Last updated: April 2026
China to Vietnam Freight Guide
The most comprehensive 2026 guide to shipping from China to Vietnam — covering air freight, sea freight, transit time, costs, and customs tips.
What is a China-Vietnam Special Line?
A China-Vietnam special line is a dedicated freight route from China (primarily Shenzhen) to major Vietnamese cities (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, etc.). Compared to standard international express, special line freight offers transparent pricing, stable transit times, and supports both small parcels and bulk cargo — making it the preferred choice for cross-border e-commerce sellers and trading companies.
Shipping Methods Compared
Air Freight
Ideal for small, high-value, or time-sensitive shipments. Direct flights from Shenzhen to Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City. Transit: 3-7 business days.
- Fast: 3-7 business days
- Great for e-commerce parcels and samples
- High security, low damage rate
- Higher cost
- Weight restrictions per piece
Sea Freight
Ideal for large volumes and heavy cargo. Available as FCL (Full Container Load) or LCL (Less than Container Load) — the most cost-effective option.
- Low cost for bulk cargo
- Flexible FCL/LCL options
- No weight limit
- Longer transit: 15-25 days
- Subject to weather and port conditions
Key Shipping Routes
| 出发地 / Origin | 目的地 / Destination | 空运 | 海运 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shenzhen | Hanoi (HAN) | 3-5 days | 15-20 days |
| Shenzhen | Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) | 4-7 days | 18-25 days |
| Shenzhen | Da Nang (DAD) | 5-7 days | 20-25 days |
Customs & Clearance Tips
Vietnam import duties vary significantly by HS code — confirm the applicable tax rate in advance.
A Commercial Invoice and Packing List are mandatory documents for all shipments.
Some goods require a Vietnamese import license (e.g. food, cosmetics, electronics).
Vietnamese customs closely scrutinizes declared values — always declare accurately to avoid holds.
SZ Express provides professional customs clearance support to help you prepare all required documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does shipping from Shenzhen to Vietnam take?
A: Air freight typically takes 3-7 business days. LCL sea freight takes around 15-25 days, and FCL around 15-20 days. Actual times may vary due to customs and holidays.
Q: What goods can be shipped via the China-Vietnam special line?
A: Clothing, electronics, daily goods, machinery parts, food (with permits), and more. Dangerous goods and counterfeit products are excluded.
Q: How are shipping costs calculated?
A: Air freight is charged by actual weight or volumetric weight (whichever is greater). Sea freight is charged by CBM or weight. Contact SZ Express for an instant quote.
Q: Does SZ Express offer door-to-door service?
A: Yes. We provide door-to-door service from pickup in Shenzhen to warehouse or doorstep delivery in Vietnam — a complete one-stop solution.
Q: How can I track my shipment?
A: After dispatch, we provide a tracking number. You can contact our customer service via WeChat or Telegram for real-time updates on your cargo status.
Ready to ship to Vietnam?
Contact SZ Express for a free quote. Our logistics consultants will respond within 24 hours.