The Cheapest Way to Ship a Package to Vietnam in 2026

Vietnam is one of the most popular destinations for US shipments in Southeast Asia, driven by a large diaspora community sending care packages and a booming e-commerce market. Here's how to get the cheapest rates.

Carrier Rate Comparison: US to Vietnam

Small Package (2 lbs, 10" x 8" x 4")

Medium Package (5 lbs, 14" x 12" x 8")

Large/Heavy Package (20 lbs, 24" x 18" x 14")

Vietnam Customs & Duties

Duty-Free Threshold

• 1,000,000 VND (approximately $40 USD): Gifts and personal shipments under this value are generally duty-free
• Commercial shipments are assessed duties regardless of value

Common Duty Rates

Customs Documentation

Commercial Invoice with value, description, HS code

CN 22/23 forms for USPS shipments

Packing list with detailed contents

Vietnamese customs may require a translated description of contents

Vietnam-Specific Tips

Address Format

Recipient Name
House Number, Street Name
Ward (Phường), District (Quận)
City/Province
VIETNAM

Common Issues

Supplements and vitamins: Popular items to ship but may require import permits for commercial quantities

Electronics: High-value electronics (phones, laptops) attract duty + 10% VAT

Used clothing: Prohibited for import in commercial quantities

Food items: Non-perishable snacks generally pass; fresh food is prohibited

Prohibited Items

• Used electronics (in commercial quantities)
• Weapons and ammunition
• Narcotics
• Political materials deemed sensitive
• Counterfeit goods
• Used clothing (commercial quantities)

Best Budget Strategies

Care Packages to Family

USPS Priority Mail International is the best value for care packages:

• Medium Flat Rate Box ($65.85) holds up to 20 lbs
• Includes tracking and $200 insurance
• 6-10 day delivery to major cities

Vietnamese Diaspora Shipping Services

Specialty Vietnamese shipping companies (Vietjet Cargo, VN Post partners) offer:

• Sea freight for large/heavy shipments ($3-5/lb, 30-45 day delivery)
• Consolidation services (combine multiple packages)
• Door-to-door delivery in Vietnam
• Vietnamese-speaking customer service

E-commerce Orders

For e-commerce sellers shipping to Vietnam:

• DHL has the strongest customs clearance network in Vietnam
• FedEx International Economy offers the best price-to-speed ratio
• Include duty estimates in your checkout to avoid surprises

Money-Saving Tips

USPS flat rate boxes: Best value for dense items — the large flat rate box ($98.50) can hold up to 20 lbs

Ship in bulk: One 15-lb package costs less than three 5-lb packages

Compare rates with atoship for up to 89% off carrier rates

Use sea freight for non-urgent heavy shipments — saves 60-70% vs air

Declare accurately: Under-declaring risks seizure; over-declaring costs more in duties

FAQ

How long does it take to ship from the US to Vietnam?

USPS First-Class: 7-21 days. USPS Priority Mail: 6-10 days. DHL Express: 2-4 days. FedEx Economy: 4-6 days. Sea freight: 30-45 days.

Can I ship vitamins and supplements to Vietnam?

Small quantities for personal use generally pass through customs. Commercial quantities may require import permits from Vietnam's Ministry of Health.

Is DHL or FedEx better for Vietnam?

DHL has a stronger local presence in Vietnam with more delivery points and faster customs clearance. FedEx is usually slightly cheaper for economy service.

Do recipients in Vietnam have to pay customs duty?

Yes — for items valued over 1,000,000 VND ($40 USD), the recipient pays customs duty + 10% VAT. They'll receive a customs notification and must pay before release.

Can I ship used items to Vietnam?

Used personal items (clothing, books) in small quantities for personal use are generally fine. Used electronics and used clothing in commercial quantities are restricted or prohibited.