How To Export From Vietnam To The United States // Regulations And Tariffs When Importing To The USA
Vietnam has solidified its position as one of the United States’ key trading partners, now ranking as the 10th-largest supplier and exporting nearly $114 billion in goods to the U.S. in 2023. In 2024, the bilateral goods trade volume reached approximately $149.6 billion, with $136.6 billion in U.S. imports from Vietnam—a 19% increase over the previous year—and $13.1 billion in American exports to Vietnam. However, the ongoing U.S.–China trade war and newly announced 2025 tariffs on Vietnamese goods are reshaping this landscape, prompting exporters to rethink their strategies and Vietnam to diversify its export markets.
With a nominal GDP of nearly $466 billion in 2024 and projected GDP growth of 5.8% for 2025, Vietnam continues to expand its manufacturing and logistics capabilities. The country’s active participation in major trade agreements, paired with ongoing infrastructure improvements, makes exporting to the U.S. increasingly attractive. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to tap into Vietnam’s robust export ecosystem, covering tariff implications, shipping logistics, compliance requirements, and strategic market positioning, to help your business thrive in an evolving trade environment and maintain a resilient supply chain.
If you need a sourcing company based in Vietnam, contact the Cosmo Sourcing team.
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How To Export From Vietnam To The US
The shipping infrastructure between Vietnam and the US is highly developed, and investors can choose between air and ocean freight for most goods. The costs of exporting to the US from Vietnam are similar to those of exporting from China, due to its strategic location on the Pacific Ocean and the well-developed port infrastructure. Your goods can arrive in the United States within a few weeks (or days for air freight). The most important thing to ensure is that you work with trustworthy suppliers who can provide the necessary documentation for a smooth import once the goods reach the US. We can help you connect with the top suppliers in Vietnam.
Vietnam exported nearly $290 billion in 2018, and this figure continues to rise. Nearly one in five shipments from Vietnam is destined for the United States. We can help you calculate the cost of your import taxes based on the total value of the merchandise and the local export taxes. We can also assist you in arranging the most affordable transportation from your factory to any location in the United States.
Shipping Costs To The US
The average price for shipping goods from Vietnam to the United States varies significantly based on your chosen method. The cheapest method is LCL cargo, while the most expensive is a dedicated 40-foot container. Here’s a breakdown of the average prices you can expect:
A fully dedicated FCL container (40’) costs $3,500.
Full dedicated FCL container (20’): $2,000.
The LCL load (400 lbs.) and other cargo cost $1,000.
Airfreight (400 lbs.): $2,100.
Express shipping via FedEx/DHL (up to 100 lbs.): $600.
Note: Shipping charges may increase during certain seasons. For instance, the peak season is October and November, when most shopping outlets offer Black Friday deals and other holiday promotions. This is when shipping charges are the highest.
Export Taxes From Vietnam To The US
There are certain export taxes for goods from Vietnam. Most goods are not subject to export taxes, but this may depend on the type of goods you’re manufacturing. The export taxes range from 0% to 45%, depending on the category of goods. These taxes are paid directly to the Vietnamese government at customs. Vietnamese customs agents inspect merchandise departing from the country to ensure that the supplier has paid all taxes and duties, and that the forwarding agent has paid these taxes.
To ship your product, you need the following documents:
List of products being shipped.
Bill of lading (for ocean freight).
Labeling.
The supplier and the forwarding company can label and categorize your goods for easy shipping. Vietnamese manufacturers employ “Customs Clearance” agents who specialize in assembling these documents. The total charge is identical to what you would pay to ship from China to the US.
Calculate Import Taxes
The next step is to calculate the total import taxes you’ll have to pay once your goods end up in the US. US Customs does not apply “anti-competitive” tariffs on Vietnamese goods (unlike China), which is why many manufacturers have moved to Vietnam.
The Harmonized Tariff Schedule is a document that specifies individual taxes for different categories of goods being imported into the US. For example, importing one chicken from Vietnam could cost 9 cents. Microphones and other devices could be 0% (duty-free). The tax on clothing is usually 9% of the total value.
