Shipping from Vietnam to USA

The Complete Guide to Rates, Transit Times, and Duties

JC Trans /Nvocc

Optimize Your Supply Chain for Speed and Cost Looking for the best rates from Vietnam to the USA? We combine the most competitive air and ocean freight rates with transparent door-to-door service. Focus on growing your business, and leave the logistics challenges to us.

Explore Shipping Options.

Cost-Effective Ocean Freight

Reliable FCL & LCL solutions designed to move bulk shipments at the best possible cost.

Express Air Freight

Fast 5-7 day transit. Ideal for urgent restocking, samples, or high-value inventory.

Hassle-Free Logistics

Vietnam to USA Door to Door Shipping Solutions

Vietnam to USA door to door shipping is a reliable logistics solution for importers sourcing products from Vietnam and delivering them directly to destinations across the United States.
This service is designed for businesses that require full control over origin pickup, international transportation, customs clearance, and final delivery under a single coordinated logistics structure.
By offering both DDP and DDU shipping models, our Vietnam to USA door to door shipping solutions support manufacturers, trading companies, and e-commerce sellers seeking predictable transit, compliance management, and streamlined supply chain execution.

Comprehensive Shipping from Vietnam to USA

Shipping from Vietnam to the USA involves multiple coordination points, including inland trucking, port handling, ocean freight, customs clearance, and last-mile delivery.
A door to door shipping structure consolidates these steps into a single operational flow, reducing communication gaps and minimizing risk during transit.

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Pickup from factories and warehouses across Vietnam

We coordinate seamless pickups from suppliers in Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi, or any industrial zone. Our local trucking network ensures your cargo is collected promptly and safely started on its journey.

Export documentation and customs coordination

We handle all essential export paperwork, including Certificates of Origin and permits. Our team ensures full compliance with Vietnamese regulations to prevent delays and ensure a smooth departure.

Ocean freight to major US ports

Whether shipping FCL or LCL, we secure competitive rates to key ports like LA, Long Beach, and NY. Enjoy reliable sailing schedules and real-time tracking throughout the Pacific transit.

Import customs clearance

Navigate US regulations effortlessly with our expert brokerage services. We handle ISF filing, HTS classification, and duty payments to ensure your cargo clears customs without penalties or holds.

Delivery to US warehouses

From port to door, we arrange efficient inland trucking services. Whether it’s a fulfillment center or a private facility, we ensure your cargo is transferred immediately after arrival at the port.

Warehousing & Distribution

Need storage or FBA prep? We offer short-term warehousing, palletizing, and labeling services in the US, giving you flexibility to manage inventory before it reaches the final customer.

Major Vietnam Origin Ports We Support

Vietnam to USA door to door shipping delivers value beyond basic transportation by integrating all logistics stages into a single, coordinated workflow. This structure gives importers greater shipment visibility while significantly reducing operational complexity throughout the shipping process.

DDU Shipping from Vietnam to USA

To streamline the U.S. import customs clearance process, we can, upon request, arrange duty and tax advance services within the United States. This allows shipments to be released during U.S. customs clearance without the importer being required to make direct payment at the time of entry. All applicable charges are subsequently settled through a consolidated billing arrangement.
This Vietnam to USA DDU shipping model is well suited for U.S. importers who wish to remain the importer of record, enabling improved operational efficiency while maintaining full compliance with U.S. customs regulations.
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DDP Shipping from Vietnam to USA

Under the DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shipping model for Vietnam to USA shipments, transportation, customs clearance, and applicable import duties and taxes are fully coordinated as part of an all-inclusive delivery solution. The importer is not required to arrange separate customs payments or clearance procedures at the time of entry.
This Vietnam to USA DDP shipping option is suitable for importers seeking a simplified and predictable logistics structure, offering clear landed cost visibility and reduced administrative involvement while ensuring compliance with U.S. import regulations.
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Major Vietnam Origin Ports We Support

From these major Vietnamese origin ports, Linkway Freight provides end-to-end ocean freight solutions to the United States, including DDU and DDP options.

