Ship from Vietnam to Philippines: A Complete Shipping Guide

Introduction

Vietnam's eCommerce sector has seen remarkable growth in recent years, expanding by over 20% annually and becoming a key driver of international trade. For businesses looking to tap into new markets, cross-border shipping plays a vital role. If you're planning to ship from Vietnam to the Philippines, having a clear understanding of the process is essential for ensuring smooth deliveries.

From choosing the right shipping methods to managing costs and navigating customs, there’s a lot to consider. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make shipping from Vietnam to the Philippines hassle-free, including:

• The best methods to ship from Vietnam to the Philippines
• Cost and timeframe to for Vietnam-Philippines logistics
• Shipping from Vietnam to Philippines customs regulations
• And top shipping services from Vietnam to the Philippines

Let’s dive in and explore how to buy from Viet Nam ship to Philippines with ease!

Best Shipping Methods from Vietnam to the Philippines

When it comes to shipping from Vietnam to the Philippines, choosing the right method is crucial for your business. With several options available, it's important to understand the ins and outs of them to define what suits your needs best.

In this section, we’ll explore the top shipping methods, outlining their key features, costs, and delivery times to help you make informed decisions for seamless logistics.

Air freight from Vietnam to Philippines

For businesses that need a fast shipping solution, air freight is one of the quickest methods available to ship from Vietnam to Philippines. With shipments typically arriving within 1-3 days, air freight is ideal for high-value or time-sensitive products. Though it comes with a higher price tag, air freight is often preferred for smaller, lighter shipments that can justify the cost.

Vietnam to Philippines by sea (sea freight)

If you’re shipping large volumes of goods and are flexible with delivery times, sea freight is a cost-effective option. This method is typically divided into two options: Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL). Each option suits different needs, depending on the size and volume of your shipment:

• FCL is best when you need an entire container for your shipment. It’s suitable for high-volume shipments and offers better cost efficiency per unit of cargo. Transit times typically range from 15 to 25 days.
• LCL, on the other hand, allows you to share a container with other shippers. It’s perfect for smaller shipments, though the consolidation process can extend handling times slightly. Delivery also falls within the 15 to 25-day range, though expect some delays due to shared logistics.

Express shipping

For merchants shipping small packages and need them to arrive quickly, express shipping through services like DHL or FedEx is a solid option. With delivery times of 2 to 5 days, it strikes a balance between speed and cost. While not as fast as air freight, express shipping is more affordable and ideal for urgent shipments that don’t justify air freight prices.

Postal services

What about non-urgent deliveries or small, low-value goods? If that’s the case, postal services provide a budget-friendly option for shipping from Vietnam to the Philippines. Vietnam Post, for example, partners with international postal networks to ship parcels within 7 to 21 days. While slower than other methods, it remains a reliable choice for individuals and small businesses looking to save on shipping costs from Vietnam to Philippines.

How Much Does it Cost to Ship from Vietnam to Philippines?

Now that we’ve explored the different shipping methods available for transporting goods from Vietnam to the Philippines, it’s time to look at another key factor — cost. Understanding how much each shipping option might set you back will help you make the best choice for your business. Let’s dive into the costs involved in shipping from Vietnam to the Philippines, including what affects them and how you can optimize your budget.

Factors affecting Vietnam Philippines shipping cost

There are several variables impact the shipping cost from Vietnam to the Philippines, including:

• Package size and weight: Larger and heavier shipments are priced higher across all shipping methods. Smaller packages benefit more from air freight and express services, while bulk shipments can reduce costs with sea freight. For instance, a small electronics package might be more cost-effective through express shipping, whereas furniture or bulk goods should opt for sea freight.
• Shipping method: Your chosen method—air, sea (LCL or FCL), express shipping, or postal services—heavily influences the price. Air freight and express shipping offer faster delivery but are generally more expensive than sea freight.
• Delivery urgency: Urgent shipments that need to reach the Philippines within a few days will require faster shipping methods, like air freight or express services, which come at a higher cost. Businesses that can plan ahead and allow for longer transit times (e.g., sea freight) can save significantly.
• Currency conversion: Currency conversion plays a subtle but important role in calculating shipping costs, especially when dealing with international carriers or paying suppliers in different currencies. For example, if the Vietnamese dong weakens against the US dollar, the cost of international shipping from Vietnam (often billed in USD) can increase.
• Destination location: Shipping to urban areas in the Philippines is often less expensive than remote locations. Major ports like Manila generally offer lower costs due to better infrastructure, while rural areas require additional transit costs.