Note: Expect a VAT surcharge. Check the Customs and Border Protection website to calculate how much you’ll owe in advance.
Special Regulations For Items
Most items imported from Vietnam to the United States are subject to a tariff ranging from 0% to 25%, depending on their category. However, certain items cannot be exported from Vietnam or require special export permissions.
For example, it is not possible to import petroleum and oil products from Vietnam to the US. This is because the Vietnamese government bans their export. Additionally, chemicals and explosives will require special licenses before you’re allowed to export them. Contact us to determine if the category of items you wish to import into the US requires special permits before arranging to ship with your forwarder.
How To Look Up Regulations For Importing To The US
The US Customs and Border Protection Agency ensures that foreign products imported from Vietnam comply with US health and sanitary standards. In addition, US Customs agents exercise special care when handling sensitive products, including meat, eggs, fish, live animals, weapons, chemicals, and other potentially hazardous materials.
Due to non-compliance, thousands of exporters and resellers who started manufacturing in Vietnam found their goods rejected by US Customs at their port of entry. Suppose you want to familiarize yourself with the regulations in your manufacturing sector. In that case, this guide will showcase the most important resources to help you do your research. We will also explain basic import requirements based on our experience successfully shipping thousands of products from Vietnam to the United States.
Most entrepreneurs we work with have imported for years and never had to check for product compliance. The importation process is straightforward for most generic products, such as footwear and textiles. Still, for certain products, it's essential to check compliance in advance, as mistakes can be costly.
Resources For Looking Up Regulations
The following is a list of websites and resources to check US regulations in your field. Additionally, the websites listed below can help you learn the basics of importing products to the US.
https://www.nist.gov/standardsgov/compliance-faqs-packaging-and-labeling-us
https://www.cbp.gov/trade/rulings/informed-compliance-publications
Note: There isn’t a single compliance check that applies to all imports. US Customs treats each shipment on a case-by-case basis, and it’s only a matter of luck regarding whether you’ll be scrutinized. Most customs agents only check basic documents such as the country-of-origin labels and the bill of lading. However, they can halt your shipment and demand additional evidence if they find any issues.
The real risk is not bypassing US customs, but facing legal charges within the United States if you import substandard products that harm citizens. Ensure the products you’re importing are safe and sanitary.
Vietnamese Origin Labels
The main difference between importing to the US and other regions, such as Europe, is that country of origin labels are mandatory, not optional. It would be helpful if you marked each shipment with the exact location where the product was manufactured and assembled. For example, if you purchased your parts from China but manufactured them in your Vietnamese plant, the label must say it was “Made in Vietnam.” This is why origin labels are standard on all products in the US, and the “Made in China” label is a common one.
If you want to circumvent this requirement, you can manufacture part of the product in the United States and label it as “Made in the USA.” However, you must have an actual factory assembling part of the product on US soil, and you can’t simply re-package the product at home. For the most part, you must have at least 70% of the production by value done in the country to qualify for country of origin requirements. Fraudulently mislabeling the country of origin is a federal offense and can result in imprisonment and substantial fines. We advise against doing this.
Regulations On Textiles & Footwear
Textiles and footwear are Vietnam’s largest exports to the United States, accounting for nearly 50% of all shipments. The textile industry in Vietnam generates approximately $35 billion annually, with textile factories located nationwide. The duty tariff on textiles will range based on the material. The most important thing you need to ensure when importing textiles to the US is that they’re labeled correctly. All textiles imported must comply with OTEXA labeling requirements.
It would be best to label each t-shirt you manufacture with the composition material. Here are some examples of correctly labeled goods based on OTEXA standards:
100% Cotton T-shirt.
Care instructions (I.e., don’t wash x with y).
“Made in Vietnam” label.
Instructions are written in the English language.
To ensure these requirements are met, US Customs will have no problem allowing you to import your textiles into the US. The main problem is pointing out to your manufacturer that this needs to be done. Suppose you want to avoid getting in trouble. In that case, we can put you in touch with experienced manufacturers who will accurately label your textiles. We can help you print according to US import regulations and OTEXA labeling standards.