Ho Chi Minh
Cai Mep Port

Deep-Water Port with Direct US Services

Located along the Cai Mep–Thi Vai river system in Ba Ria–Vung Tau Province, Cai Mep International Terminal is Vietnam’s leading deep-water port, handling over 15 million TEUs annually. Its deep draft allows direct mainline vessel calls without transshipment.
Cai Mep maintains strong trade links with the United States, the European Union, and Japan, and benefits from close proximity to Ho Chi Minh City and southern Vietnam’s manufacturing clusters.
For US importers requiring stable transit times, direct sailings, and high-capacity services, Cai Mep is a preferred origin port for door-to-door ocean freight solutions.

Haiphong Port

Serving Northern Vietnam’s Manufacturing Base

Located along the Cam River near the coastline, the Port of Hai Phong is one of Vietnam’s most important maritime gateways, handling over 40 million tons of cargo annually. It plays a central role in exports from northern Vietnam, including electronics, machinery, and industrial components.
Hai Phong maintains strong trade connections with China, South Korea, and Japan, and offers direct access to the Hanoi region and surrounding industrial zones.
For importers sourcing from northern Vietnam or mainland Southeast Asia, Hai Phong provides a stable and efficient export channel with reliable sailing schedules to the US.

Da Nang Port

A Strategic Gateway for Central Vietnam

Situated in central Vietnam, the Port of Da Nang handles more than 12 million tons of cargo per year and serves as a key logistics hub for regional exports. It is commonly used for specialized shipments and cargo requiring efficient inland routing from central production areas.
Da Nang maintains active trade links with multiple Southeast Asian markets, particularly Taiwan and Malaysia.
For businesses expanding operations in central Vietnam or targeting regional trade flows, Da Nang offers a practical and well-positioned export option.

FCL & LCL Shipping from Vietnam to the USA

To support different cargo volumes and import strategies, Linkway Freight offers both Full Container Load (FCL) and Less Than Container Load (LCL) ocean freight solutions from Vietnam to the United States. Whether you are shipping full container quantities or smaller consolidated loads, we help you select the most efficient option based on cost, transit stability, and delivery requirements, while supporting DDU and DDP delivery models.

Full Container Load (FCL)

Efficient and Secure Shipping for High-Volume Cargo

What Is FCL

Full Container Load (FCL) refers to a shipping method where an entire container is reserved for a single shipper. The container remains sealed from origin to destination, offering a higher level of cargo security and operational control. For larger shipments, FCL is often the most efficient and cost-effective option.

When FCL Makes Sense

FCL is typically recommended when your cargo volume exceeds approximately 13–15 CBM. At this level, the cost per cubic meter drops significantly, making full-container shipping more economical than shared options.

Practical Use Case

For example, if you are exporting furniture from Vietnam and can utilize a 20-foot or 40-foot container, FCL allows your goods to move directly to US destinations without consolidation, reducing handling risks and transit uncertainty.

Cost Considerations

FCL pricing is mainly influenced by container size, routing, and distance. While the upfront cost of booking a full container may be higher, the lower cost per unit makes FCL the most economical choice for large-volume shipments. With proper planning, FCL can significantly optimize overall shipping costs and delivery efficiency.

Less Than Container Load (LCL)

Flexible Shipping for Smaller Volumes

What Is LCL

Less Than Container Load (LCL) is designed for shipments that do not require a full container. Multiple shippers share space in one container, allowing businesses to move smaller cargo volumes without committing to an entire container.

When LCL Is the Right Choice

LCL is ideal for shipments under approximately 13–15 CBM. It offers flexibility and lower upfront costs, making it a practical option for small or irregular shipments.

Practical Use Case

For instance, if you are shipping 10 CBM of goods from Ho Chi Minh City to Los Angeles, your cargo will be consolidated with other shipments. You only pay for the space your cargo occupies, while still benefiting from international ocean freight services.

Cost Considerations

LCL helps control costs by eliminating the need to pay for unused container space. However, due to consolidation, handling, and deconsolidation fees, the cost per CBM is generally higher than FCL. For growing shipment volumes, transitioning from LCL to FCL often leads to better cost efficiency.

