminal handling service at the port of origin is levied for the exportation of your cargo.
• BL fee is the fee charged by the shipping company for the preparation of the Bill Of Landing.

Before I forget, it is important as an importer that you minimize the shipping cost for cargo.

This will save you a lot of capital which you can use in another way.

Loading a ship

Let me take you through some of the ways that you can minimize the shipping cost.

ü  Negotiate with multiple forwarding companies

Start by getting a quotation from different freight forwarders.

This will help you narrow down to a forwarder that will suit your budget.

Negotiate with them if they can reduce the shipping cost.

You will find a forwarder who will tailor the shipping cost to your match.

ü  Use lean accepted packaging material

Packaging materials affect the cost of shipment as they add the dimensional fees.

As such, use international applicable packaging material that is provided by your carrier.

Try as much as possible not to use your packaging material.

ü  Factor shipping cost on your cargo

If you intend on selling your cargo after shipment, consider factoring the shipping cost on the cargo.

This will absolve you from having to shoulder for the cost.

ü  Consolidate your cargo before shipping

Try to ship your cargo at once as compared to shipping in bits.

This will help in reducing the shipping charges as you will be charged once as opposed to multiple times.

Whatever the budget you have, you can always get in touch with us, and we will offer a shipping cost that fits you.

Remember, at JMS, your success in importing from China to Vietnam is our pride.

That’s why we strive to give you the best rates in the market.

Chapter 9: Incoterms when Shipping from China to Vietnam

Incoterms used in international trade can be quite confusing.

Lack of information about what they mean and where they are applied can lead to confusion.

Therefore, you need to understand these Incoterms as well as what they mean and which party bears them.

Incoterms – Image source: Sea Corp.

This section offers you exactly that.

I am going to take you through every Incoterm.

Let’s read along to understand.

· FOB

Free On Board is a term of sale that is quoted by your supplier.

They undertake to cover all expenses involved up to when your cargo is on-board a ship.

Your freight forwarder then takes charge of your cargo.

From there, all other charges are billed on you.

· Ex-works

Using this term of the sale will involve you covering all expenses right from the supplier’s premise.

Your supplier will have to ensure that your cargo is packed properly ready for shipping and give all documents concerned.

This includes the packing list and the commercial invoice.

Using this term of sale means that you have full control of your cargo.

You will pay for loading the container, clearing with the customs at the port of origin and port of destination.

· Cost and Freight

It is where your supplier undertakes to cover all expenses from their premises to your port of destination.

You will be required to pay for the cargo insurance as well as the port charges.

· Carriage Paid To

This will involve your supplier undertaking to cover all expenses from their premises up to your final point of destination.

In most cases, the final destination is your warehouse.

They will cover the shipping charges and also the port charges at the port of destination.

What you will undertake is paying for the cargo insurance for your cargo.

However, your cargoes are considered to have been delivered once they have been passed on to the main or first carrier.

The risk involved is then passed over to you.

· Cost, Insurance, and Freight

This is where your supplier will undertake to cover all expenses involved from their premises to the port of destination that you choose.

They will also pay for the cargo insurance of your cargo.

Note that your supplier should pay for the cargo with the same currency as with the contract.

Also, the contract should be all-inclusive.

That is, every party with an insurable interest in the cargo should be able to make a claim.

· Cost Insurance Paid To

Price quoted here includes all charges involved from the supplier’s premise to your point of destination normally your warehouse.

These charges, including insurance for your cargo, will be paid by your supplier.

And don’t forget that the currency in the insurance cover should be in the same currency as with the contract.

· Delivery at Terminal

With this term, the supplier undertakes to bear all the charges involved from their premises to a named terminal.

This is normally the port of origin.

It includes unloading from the main carrier, export charges, and destination port charges.

All other charges from there will be paid for by you.

This will include customs clearance and paying for taxes and duties.

· Delivery at Place

It is where the supplier takes over all the responsibility from their premises to the place of destination in their country ready for export.

They will arrange for the loading and unloading as well as looking for a forwarder.

Your supplier will undertake all legal formalities involved in the country of origin at their own cost.

However, customs clearance including taxes and duties at the port of destination are paid for by you

· Delivery Duty Paid To

Under this term, maximum responsibility is placed on your supplier.

They are responsible for all cost involved in shipping from their premises to the point of destination.

This includes all import duties and taxes levied by the customs in your country as well as their country.

However, the cost of unloading is on you.

· Free Alongside Ship

The shipper’s responsibility ends when they place your cargo alongside your shipping vessel at a port of origin.

This term is applicable in non-containerization and ocean shipment as well as inland waterway transportation.

· Free Carrier

This term implies that your supplier is responsible for the delivery of goods cleared for export to a named place.

It may place may even be the supplier’s warehouse.

If the place is within the supplier’s control, then the supplier is responsible for the loading of the goods to your carrier.

However, if it happens to occur in another place, then the supplier is not responsible.

They will have delivered once the transport has reached the named place.

· Delivery Ex ship

This incoterm implies that your supplier will bear all the risks and the cost from their premises up to the port of destination and until the goods are made available to you for unloading.

