Shipping Goods to Vietnam from the USA

Vietnam Import Regulations: A Complete Guide for U.S. Shippers

Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing economies and a top destination for both personal shipments and U.S. commercial exports. If you’re shipping from the USA to Vietnam, understanding customs procedures, taxes, and documentation is key to avoiding delays and minimizing your international shipping costs.

This guide outlines the steps for importing goods into Vietnam and explains how working with a trusted international shipping company can ensure affordable shipping and efficient delivery.

Key Facts About Importing to Vietnam

The General Department of Vietnam Customs governs Vietnam’s customs system.
Import procedures are based on harmonized international standards, but they also incorporate unique national regulations.

U.S. goods may be eligible for preferential treatment under most-favored-nation (MFN) tariff rates.
All shipments must undergo customs clearance, with accurate Harmonized System (HS) codes and values.

A professional international shipping company can guide you through these formalities and help reduce your international shipping costs.

Step-by-Step: How to Import to Vietnam

1. Required Documents for Customs Clearance

To import to Vietnam from the U.S., you’ll need:

Bill of Lading (BOL) or Air Waybill
Commercial invoice (with detailed product description and HS codes)
Packing list
Certificate of Origin (Form B or D, if applicable)
Import declaration (filed electronically)
Import permit (for regulated/restricted goods)

For personal shipments:

Passport copy
Inventory list
Proof of residency or work permit in Vietnam
Declaration of non-commercial use

Vietnamese customs can request translations of documents into Vietnamese.

2. Duties, VAT, and Other Taxes

For most imports:

Import duty: Ranges from 0% to 30%, depending on the product classification
VAT: Standard rate is 10%, applied to the CIF value + duty
Special consumption tax: Applies to tobacco, alcohol, and luxury items

U.S.-origin goods are eligible for MFN rates, which are lower than general rates.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

Restricted Goods:

Medications – Require Ministry of Health approval
Food products – Must comply with food safety and quarantine regulations
Cosmetics – Require registration and an import license
Machinery or electronics – Must meet local safety standards
Used items (including electronics or tires) – Heavily restricted or banned

Prohibited Items:

Narcotics and controlled substances
Weapons and ammunition
Reactionary, obscene, or anti-government materials
Counterfeit goods
Endangered wildlife products (under CITES)

Shipping Personal Effects to Vietnam

If you're relocating to Vietnam, personal goods can be imported tax-free or at reduced rates, provided:

You are entering Vietnam on a long-term visa or work contract
Goods are for personal use only, not resale
Items are used and owned before relocation

Required Documents:

Passport and visa
Work permit or residence certificate
Inventory list
Customs declaration
Proof of prior overseas residence

New, high-value items or large shipments may still be subject to tax.

Packaging and Labeling Requirements

Vietnam has strict labeling laws for commercial imports. Ensure your shipment includes:

Vietnamese-language labels for consumer goods
Product name, ingredients, usage instructions
Manufacturing and expiration dates
Country of origin
CE or conformity markings if required

For sea freight, ISPM 15 certification is mandatory for all wooden packaging (crates and pallets).

Who Can Help?

Partner With an International Shipping Company

Customs in Vietnam can be complex. Working with a professional international shipping company ensures:

Proper documentation and HS classification
VAT and duty calculation accuracy
Filing of import declarations
Coordination with Vietnamese customs brokers
Safe, affordable shipping options via sea or air

They also help navigate any required translations and manage clearance for restricted goods.

✅ Requirement	Applies to	Action
Import declaration	All shipments	File electronically with Vietnam Customs
Commercial invoice / BOL	All shipments	Must be accurate and match the declaration
VAT (10%) + duties (0–30%)	Most goods	Based on the CIF value
Certificate of Origin	U.S.-made goods	Required to apply MFN rates
ISPM 15	Wood packaging	Required for all wooden crates and pallets
Vietnamese labeling	Retail/commercial goods	Labels must comply with regulations

Final Import Checklist for Vietnam

Conclusion: Shipping to Vietnam from the USA

Vietnam is a dynamic and opportunity-rich market for U.S. exporters, as well as a welcoming country for expatriates and students. Whether you're moving personal effects or conducting business, you must prepare thoroughly to comply with customs rules.

A reliable international shipping company can help you navigate Vietnam’s import process, file declarations, and offer affordable shipping from the USA with confidence.