Linkway Freight’s Professional Recommendation

Linkway Freight will match the most suitable shipping solution based on your cargo volume, shipping frequency, delivery model (DDU / DDP), and US destination.
Whether you choose LCL or FCL, we focus on cost control, delivery reliability, and compliant customs clearance to help optimize your overall logistics strategy from Vietnam to the United States.

Simplify Your Logistics from Vietnam to the US with Linkway Freight

Confused about consolidation or full container shipping options? Linkway Freight is here to streamline your global trade. Our freight forwarding experts meticulously evaluate crucial factors—such as cargo volume, budget constraints, and delivery timelines—to engineer your ideal shipping method. Don’t let logistics complexities slow you down. Instead, let us make your shipping process hassle-free and efficient. Ready to optimize your supply chain? Contact Linkway Freight for a free estimate today!

Types of Cargo Shipped from Vietnam to the USA

Vietnam exports a diverse range of products to the United States. Our Vietnam to USA door to door shipping service supports multiple cargo categories, including:

  • Furniture and home goods
  • Textiles and garments
  • Footwear and accessories
  • Consumer electronics
  • Industrial components
  • Handcrafted and manufactured products

Sea Freight Transit Times

Estimated Shipping Time: Vietnam to USA Sea freight shipping between Vietnam and the US typically takes around 30-36 days. However, it is important to note that these transit times vary based on several factors, including the specific ports of loading/discharge, cargo weight, and the nature of the goods. For a precise timeline tailored to your shipment, we recommend consulting with Linkway Freight directly.

Average Port-to-Port Transit Times:

Origin (Vietnam)Destination (USA)Average Transit Time (Days)
Haiphong (HPH)Los Angeles (LAX)25 – 30
Haiphong (HPH)Long Beach (LGB)25 – 30
Haiphong (HPH)Houston (HOU)30 – 35
Haiphong (HPH)New York (NYC)35 – 40
Ho Chi Minh (SGN)Los Angeles (LAX)20 – 25
Ho Chi Minh (SGN)Long Beach (LGB)20 – 25
Ho Chi Minh (SGN)Houston (HOU)25 – 30
Ho Chi Minh (SGN)New York (NYC)35 – 40

Note: These are estimated times provided for planning purposes. Contact Linkway Freight for real-time schedules.

Why Use Linkway’s Door-to-Door Service?

The Ultimate Convenience: Door-to-Door Logistics Navigating international shipping can be complex, but Linkway Freight simplifies it with our Door-to-Door service. This method handles every step from the factory in Vietnam to your warehouse in the US.

Customs Clearance Guide: Importing to the US

Mastering US Customs Compliance Customs clearance is an intricate dance of procedures involving duties, taxes, quotas, and HS codes. Understanding US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations is crucial to avoid hidden fees or delays. Linkway Freight is at your service to simplify this complexity.

How to Calculate Duties & Taxes (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Identify the Country of Origin

The origin directly affects the HS Code and tariff rates. Since Vietnam benefits from trade relationships with the US, knowing the origin helps you leverage potential benefits and avoid legal issues regarding misdeclaration.

Step 2: Find the HS Code

The Harmonized System (HS) code is the universal language for classifying goods. You can ask your supplier or use the Harmonized Tariff Schedule lookup tool. An accurate code is vital to prevent fines or refusal of entry.

Step 3: Calculate the Customs Value (CIF)

Duties are often based on the CIF Value (Cost, Insurance, and Freight).
Example: Goods cost $1,000 + Shipping $200 + Insurance $150 = $1,350 Customs Value

Step 4: Determine the Import Tariff

Visit the USITC (US International Trade Commission) website and search your HS Code.
Calculation: If the tariff rate is 1.3% and your CIF value is $11,000, the duty is $143.

Step 5: Consider Other Taxes

Importing from Vietnam involves navigating a layered tax structure. In addition to standard duties, specific commodities and recent policies trigger significant surcharges:

  • Reciprocal Tariff (Additional Duty): A 20% additional tariff currently applies to goods imported from Vietnam. This is added on top of the standard duty.
  • Section 232 Tariffs (Steel & Aluminum): Specific to metal imports. Regardless of origin, most steel and aluminum products face strict additional duties
    Steel Products: 25% additional duty.
    Aluminum Products: 10% additional duty.
  • Anti-Dumping (AD) & Countervailing Duties (CVD): Applicable if goods (especially steel, tires, or frozen foods) are sold below fair market value or subsidized.