Regulations On Electronics
Electronics are subject to additional scrutiny by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). As a result, they must meet the minimum safety standards regarding wireless communication. For example, suppose you import electronics such as laptops, phones, computer parts, AirPods, etc... In that case, you should consider FCC regulations to ensure your product is compliant.
Depending on the product, it may need to carry the FCC approval mark. Additionally, your company may want to adhere to optional safety standards. Electronics are hazardous in litigation because they can inflame or cause damage. You should ensure the manufacturer you’re working with in Vietnam has high safety standards.
Regulations On Chemicals & Metals
Chemicals and heavy metals are commonly imported from Vietnam to the US. Depending on the product you’re importing, you may need to deal with multiple government agencies. For instance, most chemical substances are subject to regulation by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). CPSIA regulates children’s products.
Note: You must also comply with state-level regulations, such as California Proposition 65 (requiring cancer warning labels in California). We recommend testing your product to determine if it’s compliant and/or contains high amounts of hazardous substances, such as lead and cadmium.
Final thoughts on Regulations importing into the United States
The bottom line is that no single regulatory body imposes identical standards on all products imported from Vietnam to the US. However, the main requirement is that they’re labeled adequately and don’t harm Americans.
If you’re importing potentially harmful products, you not only have to deal with government agencies like CPSC prosecuting you, but you’ll eventually be faced with lawsuits by end customers. The bottom line is that importing from Vietnam to the US is a gray area. While most products are straightforward and can be imported without looking into the regulations too much, you should still be aware of the general requirements in your sector in case you run into problems and customs agents demand extra documentation.
How To Find Taxes And Duties For Importing To The US
Import tariffs are owed when you import products valued at over $2,500 to the United States. Our guide will help you find the matching HS codes for each imported product to check the tariffs. This way, you can be prepared in advance. US Customs uses World Customs Organization (WCO) trade codes, which are internationally recognized, to impose different tariffs based on the product. For example, certain Vietnamese products are duty-free, while others are subject to duties of up to 40%. Below, you’ll find resources to research the HS code database and find the matching code for your product. Once you have the code, you can input it into the database and determine how much you owe.
US Customs uses a 10-digit code for each product you import from Vietnam. This is referred to as the “Schedule B number.” The HS number (your product code) is the same internationally. You can find your HS number and then locate the Schedule B number. These codes are assigned to every product, ranging from shoes to paper clips. The Foreign Trade Division of the US Census Bureau manages them.
Top Resources For Looking Up Taxes & Import Duties
HS Code Database: https://www.datamyne.com/hts/57
Tariff Database: https://dataweb.usitc.gov/tariff/database
Harmonized Tariff Database (for all products): https://hts.usitc.gov/current
Automated Report System (for shipments above $2500 in value): https://www.trade.gov/filing-your-export-shipments-through-automated-export-system-aes
US Customs & Border Protection: https://www.cbp.gov/
Note: If you can’t find a matching HS code based on the database above, Google “Product + HS code” directly. For example, “T-shirt HS code,” and you’ll find your HS code. You can then input it into the tariff search database.
Tariffs For Importing Foreign Products To The US
Free trade agreements facilitate the easy shipping of goods from Vietnam to the US. Generally, each shipment over $2,500 must be reported to the AES system in advance (before the shipment departs from Vietnam). The most important part is calculating your import taxes accurately and ensuring the documentation is correct. The only way you can do this is to find the HS code and input it into the databases listed above. The taxes can vary significantly based on the materials. Here’s an example of how taxes on t-shirts can vary:
Bicycles have an 11% tariff. To import $20,000 worth of bicycles, prepare $2,100 for import tariffs.
Cotton t-shirts are subject to a 16% tariff. To import $20,000 worth of cotton shirts, prepare an additional $3,200 for import tariffs.
Polyester t-shirts are subject to a 32% tariff. To import $20,000 worth of polyester t-shirts, you’ll need to set aside $6,400.
Pro Tip: We can help you find low-cost tariffs in every industry to help you minimize your expenses. We’re an American team operating out of Vietnam, and we know how to lower your import rates for all popular goods.