Average shipping costs from Vietnam to the Philippines

With these factors in mind, we break down the estimated costs based on different shipping options from Vietnam to Philippines.

Air freight

Air freight is one of the faster options to ship from Vietnam to Philippines, but it often comes with a higher price tag. For instance, the average cost for air freight can range from $5 to $15 per kilogram.

The shipping cost from Vietnam to Philippines by airways also fluctuates based on factors like weight and dimensions. For smaller shipments weighing about 50 kg, you might expect to pay around $300 to $500. However, keep in mind that fuel surcharges and security fees can increase these rates.

Sea freight

Sea freight is generally more cost-effective for larger shipments. For FCL shipments, the cost can vary based on container size. A 20-foot container might cost between $1,200 and $2,500 to ship, while a 40-foot container could range from $2,000 to $4,000.

LCL shipments, on the other hand, typically cost around $200 to $300 per cubic meter. Thus, for a shipment that occupies about 3 cubic meters, you can expect to pay approximately $600 to $900.

Express shipping

For businesses needing rapid delivery, express shipping is one of the fastest shipping options between Vietnam and the Philippines, albeit at a premium. Services from major carriers like DHL and FedEx can cost anywhere from $20 to $50 for small packages (up to 2 kg). For heavier shipments, the cost may rise to about $100 to $300, depending on the weight and dimensions.

Postal services

Postal services, such as those offered by Vietnam Post, provide a more economical option for smaller shipments. For certain goods, it can be the cheapest way to ship from Vietnam to the Philippines.

The cost for sending a package via standard international postal service typically ranges from $15 to $40 for parcels weighing up to 2 kg. For packages weighing around 5 kg, you might expect to pay between $30 and $60. While postal services are generally slower than express shipping, they can be a budget-friendly choice for non-urgent deliveries.

How Long Does Shipping Take from Vietnam to Philippines?

After exploring the various shipping costs associated with different methods of shipping from Vietnam to the Philippines, it’s essential to consider another crucial aspect: shipping times. Understanding how long your shipments will take to reach their destination can significantly impact your business operations and customer satisfaction.

Let’s take a closer look at the factors influencing shipping timelines and what you can expect for each method:

Factors affecting Vietnam Philippines shipping time

When estimating shipping time from Vietnam to Philippines; similar to the shipping costs, several key factors play a vital role:

• Package size and weight: Larger and heavier packages often require more handling time and may not be prioritized in the shipping queue. For instance, a heavy shipment might add 1 to 3 days to the overall transit time compared to lighter packages. If you're shipping a bulky item, consider planning for longer delivery times.
• Shipping method: The method you select to ship from Vietnam to Philippines is also major determinant of shipping speed. For example, air freight typically offers delivery within 1 to 3 days, while sea freight can take anywhere from 7 to 20 days, depending on whether it’s FCL or LCL. Choosing express shipping can reduce delivery times significantly, usually between 2 to 5 days, but it may come at a higher cost.
• Destinations: The final destination of your shipment can also influence delivery times. Shipments to urban areas generally have faster transit times, typically within 1 to 3 days for air freight and 7 to 14 days for sea freight. In contrast, rural or remote areas may add an extra 2 to 5 days due to increased handling and potential delivery challenges.
• Customs clearance: For international shipments, customs can introduce delays that might add 1 to 7 days to your shipping time, depending on the complexity of your shipment and whether all required documentation is in order. Ensuring that your paperwork is accurate and complete can help minimize these delays.
• Peak Seasons: Shipping during peak seasons, such as holidays or major sales events, can significantly affect transit times. During these periods, you might experience delays of 2 to 7 days or more, as carriers manage higher volumes of shipments.

Average shipping time from Vietnam to the Philippines

Understanding the factors that influence shipping times is essential for effective logistics planning. Now, let’s delve into the average shipping times associated with different methods for sending goods from Vietnam to the Philippines.

First, let’s take a look at our comparison table:

As you can see from the table, the estimated shipping times vary significantly depending on the method you choose.

