Shipping to the USA: Current status and procedures (updated 2025)

Shipping to the US is becoming easier thanks to strong growth in exports and reputable shipping services. However, in order for goods to successfully arrive, sellers need to clearly understand the important regulations and requirements when shipping to the US.

1. Current status of shipping to the US

According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Vietnam's export of goods to the US is on the rise. As of October 2024, Vietnam's goods exports to the US reached 98.69 billion USD, up 24.6% over the same period in 2023.

ship-to-usa

Export value of 7 markets/market areas over 10 billion USD in 10 months/2023 and 10 months/2024 (Source: General Department of Vietnam Customs)

Key items such as textiles, wooden handicrafts, electronic machinery and equipment, and agricultural products are on the rise in export. However, shipping to the US from Vietnam is facing numerous challenges, especially for bulky goods.

Sea container costs fluctuate strongly, especially during peak seasons. The cost of shipping containers from Vietnam to the US reached 20,000 USD/container in 2021 and decreased to about 6,000 USD in 2023. Container shortages and high ship rental prices during peak seasons put great pressure on export businesses.

In addition, the US is increasingly applying strict standards and environments to imported goods from Vietnam. Strict customs and tariff regulations from the US, along with requirements for documents, create pressure for Vietnamese businesses to ship goods to the US.

2. Instructions for successful shipping to the US

Shipping to the US not only requires careful preparation but also strict compliance with international regulations. Each step in the process needs to be performed accurately to optimize efficiency and minimize risks.

2.1. Identify the type of goods

Clearly identify the type of goods you want to send: general, fragile, frozen food, or dangerous goods. Understand the US regulations for each type of goods. Below are some basic requirements for each type of goods:

General goods

Items such as clothing, shoes, and household appliances must comply with US regulations on labeling, product safety, and quality standards. Ensure full and transparent information on the product.

Fragile goods

When shipping fragile goods such as glass and ceramics to the US, it is necessary to ensure careful packaging and use protective materials to avoid damage. This type of goods does not have special import requirements, but must ensure the safety and quality of the goods.

Frozen food

Must be registered with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and have a food safety certificate. Product labels must clearly show ingredients, origin and storage instructions according to US standards.

Dangerous goods

Chemicals, lithium batteries, flammable and explosive materials must be certified for safety and properly packaged. Warning labels must be affixed and the licensed hazardous goods transportation process must be followed.

Technology goods

Electronic devices such as phones and computers must be certified for quality, ensuring compliance with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) standards. Products must be labeled and meet environmental regulations, limiting the use of toxic substances.

ship-to-usa 2.2. Prepare goods before shipping to the US

Before shipping to the US, pack carefully to ensure that the product is not damaged, scratched or missing. Make sure that all items meet quality standards before shipping.

Label clearly stating the sender, recipient, address, phone number and postal code. For special goods, use additional symbols such as "Fragile" to ensure careful handling.

Prepare all necessary documents and papers so that the shipment can be cleared through customs. If necessary, add an export license or quarantine certificate depending on the type of goods.

2.3. Choosing a shipping unit

When choosing a shipping unit, you need to carefully research information such as costs, insurance policies, and utilities such as order tracking and customer support. Prioritizing units with high ratings for reliability and service will increase the rate of successful shipping to the US.

Some reputable international shipping units that you can refer to include:

DHL Express: Express delivery service with a wide network, operating in more than 220 countries and territories.

FedEx: Provides fast, safe and reliable international shipping services, with many flexible options suitable for high-value goods.

UPS: One of the oldest international freight forwarding companies, operating in more than 220 countries and territories worldwide.

EMS: International express delivery service of Vietnam Post Corporation (VNPost), present in 63 provinces and cities in Vietnam and other countries around the world.

Viettel Post: International express delivery service of Military Industry - Telecommunications Group, currently covering more than 200 countries and territories globally.

Nasco Express: Specializes in providing domestic and international shipping services, including express delivery, COD, declaration, and packaging of goods with a network of 220 countries.

2.4. Tracking and processing orders

After shipping to the US, use the tracking number to track the progress of the order through the shipping system. This ensures that the order is closely monitored, avoiding the risk of losing control.

