Ocean FCL
Full 20ft and 40ft containers from Ho Chi Minh City (Cat Lai) and Haiphong.
How Vietnam to South Africa freight works
Vietnam is a fast-growing alternative to China for footwear, clothing, furniture and electronics. Southern suppliers ship from Ho Chi Minh City; northern suppliers from Haiphong, usually transhipping in Singapore or another Asian hub.
Ocean LCL
Groupage for part loads, so smaller importers pay only for the space they use.
Multi-supplier consolidation
Orders from several Vietnamese suppliers combined into one shipment and one customs entry.
Air freight
From Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi into OR Tambo for urgent and high-value cargo.
Indicative transit times from Vietnam
| Origin | Mode | Indicative transit to South Africa |
|---|---|---|
| Ho Chi Minh City | Ocean FCL | 25–35 days to Durban via transhipment |
| Haiphong | Ocean FCL | 28–40 days to Durban |
| Vietnamese ports | Ocean LCL | 30–45 days |
| Ho Chi Minh City / Hanoi | Air freight | 3–6 days to JNB |
Times are indicative and vary with carrier, transhipment and season. We confirm current schedules with every quote.
Duty, permits and compliance
South Africa does not have a free trade agreement with Vietnam, so Vietnamese goods generally pay the full SACU duty rate. Footwear and clothing duties are high, so correct classification is essential.
HS classification
The tariff code decides your duty rate. We classify before you buy so the landed cost holds.
NRCS and SABS
Electrical goods, vehicle components and some building products need NRCS letters of authority before import.
ITAC permits
Used goods, certain steel, textiles and other controlled items may need an ITAC import permit.
Valuation
SARS can question low invoice values. Accurate invoices protect you from penalties and delays.
How we run an import from Vietnam
- Quote. Send the pro forma invoice, packing details and Incoterm. You get a landed-cost quote.
- Collection or port receipt. We collect from the supplier (EXW/FCA) or take over at the load port (FOB).
- Document check. Bill of lading, invoice, packing list and any certificates are checked before sailing.
- SARS clearance. We lodge the entry as a SARS-licensed clearing agent and manage inspections.
- Delivery. Door delivery across South Africa or onward into SADC by road.
Vietnam to South Africa import FAQs
Is shipping from Vietnam cheaper than from China?
Freight rates are often similar, but transhipment can add time. The bigger difference is usually product price and duty, which we can help you compare.
How long does shipping from Vietnam take?
Typically 25 to 40 days to Durban depending on the port and transhipment hub.
Can you collect from factories in Vietnam?
Yes. We arrange factory collection and export clearance in Vietnam.
Do you consolidate Vietnamese and Chinese suppliers?
We can plan shipments from both countries and align arrivals so you clear and deliver efficiently.