• Air freight is the fastest shipping option between Vietnam and the Philippines, taking between 1 to 3 days. It’s ideal for urgent shipments or high-value items where time is of the essence.
• Slightly slower than air freight, express shipping usually takes 2 to 5 days. This method works well for small packages that need to arrive quickly.
• If you’re shipping large quantities, sea freight FCL shipping takes 7 to 14 days. This is a great choice for businesses looking to fill an entire container and optimize their logistics.
• For smaller shipments, sea freight LCL shipping typically requires 10 to 20 days. This method allows you to share container space, making it a more economical option.
• Finally, if you’re looking for the most budget-friendly solution, postal services offer a shipping time of 7 to 21 days. While it may take longer, this method is suitable for non-urgent deliveries.

Customs Regulations for Shipping from Vietnam to Philippines

Knowing the costs and time frame for shipping from Vietnam to the Philippines is just a small part of the equation. To ensure a smooth shipping experience, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with customs regulations. In the following line, we’ll give you a closer look at how to ship goods from Vietnam to the Philippines–the customs process and the associated duties and taxes you need to navigate.

Overview of the customs process

The customs process begins the moment your goods leave Vietnam and continues until they reach their final destination in the Philippines. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown

• Regardless of the shipping method, you need to prepare essential documents. This typically includes a commercial invoice detailing the items being shipped, a packing list, and either a bill of lading (for freight shipments) or a customs declaration form (for postal services and express shipments). Accurate documentation is crucial for compliance and ensuring your shipment passes through customs smoothly.
• Next, for freight shipments from Vietnam to Philippines, you must file an export declaration with Vietnamese customs before your goods can leave the country. This document informs customs authorities about the goods being exported and is essential for compliance. Express and postal shipments may have simplified declaration processes, often handled by the courier or postal service, often handled by the Vietnam shipping companies or postal service, which helps to streamline the shipping experience.
• Depending on the shipping method and value of goods, customs inspection may be required. Freight shipments typically undergo a thorough inspection, which can take 1 to 2 days. Express shipments may have expedited procedures, and postal services usually have more streamlined inspections, providing you with peace of mind during the shipping process.
• Once customs clearance is obtained, your shipment can depart Vietnam via your chosen shipping method—air, sea, or courier.
• Upon arrival at a Philippines port or airport, the customs process continues, but the approach varies by shipping method:
  • Freight from Vietnam to Philippines: Upon arrival, your goods will go through customs inspection and clearance. You'll need to file a customs declaration, providing all relevant details about your goods.
  • Express shipments: Companies like DHL or FedEx often handle customs clearance on your behalf. They submit the required documentation, and while your shipment may still be subject to inspection, the process is typically faster due to their established relationships with customs authorities.
  • Postal services: If using postal services, your shipment will be subject to customs regulations as well. The postal service typically files the necessary customs declaration, but processing can take longer compared to express shipping due to volume and manual handling.
• After submission and inspection, customs will either release your shipment for delivery or inform you of any issues. Proper documentation and compliance with regulations can expedite this process, allowing for timely delivery.

Import duties and taxes

As your shipment makes its way through the customs process, it's important to be aware of the financial responsibilities that come with importing goods into the Philippines. These include customs duties and various taxes that can impact your overall shipping costs.

• Customs duties: The rate of customs duties varies depending on the type of goods being imported and their declared value, referenced by the Harmonized System (HS) code. This code categorizes goods and is essential for assessing tariffs.
• Value-Added Tax (VAT): Most imported goods are subject to a Value-Added Tax (VAT) of 12%. This tax is calculated based on the total landed cost, which includes the product cost, shipping charges, and customs duties. Understanding VAT can help you budget accurately for your shipments.
• Additional fees: Depending on the nature of your goods, other fees may apply. Certain products, such as food items or electronics, may incur additional regulatory fees or require permits. Researching these potential costs beforehand helps avoid surprises and ensures compliance with Philippine regulations.

Shipping from Vietnam to the Philippines Tips

Now that we’ve explored the costs, timeframes, and customs regulations involved in shipping from Vietnam to the Philippines, let’s focus on practical ways to ensure your shipping process goes as smoothly as possible. Whether you’re trying to save on costs, speed up delivery, or avoid customs delays, the following tips will help you navigate these challenges more effectively.

#1. Choose the right shipping method

Your choice of shipping method can significantly impact both your costs and delivery times to ship from Vietnam to Philippines. If speed is your top priority, express shipping or air freight will serve you best. If time is crucial, express shipping or air freight is your go-to. However, if you’re shipping large volumes and cost-efficiency is a priority, sea freight—particularly FCL for bulk orders—is worth considering.