When the goods are delayed, immediately contact the shipping unit to determine the cause and expected delivery time. In case of lost goods, quickly coordinate with the shipping partner and prepare an alternative plan such as refunding or sending the product back to the customer.

ship-to-usa 3. Important notes when shipping to the US

For shipping to go smoothly to the US, preparing the procedures and packing properly are factors that cannot be ignored. Always prepare carefully to ensure safety and save time.

3.1. Prepare customs procedures and necessary documents

When shipping goods to the US, it is necessary to prepare all documents including the commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin (C/O), and bill of lading. The first step is to declare customs electronically in Vietnam, then declare AMS and ISF to US Customs at least 48 hours before departure.

After paying the relevant taxes and fees in both countries, the goods are cleared and delivered to the receiving port. Careful preparation and strict compliance with regulations help exports go smoothly.

In addition to the above basic documents, some types of documents should also be prepared such as export licenses, cargo safety declarations (SDS), quarantine certificates for food or agricultural products, and customs invoices. Cargo insurance documents and product technical documents are also necessary to ensure the seller's rights when problems arise.

3.2. Packing standards when shipping to the US

When shipping to the US, proper packaging is a key factor to ensure product safety during transportation. Below are some basic packaging regulations that sellers should be aware of.

Goods must be carefully wrapped in bubble wrap, foam or foam beads and then placed in a sturdy carton. Use strong tape to seal the edges of the box and write full information of the sender and recipient to ensure no loss.

Each package must not weigh more than 32kg and measure 119cm x 119cm x 81cm to ensure safe transportation. For oversized items, the size must not exceed 200cm x 119cm x 81cm.

Fragile items must be wrapped in multiple layers of bubble wrap and placed in a 5-layer carton with foam inserts. Electronic items must use shockproof materials and be sealed tightly. Cosmetics and liquids should be placed in leak-proof bags, with absorbent or shock-proof materials inserted.

Goods with sharp edges should be carefully wrapped and taped at the corners to avoid danger. Label warnings such as "Fragile" or "Do not turn over" for proper handling by staff. Special goods should be notified in advance for appropriate packaging measures.

Learn more: Export packaging specifications

4. Conclusion

Shipping to the US is no longer a big challenge if sellers master the key factors. Although the US market has many strict requirements, careful preparation will help sellers overcome all barriers, ensuring that goods arrive safely and on time.

Accompany businesses to sell effectively on Amazon. Connect with us Here to receive free 1-1 consultation from AGlobal's leading experts.

AGlobal - Amazon's account management, advertising and education partner in Vietnam, helping more than 200+ units export goods simply, streamlined and effectively.

AGlobal

Shipping to the USA: Current status and procedures (updated 2025)

Shipping to the US is becoming easier thanks to strong growth in exports and reputable shipping services. However, in order for goods to successfully arrive, sellers need to clearly understand the important regulations and requirements when shipping to the US.

1. Current status of shipping to the US

According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Vietnam's export of goods to the US is on the rise. As of October 2024, Vietnam's goods exports to the US reached 98.69 billion USD, up 24.6% over the same period in 2023.

Export value of 7 markets/market areas over 10 billion USD in 10 months/2023 and 10 months/2024 (Source: General Department of Vietnam Customs)

Key items such as textiles, wooden handicrafts, electronic machinery and equipment, and agricultural products are on the rise in export. However, shipping to the US from Vietnam is facing numerous challenges, especially for bulky goods.

In addition, the US is increasingly applying strict standards and environments to imported goods from Vietnam. Strict customs and tariff regulations from the US, along with requirements for documents, create pressure for Vietnamese businesses to ship goods to the US.

2. Instructions for successful shipping to the US

Shipping to the US not only requires careful preparation but also strict compliance with international regulations. Each step in the process needs to be performed accurately to optimize efficiency and minimize risks.

2.1. Identify the type of goods

Clearly identify the type of goods you want to send: general, fragile, frozen food, or dangerous goods. Understand the US regulations for each type of goods. Below are some basic requirements for each type of goods:

General goods

Items such as clothing, shoes, and household appliances must comply with US regulations on labeling, product safety, and quality standards. Ensure full and transparent information on the product.

Fragile goods

When shipping fragile goods such as glass and ceramics to the US, it is necessary to ensure careful packaging and use protective materials to avoid damage. This type of goods does not have special import requirements, but must ensure the safety and quality of the goods.

