The Best Choices for International Shipping from Vietnam to the United States

Vietnam and the United States share a strong trade and transportation relationship. The increasing trade activities between the two countries have created a growing demand for international shipping services. In this article, we will explore the best choices for international shipping from Vietnam to the United States, including sea freight, air freight, and rail transportation.

I. International Shipping by Sea

Shipping goods by sea is one of the most common and cost-effective methods to send cargo from Vietnam to the United States. Here are some of the top choices:

Ocean Freight Services:

Major shipping lines like Maersk, MSC, and CMA CGM offer sea freight services from ports in Ho Chi Minh City and Hai Phong to U.S. ports such as Long Beach, Los Angeles, and New York. This is a great option for shipping large volumes and heavy cargo.

1. Maersk

Phone All offices: 28 56785803

• Company Overview: Maersk is one of the largest and most prominent shipping companies in the world. Headquartered in Denmark, it operates a vast fleet of container vessels and provides comprehensive logistics solutions.
• Services from Vietnam: Maersk offers sea freight services from major Vietnamese ports, including Ho Chi Minh City and Hai Phong, to several U.S. ports along the West Coast and East Coast.
• Container Options: Maersk provides various container options to accommodate different types of cargo, including standard dry containers, refrigerated containers (reefers), and special equipment for oversized or heavy cargo.
• Advantages: Maersk is known for its extensive global network, reliability, and advanced technology solutions. It offers end-to-end visibility for shippers, enabling them to track their cargo throughout the journey.

2. MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company)

Phone All offices: 2836363939

• Company Overview: MSC is another major player in the global shipping industry. It is headquartered in Switzerland and operates one of the largest container fleets in the world.
• Services from Vietnam: MSC offers sea freight services from Vietnamese ports, including Ho Chi Minh City and Hai Phong, to various U.S. ports, including those in California and the East Coast.
• Transshipment Hubs: MSC operates transshipment hubs in strategic locations, facilitating the transfer of cargo between vessels. This can be advantageous for shippers with specific routing requirements.
• Eco-Friendly Initiatives: MSC has been actively involved in sustainability efforts, such as using cleaner-burning fuels and investing in energy-efficient vessels.

3. CMA CGM

Phone All offices: (24) 3933 5600

• Company Overview: CMA CGM is a French container transportation and shipping company with a global presence. It is recognized for its focus on innovation and sustainability.
• Services from Vietnam: CMA CGM provides sea freight services from Vietnamese ports, with a strong presence in Ho Chi Minh City and Hai Phong, to various U.S. ports on both coasts.
• Eco-Friendly Solutions: CMA CGM has invested in eco-friendly technologies, including the use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a cleaner fuel option for some of its vessels.
• Digital Solutions: The company offers digital tools and platforms that enable shippers to manage bookings, track cargo, and access documentation conveniently.

Less-Than-Container Load (LCL) Services:

For small and medium-sized businesses or small shipments, LCL services might be the best option. Shipping companies like FedEx and UPS provide LCL services, allowing you to send cargo through their international sea freight services.

1. FedEx LCL Services:

Phone All offices: 1.800.463.3339

• FedEx Freight® Economy: FedEx offers LCL services for shipments within North America. With FedEx Freight® Economy, businesses can ship partial truckloads economically. This service is suitable for domestic freight shipping, especially for cargo that doesn’t fill an entire truck.
• FedEx International DirectDistribution®: For international LCL shipping, FedEx provides the International DirectDistribution® service. It allows businesses to consolidate international shipments into a single container, providing cost savings and efficient transportation.
• Benefits of FedEx LCL Services: FedEx’s LCL services offer businesses the convenience of working with a well-established logistics provider. They provide reliability, tracking, and extensive coverage for both domestic and international LCL shipments.

2. UPS LCL Services:

Phone All offices: 1-800-782-7892

• UPS Worldwide LCL: UPS offers LCL services on a global scale through UPS Worldwide LCL. This service is designed for international shipping, allowing businesses to consolidate multiple small shipments into one container. UPS manages the entire process, from pickup to delivery at the destination port.
• Benefits of UPS LCL Services: UPS provides comprehensive LCL solutions that cater to a wide range of industries. Their global network ensures that shipments reach various international destinations efficiently and cost-effectively.

Multinational Shipping Platforms:

There are several multinational shipping platforms like Flexport and ShipBob that can search for sea freight options from various providers and offer competitive pricing.

1. Flexport:

Phone All offices: +31 (20) 888 5740

Flexport is a modern international freight forwarder and customs brokerage company that leverages technology to streamline the global shipping process. Founded in 2013, Flexport has disrupted the traditional freight forwarding industry by offering an innovative, tech-driven approach to logistics.