On the other hand, for smaller shipments, LCL may be a better fit. Assess your shipment’s size, urgency, and budget to strike a balance between time and cost when shipping from Vietnam to Philippines.

#2. Properly pack your goods

Beyond selecting the right method to ship from Vietnam to Philippines, ensuring your goods are well-packed can make all the difference in avoiding damage or delays during Vietnam Philippines shipments. Secure packaging is especially crucial for international shipping, where goods may be handled multiple times. Whether it’s fragile items needing extra padding or liquids requiring careful sealing, investing time in proper packaging pays off by reducing risks during transit.

#3. Understand and prepare customs documentation

Adding to that, accurate documentation is essential for clearing customs without issues. Make sure to include all necessary paperwork such as invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin. Double-check that details on all documents match, as discrepancies can lead to delays or even fines. This is especially important for the Philippines, where customs requirements are strict. For express and postal services, make sure to fill out the required forms properly to avoid delays on both ends of the shipment.

#4. Factor in local holidays and peak seasons

Shipping times don’t only depend on logistics—local holidays and peak seasons can throw off even the best-laid plans. Both countries observe national holidays, which may cause shipping delays. Vietnam’s Tet holiday or Christmas in the Philippines, for example, can mean slower customs processing and crowded shipping lanes. Planning your shipments around these peak times is essential to avoid unexpected delays.

#5. Optimize costs with volume discounts

If you’re about to ship from Vietnam to Philippines frequently or in large quantities, don’t overlook the potential for volume discounts. Many shipping companies offer reduced rates for bulk shipments, whether you’re sending goods via sea freight or with express services. Consolidating smaller shipments into one larger order, for instance, can help you tap into these savings and make the most of your shipping budget.

#6. Track shipments and communicate with carriers

Keeping an eye on your shipment throughout its journey can save you a lot of hassle. Most carriers now provide real-time tracking, so you can monitor progress and address any issues early. Staying in regular communication with your logistics provider also ensures you're promptly informed of any changes or unexpected delays.

#7. Opt for Reputable Shipping Companies

Finally, partnering with a well-established shipping company can give you peace of mind. Reliable carriers not only provide dependable delivery services but also offer robust tracking, responsive customer service, and smoother handling at customs. In the next section, we’ll dive into some of the top shipping companies you can trust for shipments from Vietnam to the Philippines.

Top Shipping Companies from Vietnam to the Philippines

With a clear understanding of the key factors and tips to optimize your shipping process, choosing the right partner becomes essential. Below, we present some of the top shipping providers that specialize in shipments from Vietnam to the Philippines, each with a unique set of services to meet various business needs

#1. EFEX

EFEX is a dedicated logistics partner for businesses looking to ship from Vietnam to Philippines. Specializing in efficient and reliable shipping solutions, EFEX ensures seamless logistics and timely delivery of goods, allowing you to focus on what you do best—marketing and sales.

What truly sets EFEX apart is its advanced order management system (OMS). This system connects seamlessly across multiple channels, enhancing operational efficiency at no extra cost. Alongside this, EFEX boasts a professional warehouse system that manages thousands of orders daily, ensuring meticulous care for each package. With extensive facilities in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, EFEX is well-equipped to handle diverse shipping demands, making it a preferred choice for businesses looking for tailored logistics solutions.

Key shipping services:

• Advanced Order Management System (OMS) connecting multiple channels
• Professional warehouse system handling thousands of orders daily
• Comprehensive tracking and reporting tools
• Tailored micro-warehouse model for goods
• 100% free warranty on all goods.

#2. Evergreen Marine Corporation

Building on the theme of reliability, Evergreen Marine Corporation is a leading global shipping line specializing in container shipping and logistics services. Known for its robust fleet and extensive network, Evergreen offers dependable sea freight solutions for businesses looking to ship from Vietnam to Philippines. With various options, including both FCL and LCL shipping, Evergreen ensures flexibility based on your shipment size.

Moreover, their comprehensive logistics services extend beyond shipping, incorporating inland transport and customs clearance to make the entire process smoother. With their advanced tracking systems, you can stay updated on your shipment's status, providing peace of mind throughout the journey.

