Vietnam to India Container Shipping
Shipping containers from Vietnam to India is a vital trade route connecting Southeast Asia with South Asia. Whether you are moving textiles, electronics, machinery, or agricultural goods, understanding logistics, shipping costs, transit times, and port procedures ensures smooth and cost-efficient delivery. With the right freight forwarding partner and proper planning, cargo from Vietnam can reach Indian destinations reliably and on schedule.
Factors Affecting Container Shipping Costs
Several key variables impact the total shipping rate between Vietnam and India:
Distance between ports
The approximate distance between major Vietnamese ports and Indian ports affects fuel costs and transit duration.
Container type and size
The most common options are 20-foot and 40-foot standard containers. Special containers (reefer, open-top, flat-rack) are more costly.
FCL vs. LCL
Full Container Load (FCL) is more economical for larger shipments, while Less than Container Load (LCL) is suitable for smaller volumes.
Seasonality and demand
Peak periods, including pre-festival seasons and harvest times, may increase rates due to limited vessel space.
Port fees and terminal charges
Charges like Terminal Handling Charges (THC), container cleaning, and documentation fees vary by port and carrier.
Average Shipping Costs from Vietnam to India
Container Type | Estimated Cost (USD) | Transit Time |
20ft Full Container Load (FCL) | $950 – $1,400 | 10–15 days |
40ft Full Container Load (FCL) | $1,450 – $2,000 | 10–15 days |
Less than Container Load (LCL) | $70 – $120 per CBM | 12–20 days |
FCL vs. LCL Shipping Options
Shipping Mode | Best For | Pros | Cons |
FCL | Full-volume cargo | Lower unit cost, secure handling, faster | Higher upfront cost |
LCL | Partial shipments | No need to wait for full container, flexible | Slower due to consolidation |
Explanation:
- FCL (Full Container Load) offers faster transit, reduced risk of cargo damage, and is ideal for bulk shipping.
- LCL (Less than Container Load) suits SMEs or irregular shipments, albeit with extended lead times due to groupage handling.
Transit Times from Vietnam to India
Mode | Average Transit Time |
Ocean Freight (FCL) | 10–15 days |
Ocean Freight (LCL) | 12–20 days |
Air Freight | 3–6 days |
- Ocean freight is preferred for cost-sensitive cargo.
- Air freight is significantly faster but recommended only for high-value or time-critical goods.
Popular Ports for Shipping from Vietnam to India
Major Ports in Vietnam:
- Hai Phong – Northern Vietnam’s key export port
- Da Nang – Central Vietnam port, growing infrastructure
- Ho Chi Minh (Cat Lai Terminal) – Largest and busiest container terminal in Vietnam
Major Ports in India:
- Nhava Sheva (JNPT), Mumbai – India’s primary container gateway
- Mundra Port – High efficiency and inland reach
- Chennai Port – Ideal for South India-bound shipments
Port selection depends on your supplier’s location in Vietnam and final delivery zone in India.
Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond ocean freight rates, expect the following additional charges:
- Customs clearance and import duties (based on commodity code and cargo value)
- THC and container cleaning charges at both origin and destination ports
- Cargo insurance (recommended for high-value goods)
- Demurrage/detention fees for delays in pickup or return of containers
- Optional services: fumigation, palletization, labeling, inland trucking, warehousing
Always confirm all-inclusive quotes from your freight provider to avoid hidden charges.
How to Reduce Your Shipping Costs
To optimize your shipping budget from Vietnam to India:
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Consolidate cargo to FCL whenever possible for lower unit cost
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Plan ahead and book early to lock favorable rates
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Minimize wasted container space through optimized packaging
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Choose alternate port pairs with lower terminal charges or better frequency
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Partner with a reliable forwarder who understands the India-Vietnam trade lane
Why Ship with ASIANIA LOGISTIKA?
ASIANIA LOGISTIKA PRIVATE LIMITED specializes in end-to-end freight solutions between Vietnam and India:
- Competitive freight rates for both FCL and LCL
- Expert handling of customs clearance and documentation
- Cargo tracking and visibility from origin to destination
- Dedicated trade support team for Vietnam–India route
- Solutions tailored to your cargo type, schedule, and budget
For additional questions, contact us
Mumbai
Office no - 1312, ICRC, Sikova Industrial lane, adjacent Lane to State Bank of India, Nityanand Nagar, Ghatkopar West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400086
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