Step 6: Total Duty Calculation Formula

Calculating your total landed cost now requires factoring in the new 20% reciprocal tariff. Here is the updated formula structure:
Basic Duty: Customs Value x Standard Duty Rate (e.g., 5%)
Reciprocal Tariff: Customs Value x 20%
Total Duty Payable: Basic Duty + Reciprocal Tariff
With Anti-Dumping (if applicable): Total Duty + Anti-Dumping Tax

Calculation Example: If your goods have a Customs Value of $10,000 and a basic duty rate of 5%:

  • Basic Duty: $10,000 x 5% = $500
  • Reciprocal Tariff: $10,000 x 20% = $2,000
  • Total Customs Cost: $500 + $2,000 = $2,500

Required Customs Documents

Ensuring the accuracy of these essential documents is critical to preventing costly delays and guaranteeing a smooth customs clearance process.

Ensure these documents are accurate to avoid headaches:

Bill of Lading (B/L)

  • What it is: The B/L is much more than a ticket; it is the “Title of Goods.” It serves three critical roles: a receipt for the cargo, a contract of carriage between you and the carrier, and a document of title (ownership).
  • Key Feature: It dictates who has the right to claim the cargo at the destination.
  • Pro Tip (Telex Release): To speed up the process, opt for a “Telex Release” (Surrender B/L). This digital surrender allows the consignee to pick up goods without waiting for the physical paper mail to arrive, eliminating the risk of lost documents and courier delays.

Packing List

  • What it is: A precise itemization of the shipment. It must match the physical cargo 100%. Customs officers use this document to conduct inspections and verify that what is in the container matches what was declared.
  • Key Details: It must clearly list the Net Weight, Gross Weight, Dimensions (CBM), Package Count (e.g., pallets, cartons), and specific Marks & Numbers on the packaging.
  • Risk Warning: Even a small discrepancy (e.g., declaring 100 cartons but shipping 101) can trigger a red flag, leading to intensive customs exams, storage fees, and severe delays.

Commercial Invoice

  • What it is: This is the primary document used by US Customs to assess import duties and taxes. It is not just a request for payment; it is a legal declaration of the goods’ value.
  • Key Components: It must include the Buyer and Seller’s full information, accurate HS Codes (Harmonized System codes), unit price, total value, currency, and the Incoterms (e.g., FOB, CIF, DDP).
  • Why it matters: The HS Code determines the tariff rate. An incorrect code or undervalued invoice can lead to retroactive penalties, fines, and audits by Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Certificate of Origin (C/O)

  • What it is: An official document certifying the specific country where the goods were grown, produced, or manufactured. It acts as the “Passport” for your products.
  • Compliance: It proves your goods are not from a sanctioned country or one subject to higher anti-dumping duties.It is the key to claiming Preferential Duty Rates. If your goods qualify under specific Free Trade Agreements, a valid C/O can reduce your tariff rate to zero.
  • Note: For Vietnam-US trade, this is crucial to distinguish your products from those of other nations that may face higher Section 301 tariffs.

The Vietnam-US Trade Boom: A Strategic Context for Your LogisticsS

The Vietnam-US trade relationship, dating back to 1995, has bloomed into a dynamic partnership essential for modern supply chains. The journey commenced with the Bilateral Trade Agreement in 2001, easing trade restrictions and opening key sectors like telecommunications, energy, and consumer goods.

By 2024, bilateral goods and services trade had soared to nearly $150 billion, representing a dramatic escalation from a humble $450 million in 1995. Both nations mutually prize sectors like electronics, footwear, textiles, and petroleum. Currently, Vietnam’s leading exports are electrical machinery and footwear, while the US supplies mostly cotton, aircraft, and plastics.

As of 2023, US foreign direct investment (FDI) stood robust at a $23 billion mark, reaffirming faith in Vietnam’s economic promise.

Your Next Step with Linkway Freight

Shipping goods between Vietnam and the US can be daunting: complex customs regulations, changing tariffs, and endless documentation. Why get caught in the delays?