The cost of unloading the cargo as well as paying for taxes and duty will be on you.

It is common when you are shipping grain and dry chemical where your supplier owns the vessel.

· Delivery Ex Quay

It is similar to delivery ex-ship, only that your supplier is responsible for the unloading cost of your cargo.

· Delivered Duty Unpaid

This is where your supplier is responsible for the delivery of your goods to the port of destination.

They will then pay for all transportation and customs clearance except for the duty of the cargo.

Your supplier will bear all the risk from their premises to the delivery location.

You will then pay for the duties and taxes.

· Delivery at the Frontier

This term is applicable when you are using rail or road transport.

Your supplier will arrange for the shipment of your cargo to the named place of delivery at the frontier.

You will then arrange for transportation from the frontier to your premise.

Also, you will be responsible for customs clearance.

The risk is transferred from your supplier to you at the frontier.

At JMS, we break down this term for you so that you get to know your responsibilities and risks associated with shipping.

It minimizes confusion while you are shipping.

Chapter 10: FAQs Guide when Shipping from China to Vietnam

At JMS, we have over the years sampled questions asked by our first-time importers, large and small scale importers.

We answer them appropriately so that you can get the solution to your burning questions.

JMS China

This chapter involves getting to understand answers to these questions.

Let’s dive right in:

1. What is 3PL?

A third party logistic is a company like JMS that offers logistical solutions to a shipper.

This includes all activities involved in shipping right from the moment you contact a freight forwarder to the point of delivery of the cargo.

2. How long will it take to ship my cargo from China to Vietnam?

Shipping from China to Vietnam depends on some factors, and they include:

• Shipping method and process – this can be by road, sea or air
• Weather condition
• Custom clearance procedure
• Distance from city or port in China to Vietnam

China to Vietnam

At JMS, we work with diligence to ensure that your cargo arrives within the estimated time.

The best part?

Will let you when to expect your cargo in Vietnam.

3. Does the quote freight forwarders offer expire?

Yes, they do.

Remember, the market prices tend to fluctuate; therefore, at some point, the quotes will change.

Tip: Identify a reputable freight forwarder to Vietnam, strive to have a long-term working relationship to get a better quote.

4. What is a freight class?

The National Motor Freight Transport Association classifies freight into 18 classes.

This is based on the parameters of density, handling, and labeling.

It is important in calculating the cost levied by the carrier for your cargo.

5. Can I use an estimated weight for my shipment?

No.

It is important to get an accurate weight for your cargo as opposed to an estimated weight.

Using an estimated weight may result in additional charges to the cost of your shipping.

Normally, it is because your carrier will have to re-bill the difference in weight.

6. Why did I receive a re-bill?

Re-bills are normally due to unpaid shipping cost that is brought up by the carrier.

It is as a result of providing inaccurate information about the weight of your cargo.

It may also be brought about by incorrect freight class as well as incorrect dimensions of your cargo.

7. How do I avoid re-billing of my cargo?

Freight forwarders calculate costs depending on:

• Type of cargo
• Weight
• Dimension
• Pickup and delivery location
• Distance

Always ensure that you provide this information accurately at the time of booking.

Type of shipping container Source: China Woven Bag

The aim here is to minimize the billing charges on your cargo.

8. Are the rates a freight forwarder final?

Well, the rates depend on the information you’ll give a freight forwarder plus their assessment.

In case you give freight forwarder accurate information about your cargo, then the rates will be final.

However, additional charges may come up, especially if you give wrong information.

A carrier will have to re-bill the shipping cost, thereby adding your shipping cost.

9. How should my cargo be packed?

Choosing a good package will secure your cargo, hence reducing possible damages.

Always ensure that you have packed all your items properly.

Normally this includes packaging, crating or stacking and securing them onto pallets using bands.

And don’t forget to clearly label your shipment on more than one place for ease of visibility.

A good freight forwarder will help you in the packing process.

They will also oversee the loading process.

10. Is it really important to get insurance for my cargo?

Yes.

Cargo insurance is important to safeguard your cargo from natural risks during shipping.

These risks include natural disasters or even pirates in the case of ocean freight.

At JMS, we offer customized cargo insurance policy for your cargo at a competitive market rate.

11. What happens if I am not around at the time of delivery of my cargo?

Due to the inspection required on your cargo during delivery, we recommend that you be physically present.

Even for the door to door delivery from China to Vietnam, you should be present to receive the cargo.

12. How can I ship from China to Vietnam?

You can choose from:

• Air freight from China to Vietnam
• A truck from China to Vietnam
• Ocean freight from China to Vietnam

The freight forwarder from China to Vietnam will advise you accordingly.

By the way, in case you have any questions, feel free to contact us.

JMS is here to serve you.

Conclusion

In short, you can choose from ocean freight from China to Vietnam, a truck from China to Vietnam or air freight from China to Vietnam.

Choosing any of these methods of shipping from China to Vietnam will depend on the situation at hand.

The freight forwarder will assess the situation at hand and advise you accordingly.

Now it’s your turn:

What was your experience the last time you shipped from China to Vietnam?

Or, are you new to the importing from China?

Feel free to leave a quick comment below or contact us.