Advantages of Flexport:

• Transparency: Flexport’s technology-driven approach provides unparalleled transparency, helping businesses make informed decisions about their supply chain.
• Customization: The platform offers customizable solutions to meet the unique needs of different industries and businesses.
• Efficiency: By simplifying and automating various aspects of logistics, Flexport helps businesses save time and reduce operational costs.
• Global Network: Flexport’s extensive global network covers major trade routes and destinations, making it an ideal choice for businesses with international shipping needs.

2. ShipBob:

Phone All offices: 1-312-313-1104

ShipBob is a fulfillment and logistics platform designed to help e-commerce businesses manage their order fulfillment and shipping processes. Founded in 2014, ShipBob focuses on providing fast and affordable shipping solutions to online retailers.

Advantages of ShipBob:

• Fast Shipping: ShipBob’s strategically located fulfillment centers enable businesses to offer fast and affordable shipping options to customers.
• Scalability: The platform is designed to grow with businesses, making it suitable for startups and established e-commerce brands alike.
• Automation: ShipBob automates many aspects of order fulfillment, reducing the risk of errors and improving efficiency.
• Analytics: ShipBob provides data and analytics to help businesses make data-driven decisions about their logistics and inventory management.

Short Sea Shipping:

For ports located near the U.S. East Coast, such as New York and Norfolk, you can explore short sea shipping options. This can help save time and reduce shipping costs for goods coming from East Asia.

When considering international shipping by sea, it’s essential for shippers to evaluate the specific services, routes, and capabilities offered by shipping lines like Maersk, MSC, and CMA CGM. By choosing the right partner, shippers can ensure the efficient and reliable transport of their cargo from Vietnam to the United States.

II. International Shipping by Air

If you need to send cargo to the United States quickly and have time constraints, air freight can be the best choice. Here are some top options:

Major Airlines in Air Freight Services from Vietnam to the U.S.:

When it comes to international air freight services from Vietnam to the United States, several major airlines play a pivotal role in ensuring efficient and timely cargo transportation. These airlines offer a range of speed options to cater to diverse shipping needs, from expedited deliveries to more cost-effective solutions. Let’s delve into the specifics of these major airlines:

1. FedEx:

Overview: FedEx is a globally renowned logistics and courier delivery company. It operates a substantial international air cargo network and is known for its commitment to fast and reliable shipping services.

Air Freight Services: FedEx provides various air freight services from Vietnam to the U.S., including:

• International Priority Freight: This service offers the fastest transit times, ensuring timely deliveries.
• International Economy Freight: A more economical option with slightly longer transit times.

2. UPS (United Parcel Service):

Overview: UPS is one of the world’s largest and most recognized package delivery and supply chain management companies. It operates an extensive global air cargo network.

Air Freight Services: UPS offers air freight services that include:

• UPS Worldwide Express Freight: A high-speed service for urgent shipments.
• UPS Worldwide Saver: A cost-effective option with competitive transit times.

3. DHL:

Phone Number: +44 (0) 2476937770 DHL Parcel UK

Overview: DHL is a well-known global logistics company that specializes in international shipping and courier services. It boasts a vast air and ground network.

Air Freight Services: DHL’s air freight services from Vietnam to the U.S. encompass:

• DHL Airfreight Plus: A premium service for time-sensitive shipments.
• DHL Airfreight: An economical choice for less urgent cargo.

4. Emirates SkyCargo:

Phone Number: +971-56-687-2966.

Overview: Emirates SkyCargo is the air freight division of Emirates, one of the largest and most reputable airlines globally. It operates a modern and efficient air cargo fleet.

Air Freight Services: Emirates SkyCargo offers air freight services with a focus on quality and speed, including:

• SkyCargo Premium: For express deliveries with minimal transit times.
• SkyCargo Emirates Economy: A more cost-effective option with competitive delivery schedules.

III. International Shipping by Rail

Shipping cargo by rail may not always be the most common choice, but it can be suitable for specific situations:

1. Trans-Siberian Railway: The Trans-Siberian Railway is the longest railway in the world, connecting East Asia to Europe. It can be used to transport cargo from Vietnam through Russia and then to the United States.

Phone Number: +7 812 570 4709

2. North American Rail Network: For larger shipments to the United States, the North American rail network can be a good option. Rail lines along the U.S.-Canada and U.S.-Mexico borders offer many choices.

Phone Number: 202-493-6024

IV. Making the Right Shipping Choice

Choosing the right international shipping service depends on various factors, including the type of your cargo, delivery time requirements, budget constraints, and more. Before making a decision, carefully consider all these factors and research specific shipping services.

Additionally, always familiarize yourself with the customs regulations and procedures in both Vietnam and the United States to ensure compliance and minimize shipping risks. Understanding and selecting the right international shipping service will help optimize the cargo transportation process between the two countries.