As Vietnam–US trade continues to grow, the need for efficient international shipping – especially by air – is more critical than ever for exporters. With unmatched speed and flexibility, air freight is the go-to solution for urgent, high-value, or time-sensitive shipments where sea freight may fall short.

Vietnam–USA Export Market: Potential and Growth

Vietnam–USA Export Market

The United States is currently Vietnam’s largest export destination, covering a wide range of products from traditional sectors like textiles, footwear, and electronics to high-value goods such as electronic components, medical devices, and urgent samples.

With long geographical distances and strict US import regulations, businesses must adopt logistics solutions that are both time-efficient and fully compliant. This is where air freight becomes a strategic option.

>> Read More: Export Standards & Procedures for Garments to the U.S. and Global Markets (Updated 2025)

US Import Duties and Compliance Requirements

To ship goods to the US, understanding import regulations and tariff policies is essential. Each product is classified under a specific HS Code, which determines the applicable duty rate and reporting requirements.

Depending on the product, the US may require industry-specific documents, including:

• FDA registration for food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices
• USDA permits for agricultural goods
• FCC compliance for broadcasting or wireless electronics

Failure to provide correct documentation can result in customs delays, penalties, or shipment rejection.

20% Import Tax on Vietnamese Goods from August 2025

According to a US Executive Order effective August 7, 2025, a 20% import duty will apply to most goods originating from Vietnam. This measure reflects the US’s push for “reciprocal trade” – ensuring balanced tariffs and transparent sourcing.

Originally proposed at 46%, the final 20% rate demonstrates Vietnam’s efforts to improve supply chain transparency and reduce trade fraud concerns.

Transshipped Goods May Face 40% Tariff

One critical issue for exporters: goods suspected of being transshipped (routed through Vietnam from third countries to avoid duties) may face tariffs as high as 40%.

To avoid this, exporters must:

• Provide clear documentation proving goods are Made in Vietnam
• Avoid any false origin labeling
• Work with professional freight forwarders for compliant customs clearance

>> Read More: What Are CO and CQ? Why Crucial in International Trade? (Updated 2025)

When to Choose Air Freight?

Air freight is ideal when:

• Shipments are urgent or time-bound
• Goods are high-value, fragile, or sensitive to storage time
• You need to ship samples, trial products, or emergency orders
  

While air freight is costlier than sea freight, it delivers unmatched speed and reliability when timing is crucial.

>> Read More: Summary Table of Logistics Fees During Freight Transport 

Major US Airports by Region

Major US Airports by Region

Choosing the right destination airport in the US can help optimize shipping time and costs.

West Coast Airports

Closer to Asia, faster transit times, and often lower costs:

• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – major international cargo hub
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO) – ideal for tech and e-commerce goods
• Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) – suitable for North Asia routes
• Portland International Airport (PDX) – less congestion, reliable alternative

East Coast Airports

Better for shipments to Eastern and Southeastern US regions:

• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) – largest cargo gateway in the East
• Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) – close to New York, great for fashion, pharmaceuticals
• Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) – high-volume domestic and international hub

Miami International Airport (MIA) – specialized in perishables and Latin America connections

How Long Does Air Freight Take from Vietnam to the USA?

Transit time for air freight from Vietnam to the US typically ranges from 3 to 7 business days, depending on the route, service type (express vs. economy), and customs processing.

In comparison, sea freight for the same route may take 25–40 days, making air freight a strategic option when speed is a priority.

Air Freight Costs from Vietnam to the USA

Air freight costs are calculated based on gross weight and chargeable weight (volumetric). Items with large dimensions but low actual weight may incur higher fees due to volumetric pricing.

Additional costs may include:

• Fuel surcharge
• Airport security fee
• Customs clearance fee
• Warehousing (if applicable)
• Special handling for goods like lithium batteries, cosmetics, or food

At King Freight Logistics Vietnam (KFLV), we help businesses reduce air freight costs through consolidation options, smart route planning, and avoiding peak-season surcharges.

>> Read More: What Are Consol and Coload Shipments?

KFLV’s End-to-End Air Freight Process to the USA

KFLV’s End-to-End Air Freight Process to the USA

We offer a full-service air freight solution from Vietnam to the USA, tailored to your needs:

1. Receive customer request and recommend the best shipping method (EXW, FOB, DDU, DDP)

2. Pick up goods from the factory or warehouse in Vietnam

3. Prepare all export documents, including invoice, packing list, CO, permits

4. Book flights with trusted airline partners

5. Monitor shipment status throughout transit

6. Handle US import customs procedures

7. Deliver directly to recipient (door-to-door available)

Each shipment is tracked transparently, giving your business full visibility and control.

Need to Ship to the USA by Air? Contact KFLV Today

With proven experience in the Vietnam–US route, KFLV supports:

• FDA, USDA registration
• Accurate HS code classification
• DDU/DDP door-to-door service
• Responsive customer support team
• Real-time shipment tracking

We don’t just move cargo – we help your business succeed through seamless logistics.

Call us at +84 (0) 938 188 796 or Email: cs1@hcm.kfkingfreight.com
Start your air freight shipment to the USA with KFLV today.