Frozen food

Must be registered with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and have a food safety certificate. Product labels must clearly show ingredients, origin and storage instructions according to US standards.

Dangerous goods

Chemicals, lithium batteries, flammable and explosive materials must be certified for safety and properly packaged. Warning labels must be affixed and the licensed hazardous goods transportation process must be followed.

Technology goods

Electronic devices such as phones and computers must be certified for quality, ensuring compliance with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) standards. Products must be labeled and meet environmental regulations, limiting the use of toxic substances.

Before shipping to the US, pack carefully to ensure that the product is not damaged, scratched or missing. Make sure that all items meet quality standards before shipping.

Label clearly stating the sender, recipient, address, phone number and postal code. For special goods, use additional symbols such as "Fragile" to ensure careful handling.

Prepare all necessary documents and papers so that the shipment can be cleared through customs. If necessary, add an export license or quarantine certificate depending on the type of goods.

2.3. Choosing a shipping unit

When choosing a shipping unit, you need to carefully research information such as costs, insurance policies, and utilities such as order tracking and customer support. Prioritizing units with high ratings for reliability and service will increase the rate of successful shipping to the US.

Some reputable international shipping units that you can refer to include:

DHL Express: Express delivery service with a wide network, operating in more than 220 countries and territories.

FedEx: Provides fast, safe and reliable international shipping services, with many flexible options suitable for high-value goods.

UPS: One of the oldest international freight forwarding companies, operating in more than 220 countries and territories worldwide.

EMS: International express delivery service of Vietnam Post Corporation (VNPost), present in 63 provinces and cities in Vietnam and other countries around the world.

Viettel Post: International express delivery service of Military Industry - Telecommunications Group, currently covering more than 200 countries and territories globally.

Nasco Express: Specializes in providing domestic and international shipping services, including express delivery, COD, declaration, and packaging of goods with a network of 220 countries.

2.4. Tracking and processing orders

After shipping to the US, use the tracking number to track the progress of the order through the shipping system. This ensures that the order is closely monitored, avoiding the risk of losing control.

When the goods are delayed, immediately contact the shipping unit to determine the cause and expected delivery time. In case of lost goods, quickly coordinate with the shipping partner and prepare an alternative plan such as refunding or sending the product back to the customer.

For shipping to go smoothly to the US, preparing the procedures and packing properly are factors that cannot be ignored. Always prepare carefully to ensure safety and save time.

3.1. Prepare customs procedures and necessary documents

After paying the relevant taxes and fees in both countries, the goods are cleared and delivered to the receiving port. Careful preparation and strict compliance with regulations help exports go smoothly.

3.2. Packing standards when shipping to the US

When shipping to the US, proper packaging is a key factor to ensure product safety during transportation. Below are some basic packaging regulations that sellers should be aware of.

Goods must be carefully wrapped in bubble wrap, foam or foam beads and then placed in a sturdy carton. Use strong tape to seal the edges of the box and write full information of the sender and recipient to ensure no loss.

Each package must not weigh more than 32kg and measure 119cm x 119cm x 81cm to ensure safe transportation. For oversized items, the size must not exceed 200cm x 119cm x 81cm.

Fragile items must be wrapped in multiple layers of bubble wrap and placed in a 5-layer carton with foam inserts. Electronic items must use shockproof materials and be sealed tightly. Cosmetics and liquids should be placed in leak-proof bags, with absorbent or shock-proof materials inserted.

Goods with sharp edges should be carefully wrapped and taped at the corners to avoid danger. Label warnings such as "Fragile" or "Do not turn over" for proper handling by staff. Special goods should be notified in advance for appropriate packaging measures.

Learn more: Export packaging specifications

4. Conclusion

Shipping to the US is no longer a big challenge if sellers master the key factors. Although the US market has many strict requirements, careful preparation will help sellers overcome all barriers, ensuring that goods arrive safely and on time.

Accompany businesses to sell effectively on Amazon. Connect with us Here to receive free 1-1 consultation from AGlobal's leading experts.

AGlobal - Amazon's account management, advertising and education partner in Vietnam, helping more than 200+ units export goods simply, streamlined and effectively.

AGlobal

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