Key shipping services:

• FCL & LCL shipping
• Comprehensive logistics services, including inland transport and customs clearance
• Advanced tracking systems for real-time updates

#3. CMA CGM

In the list for best shipping companies from Vietnam to Philippines, CMA CGM is definitely the largest container shipping provider. Recognized for its innovative solutions and commitment to customer service, CMA CGM offers a wide array of services tailored for businesses that need to ship goods from Vietnam to the Philippines. Their options include both FCL and LCL shipping, providing businesses with flexibility depending on their unique requirements.

In addition, CMA CGM supports intermodal transportation, allowing for seamless connections between various transport modes. Their advanced tracking systems and online booking options further simplify the shipping process, making it convenient for businesses to manage their logistics.

Key shipping services:

• Intermodal transportation for seamless connections between transport modes
• Advanced tracking systems and online booking options
• Customs clearance services to navigate regulatory requirements smoothly

#4. DHL

DHL also deserves mention as a major player in the shipping industry, well-regarded for its express courier services. With a global footprint, DHL provides a reliable option for businesses looking to ship smaller packages quickly from Vietnam to the Philippines. Their express shipping services are particularly appealing for time-sensitive shipments, thanks to their advanced logistics technology and dedicated customer support.

What sets DHL apart is its commitment to providing door-to-door delivery for hassle-free shipping. This convenience, combined with real-time tracking for complete transparency, allows businesses to stay informed every step of the way. Moreover, their customized shipping solutions cater to the unique needs of each customer, further enhancing the shipping experience.

Key shipping services:

• Door-to-door delivery for hassle-free shipping
• Real-time tracking for complete transparency
• Customized shipping solutions based on customer needs

#5. UPS

Lastly, UPS is a well-established logistics provider known for its reliable service and extensive network. Shipping with UPS from Vietnam to the Philippines allows businesses to benefit from their expertise in both air and sea freight. With a range of shipping options, including express and standard services, UPS proves to be a versatile choice for various shipping needs.

Their express and standard shipping options ensure that businesses can select the service that best fits their timeline and budget. Additionally, UPS offers robust tracking capabilities for real-time updates and comprehensive customs clearance services, making the entire shipping process smoother for their clients.

Key shipping services:

• Express and standard shipping options
• Robust tracking capabilities for real-time updates
• Comprehensive customs clearance services

Ship from Vietnam to Philippines: FAQs

How much is shipping from Vietnam to the Philippines?

When shipping from Vietnam to the Philippines, you have several options to consider: sea freight for cost-effective bulk shipments, air freight for swift deliveries, express courier services for reliable speed, and postal services for smaller, affordable packages.

Each method caters to different needs and (also) costs different prices and timeframe. If you have yet to find the right balance between cost and delivery speed for your specific shipment, refer to our comprehensive guidelines for more details.

Why is shipping to Philippines so expensive?

Shipping to the Philippines can be costly due to several factors. These include geographical challenges, high freight rates for smaller shipments, and varying import duties and taxes. Additionally, shipping distances and logistics infrastructure can add to the overall expense, particularly for remote areas where access is more challenging.

If that's the case, you should go with a reputable shipping service provider like EFEX for streamlined services at affordable prices.

What is the fastest way to ship to the Philippines?

The fastest way to ship from Vietnam to Philippines is through air freight or express courier services. These methods prioritize speed and can deliver packages within 1-5 business days, depending on the specific service and origin.

What company is best to ship to Philippines?

There is one-size-fits-all answer to this question since the choice largely depends on your specific requirements. EFEX, for example, excels with its efficient logistics and advanced order management system (OMS), making it a top choice for shipping from Vietnam to the Philippines. For urgent shipments, DHL offers fast and reliable express services, while Evergreen is ideal for those needing dependable sea freight solutions.

Conclusion

That’s a wrap on everything you need to know if you're about to ship from Vietnam to Philippines! From choosing the right shipping methods—like sea or air freight—to understanding the shipping timeframes, costs, and customs regulations, we’ve covered all the essential steps. With practical tips, you can optimize your shipping process for efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

And if you’d rather skip the hassle and ensure a smooth shipping process, let EFEX handle it for you! With our advanced order management system, extensive warehouse network, and professional logistics team, EFEX is your trusted partner for seamless, reliable shipping from Vietnam to the Philippines. Focus on growing your business, and let us handle the rest!