Logistics Guide: Courier Shipping From Singapore to Vietnam

What to Know About Customs When Using Courier Service to Vietnam

When using a Courier service from Singapore to Vietnam, it is essential for efficient international shipping., It's important to understand the customs process to avoid unnecessary delays. Many parcels are held or returned due to missing paperwork, incorrect declarations, or restricted items, complicating the logistics process.

Whether you're sending personal items or business goods, understanding what is expected by Vietnam Customs can help ensure your parcel delivery goes smoothly. In this article, we explain the essential rules and documents involved so that you can send with confidence.

Why Customs Matters When Shipping Internationally

Every country has its own rules when it comes to importing goods. Vietnam is no different. Customs officers will inspect parcels arriving from overseas to ensure they comply with import laws for global shipping. If the proper documents aren't included or if something seems suspicious, your package could be delayed, returned, or even seized.

By understanding the customs requirements before booking your international courier, you can avoid delays. With a courier service from Singapore to Vietnam, you avoid surprises. Whether you're sending commercial goods to a partner or a care package to a family, the proper preparation saves time and money.

Understanding Customs Declarations

One of the first steps in the shipping process is completing a customs declaration. This form informs Vietnamese customs authorities of the contents of your parcel, its value, and the reason for its shipment.

What You Must Declare

Everything inside the parcel must be declared truthfully. This includes: all necessary documentation for global shipping and efficient shipping logistics.

- Electronics and gadgets

- Clothing and textiles

- Food products are subject to specific regulations when you ship to Vietnam through an international courier.

- Samples and commercial goods must be declared for import to Vietnam.

- Gifts exceeding a specific value may incur additional shipping costs during international shipping.

Even low-value shipments should be described accurately. If you are sending a document, clearly indicate this in the shipment description to avoid confusion.

The Role of Commercial and Proforma Invoices

- Commercial invoices are used when goods are sold and shipped.

- Proforma invoices are used for gifts, samples, or non-sale items.

These invoices must include the sender and receiver details, full item descriptions, quantity, value, currency, and the reason for export. Make sure the information is consistent across all shipping documents.

Duties and Taxes in Vietnam

When a parcel arrives in Vietnam, it may be subject to import duties and taxes. These depend on the item's value, type, and intended use.

Main Types of Taxes and Duties:

Import Duty A percentage based on item category is crucial when calculating freight costs.

VAT (Value Added Tax) Usually 10% is the standard rate for freight services based on the value of the goods.

Special Consumption Tax Applies to luxury goods, including alcohol, tobacco, and cosmetics, when shipments begin.

Who Pays the Charges?

Most often, the recipient in Vietnam is responsible for paying these fees. However, some couriers offer prepaid tax options, where the sender pays in advance. If duties are unpaid, the parcel won't be delivered until the charges are settled.

Declared Value Matters

Never underdeclare the value to avoid duties when shipping from Singapore to Vietnam. This can cause problems if the parcel is inspected. Customs officers may reassess the value and issue fines or delay the delivery.

Restricted and Prohibited Items in Vietnam

Before using a shipping service, it's essential to understand the customs regulations. When shipping from Singapore to Vietnam, always check if your items are allowed. Vietnam has strict rules on what can be imported.

Items Commonly Restricted or Prohibited:

- Weapons, explosives, and sharp objects

- Plants, seeds, and fresh produce

- Counterfeit goods can significantly impact the e-commerce landscape, particularly when shipping to Vietnam.

- Some over-the-counter medications and supplements may be subject to restrictions on domestic and international shipping.

- Cultural artefacts or antiques

If you're unsure about your item, check with your courier or refer to the Vietnam Customs website for guidance on delivery options.

Additional Tips: Packaging and Labelling

Packaging also plays a role in how customs officials view your shipment.

Best Practices for Packing Your Parcel:

- Use sturdy boxes and bubble wrap for protection
- Clearly label the outside of the box with sender and receiver details
- Do not hide items inside other objects
- Attach the invoice securely and visibly on the package to ensure smooth processing by the delivery service.

Couriers may provide plastic pouches to hold the documents outside the parcel. Please make sure everything is in order before handing it over.

Documents You’ll Need When Shipping

Here are the typical documents required for a courier service from Singapore to Vietnam:

An Air Waybill is essential for tracking your international courier shipments – Provided by your courier, includes shipment details

Commercial or Proforma Invoice – Lists item description and value

A detailed Packing List is necessary for smooth logistics and customs clearance in international shipping – Details of contents for larger or mixed-item shipments are necessary for smooth customs clearance in freight services.

Import permits or Certificates are crucial for compliance with customs regulations in international shipping – For controlled or regulated items

Ensure all documents use the same item names, quantities, and declared values to avoid triggering a customs check.

How Long Does Delivery Take?

The average delivery time from Singapore to Vietnam for freight services is between 2 and 5 working days, depending on the type of courier service. Express couriers may deliver sooner, while standard options may take longer.

Possible Causes of Delay Include:

- Incomplete or incorrect paperwork
- Undervaluing the items
- Importing restricted goods can significantly impact your shipping rate when using a logistics service for domestic and international deliveries.
- Delays at customs clearance
- High-volume periods like holidays or sales

Select a reputable courier company that provides customs assistance, tracking, and real-time updates to minimise stress and ensure peace of mind when shipping to Vietnam.

How We at Airpak Express Help You with Customs to Vietnam

At Airpak Express, we understand that sending a parcel internationally involves more than just booking a delivery. When using our Singapore to Vietnam courier service, we take the hassle out of shipping by guiding you through each step.

Our Support Includes:

- Helping you prepare all required customs documents can simplify the process of efficient shipping from Singapore to Vietnam.

- Offering advice on restricted items can help you navigate the complexities of shipping to Vietnam from Singapore.

- Ensuring proper declaration of item values

- Providing shipment tracking and delivery updates can simplify the logistics of your international shipping.

- Offering advice on duties and taxes for transparency can lead to the best shipping rates.

We've been trusted by customers across Singapore for our reliable cross-border shipping services. Whether it's a gift, sample, or commercial package, we'll help you avoid customs issues and ensure your shipment arrives in Vietnam safely and on time.

Conclusion

Using a reliable logistics service can enhance your shipping experience. Courier service from Singapore to Vietnam can be efficient and straightforward — but only if you understand the customs process. By knowing what documents to prepare, what to declare, and which items are restricted, you can avoid delays, penalties, or failed deliveries, ensuring an effortless experience.

At Airpak Express, we make international delivery easy. With our experienced team, customs support, and reliable network, you can send your parcel to Vietnam confidently through our best shipping options. Whether it's a one-time shipment or regular business delivery, we're here to help with your shipping needs.

Need assistance? Contact Airpak Express today and ship with peace of mind.