The bottom line is that you need to obtain the Harmonized System (HS) code for your product and look up the Harmonized Tariff System (HTS) for the specific HS code of the product you’re importing. For instance, the code for t-shirts is 6109, and the code for laptops is 8471. Certain products are duty-free, while the average tariff is 15-20% (similar to Europe).
HS VS. HTS Codes: What Is The Difference?
There are two types of codes you’ll deal with when you’re importing products to the US: HS codes and HTS codes. Every experienced importer can easily name their product codes. The main difference is that the HS code has six digits, and the HTS code has 7-10 digits. In addition, the first four digits indicate the international code for the product (this is the same in the United States and internationally).
The other codes indicate the country of origin. These codes are primarily needed to determine the tariffs you must pay upon import. Still, the US government also uses them to keep track of trade statistics between different countries. The US government tracks product value, weight, quantity, category, and other relevant information to remain competitive in the global market.
This database synchronizes the entire Harmonized Tariff Schedule for imports to the US. Similar import taxes apply from Vietnam as from all other countries except for China, which is subject to special tariffs. Additionally, the Harmonized Tariff Schedule lists individual import taxes for over 42,000 products that can be imported to the US without special permission or license requirements.
Using this database, you can narrow down codes of 4, 6, 8, or 10 digits for your specific product category. For example, the code for Tricycles is 95030000. Suppose you input this code into the tariff database. In that case, you can find the tariffs for tricycles imported from Vietnam to the US.
Pro Tip: Call the US Customs and Border Protection agency to inquire about individual tariffs. They can help you find out how much you’ll owe based on the total value of your merchandise.
Why You Need The HS Code To Ship From Vietnam
The HS code is needed for every step of the shipping process. Once you’ve arranged a shipment with a forwarder in Vietnam and prepared the necessary documentation, such as certificates of origin and invoices, you’ll need the specific code to facilitate the import process once the goods reach the US. Here’s what an HS code is used for in practical terms:
Categorizing goods for shipment from the Vietnamese port.
Completing necessary forms, such as instruction letters, commercial invoices, and certificates.
Sending reports to the AES (Automated Export System) is required for all shipments exceeding $2,500 in advance.
Calculating import duties in advance.
Ensure compliance with US laws and regulations.
Shipping Costs Estimates From Vietnam To The US
The total shipping cost (including tariffs) will vary based on the size of the cargo, the means of transportation, and the value of the merchandise. For example, the most profitable mode of transportation from Vietnam is ocean freight. The average 40’ container will cost $3,500 to ship, arriving in 4 weeks.
Here are some examples of shipping + tariff estimates for popular products:
A 40-foot container full of electric bicycles, valued at a total of $20,000. Adding $3,500 for shipping (peak season) and $2,100 for import tariffs brings the total to $25,600.
20’ container full of cotton t-shirts with a total value of $10,000. Adding $1,500 for shipping (peak season) and $1,600 for import tariffs brings the total to $13,100.
Cosmo Sourcing // Your Trusted Partner In Vietnam
If you want to source from Vietnam, contact the Cosmo Sourcing team; we have been helping clients source from Vietnam since 2014. Cosmo Sourcing has the skills and the team to find you the best supplier possible. We are also established in China and are among the few companies that can source suppliers in both China and Vietnam. Pick the one you think is best.
Our Vietnam Sourcing services enable you to access new manufacturers that are not available in China, allowing you to avoid Tariffs. Our services are designed to take your idea, turn it into a product, and ship it to its final destination. Cosmo can handle everything from creating a product spec sheet to validating, sourcing, ordering, evaluating samples, arranging inspections, finding freight forwarders, ensuring quality assurance, negotiating, and shipping. We aim to handle every single step of your business in Vietnam for you.
If you start a new business, finding products and suppliers for your products is one of many things you need to handle. Our services are designed to handle every aspect of your business in China and Vietnam, allowing you to focus on growing your own business.
We have helped clients from Fortune 500 companies, brick-and-mortar stores, FBA sellers, and brand-new businesses. So don’t hesitate to contact us and let us know how we can help you.