About Shipping

Ensuring Seamless Shipping for Your Vietnam Sourced Products

When sourcing products from Vietnam, shipping plays a critical role in ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery to your destination. At Vietnam Sourcing Agent Service, we provide flexible shipping solutions tailored to your specific needs. From small parcels to large-volume shipments, our comprehensive logistics services ensure that your goods arrive safely and efficiently. Below, we detail our shipping methods, terms, and recommendations to help you make informed decisions for your shipments.


I. Shipping Methods

We provide a variety of shipping methods to cater to different shipment sizes and timelines. The most common methods include air express, air freight, and sea freight, each suited for specific shipping requirements.

1. Air Express

Air express services are offered by renowned carriers such as FedEx, DHL, and UPS. This method is ideal for small shipments weighing less than 200kg.

  • Delivery Time: 3–7 days, depending on the destination.
  • Best For: Urgent or lightweight shipments.
  • Cost: Higher per kg compared to other shipping methods but provides unmatched speed and convenience.

2. Air Freight

For shipments exceeding 500kg, air freight becomes more cost-effective compared to air express.

  • Delivery Time: 7–14 days, depending on the airline and destination.
  • Best For: Medium to large shipments that require faster delivery than sea freight but at a reasonable price.
  • Cost: Lower per kg than air express but requires additional handling at the destination.

3. Sea Freight

Sea freight is the most economical option for large shipments, especially those exceeding 3CBM (cubic meters).

  • Delivery Time: 20–45 days, depending on the destination port.
  • Best For: Large-volume shipments or non-urgent cargo.
  • Cost: Significantly lower compared to air freight or air express.
Container Capacities for Sea Freight:

We facilitate shipping in the following standard container types:

  • 20″ GP Container
    • Capacity: 28CBM
    • Payload: 17.5 Tons
  • 40″ GP Container
    • Capacity: 58CBM
    • Payload: 22 Tons
  • 40″ HQ Container
    • Capacity: 68CBM
    • Payload: 22 Tons

II. Shipping Terms for Sea Freight

Shipping terms determine the responsibilities of the buyer and seller throughout the shipping process. At Vietnam Sourcing Agent Service, we typically quote product prices on an ExW (Ex Works) basis, but we can also provide quotes based on other shipping terms, depending on your requirements.

1. EXW (Ex Works)

Under Ex Works terms, the customer is responsible for arranging transportation from our warehouse in Vietnam to the final destination. Additionally, the customer handles all export processes and related costs.

  • Cost: $0 for shipping; all costs are borne by the customer.
  • Responsibilities:
    • Organizing local pick-up.
    • Handling customs clearance in Vietnam.
    • Arranging international and last-mile shipping.

2. FOB (Free on Board)

For FOB terms, we handle the transportation of your goods to a designated port in Vietnam (e.g., Ho Chi Minh or Hai Phong), as well as the export clearance process. Once the goods are loaded onto the shipping vessel, the responsibility transfers to you or your forwarder.

  • Additional Cost: FOB fees vary depending on shipment volume.
  • Responsibilities:
    • You pay the freight from the Vietnamese port to the destination.
    • Your forwarder manages customs clearance and final delivery.
  • Advice: This term is ideal if you have a reliable freight forwarder and want better control over shipping costs.

3. CIF (Cost Insurance Freight)

CIF terms include delivery to the destination port in your country, along with insurance coverage during transit. However, the buyer is responsible for customs clearance, local transportation from the destination port, and any associated charges.

  • Cost: Higher than FOB but includes insurance.
  • Responsibilities:
    • Import clearance at the destination port.
    • Local delivery to your warehouse or final destination.
  • Advice: Be cautious of additional charges at the destination port, which may exceed the initial quote.

4. DDU/DDP (Delivered Duty Unpaid/Paid)

With DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid) or DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) terms, we handle nearly the entire shipping process, from our warehouse to your destination.

  • DDU: You handle customs duties at the destination.
  • DDP: We include customs duties and taxes in the shipping cost, providing a true door-to-door solution.
  • Cost: Higher upfront costs but eliminates the need for a local customs broker.
  • Responsibilities: Minimal; you simply receive the goods at your warehouse or home.

III. Choosing the Right Shipping Option

Selecting the most suitable shipping method and term depends on several factors, including shipment size, urgency, and cost considerations. Below are some general guidelines to help you decide:

Small Shipments (<200kg)

  • Recommended Method: Air express.
  • Shipping Term: DDU or DDP for simplicity.
  • Best For: E-commerce businesses or product samples.

Medium Shipments (200kg–3CBM)

  • Recommended Method: Air freight.
  • Shipping Term: FOB or DDU/DDP, depending on whether you want to handle import processes.
  • Best For: Expanding product lines or seasonal restocking.

Large Shipments (>3CBM)

  • Recommended Method: Sea freight.
  • Shipping Term: FOB for cost control; DDP for convenience.
  • Best For: Bulk inventory replenishment or long-term supply contracts.

IV. Key Considerations for Cost Efficiency

Shipping costs can significantly impact your overall sourcing budget. Here are a few tips to optimize shipping expenses:

1. Consolidate Shipments

Combining multiple products into one shipment reduces per-unit shipping costs and minimizes customs clearance fees.

2. Plan Ahead

Non-urgent shipments can be sent via sea freight to save costs. Air express should only be used for time-sensitive orders.

3. Negotiate with Forwarders

Working with a reliable freight forwarder can help you secure better rates, especially for regular shipments.

4. Understand Destination Charges

Some forwarders quote low CIF fees but charge high destination handling fees. Always clarify these costs upfront.


V. Tracking and Support

At Vietnam Sourcing Agent Service, we prioritize transparency and reliability throughout the shipping process. Our services include:

1. Real-Time Shipment Tracking

We provide live updates on the status of your shipment, including transit and customs clearance.

2. Dedicated Customer Support

Our team is available to address any shipping-related concerns and ensure a smooth delivery experience.

3. Problem Resolution

In the rare event of delays or issues, we work proactively with forwarders and customs officials to resolve them quickly.


VI. Why Choose Vietnam Sourcing Agent Service for Shipping?

When you choose us, you benefit from:

  • Tailored Solutions: Shipping methods and terms that align with your business needs.
  • Cost Transparency: Clear and competitive pricing with no hidden fees.
  • Reliable Partnerships: Established relationships with top carriers and forwarders.
  • End-to-End Support: Comprehensive logistics management from pick-up to delivery.

VII. Final Thoughts

Shipping is a critical component of the sourcing process, and getting it right is essential for the success of your business. At Vietnam Sourcing Agent Service, we strive to provide efficient, cost-effective, and reliable shipping solutions tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re shipping a small parcel or a full container load, our expertise ensures that your products reach their destination on time and in perfect condition.

Contact us today to discuss your shipping requirements and let us help you streamline your logistics process.

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