Shipping To USA

Shipping to USA is a significant decision, requiring a careful balance of cost, time, and complex procedures. How can you avoid hidden fees and choose a truly reliable logistics partner?

In this article, PTN Logistics provides a comprehensive guide on shipping methods, price structures, and the complete process for sending goods. Equip yourself with the necessary information to make your shipments to the USA simpler and more efficient than ever.

Overview of shipping services to the USA

Shipping services to the USA are logistics solutions designed to transport goods from Vietnam to the United States in the shortest possible time, primarily via air freight. This is not just about moving a package from point A to point B; it is a process centered on speed, security, and convenience:

Exceptional speed

This is the biggest advantage of shipping to USA. Your goods can reach the recipient in just a few business days, which is crucial for urgent shipments, product samples requiring timely review, or gifts that need to arrive on a specific date. This helps you maintain credibility with your customers and partners.

High safety and security

Shipments are handled through a professional process, minimizing the risk of loss or damage. Most reputable providers offer cargo insurance packages, providing you with absolute peace of mind.

Transparent tracking

24/7 online tracking system allows you to know the exact location and status of your shipment from departure to successful delivery. Access to this information anytime, anywhere enables you to proactively manage schedules, plan your time, and eliminate any worries about the transit process.

The convenience of Door-to-Door service

We handle the entire process on your behalf, from picking up the goods at your address in Vietnam to delivering them directly to the recipient in the USA. Customs procedures and the required paperwork for shipping to the USA can often be complicated. Our Door-to-Door service will support you by managing all necessary steps, freeing you from the administrative burden and ensuring your shipment clears customs smoothly.

Need an urgent shipment to the U.S.? PTN’s team can complete declaration and packing the same day.

Methods for shipping goods to the USA

When it comes to shipping to the USA, there are two primary methods: air freight and sea freight. Each is suited to different needs and objectives, ensuring we can meet your specific requirements and expectations.

Shipping to the USA by air freight

This is the fastest method for shipping to the USA—ideal for urgent, high-value items or goods that require short transit times.

Core Advantages:

• Rapid speed: Significantly reduces delivery time, offering you greater flexibility in your planning.
• High level of security: Strict control processes minimize the risk of loss or damage.
• Ideal for high-value goods: Perfect for product samples, important documents, electronics, or high-end fashion items.
• Extensive network: Airlines have vast route networks, allowing your goods to reach numerous destinations across the USA.

Points to Consider:

• Higher cost: This is the biggest drawback compared to sea freight.
• Limitations on weight and size: Not all types of goods can be transported by air.
• Stricter customs and security regulations: Involves more rigorous requirements for documentation and inspection processes.

👉 Learn more: Air Freight by PTN Logistics – Fast and safe

Shipping to the USA by sea freight

Conversely, when cost is the top priority and time is not a critical factor, shipping goods to the USA by sea freight is a leading choice.

This method is particularly suitable for businesses needing to transport large consignments or bulky goods, as well as individuals looking to ship personal effects or household items when relocating.

Core Advantages:

• Low cost: Especially economical for large-volume and oversized shipments, helping to optimize business profits.
• Versatile cargo capacity: Capable of transporting oversized, overweight, or other bulky cargo.
• Fewer restrictions on size and weight: Allows you to send virtually unlimited quantities of goods.
• Environmentally friendlier: Compared to air freight, sea transport has a lower carbon footprint.

Disadvantages:

• Long transit time: Typically takes several weeks to over a month, requiring advance planning.
• Vulnerability to weather and schedules: Can be affected by storms, floods, or other external factors, leading to delays.
• Requires careful packaging: Goods must be packed securely to prevent damage from moisture or impact during the long journey.

👉 Learn more: Ocean Freight by PTN Logistics – Cost-optimized transport

What are the current shipping services to the USA from Ho Chi Minh City?

When searching for a service to ship goods to the USA, you will be faced with numerous options, from global giants to specialized companies in the Vietnamese market. Each provider has its own strengths, and choosing the right partner will determine the effectiveness of the entire process.

The market can currently be divided into two main groups:

➡️ Major international express carriers: Familiar names like DHL, FedEx, and UPS are global logistics corporations with massive networks and operational systems. They offer standardized, reliable shipping services to the USA on a large scale.

➡️ Freight forwarders in Vietnam:

• Companies like PTN Logistics are more than just shipping providers. We operate as partners and major agents for the very airlines and express carriers mentioned above.
• Our role is to consult and build a tailored logistics solution for each specific need—from selecting the most suitable carrier and optimizing costs to handling complex customs procedures.

The choice between these two groups depends on whether you need a standard, off-the-shelf shipping service or a dedicated partner who understands your needs and helps you resolve any challenges that arise.

How long does express shipping to USA take?

For shipping to USA, time is always a top concern for individuals and businesses. Choosing the right express service is critical as it affects delivery speed, the recipient’s experience, and your reputation.

At PTN Logistics, we strive to ensure your goods are always transported within the timeframe agreed upon by both parties.

The fastest transit time is approximately 3-4 business days, and the longest is typically 5-7 business days.

📝 A few notes when comparing transit times:

• The times above do not include weekends, public holidays, or customs clearance time in the destination country.
• All carriers may deliver earlier than expected, especially with priority services.

PTN Logistics has an advantage in supporting customs clearance and conducting thorough inbound checks, which reduces the risk of delays at the declaration stage—a factor often overlooked by customers when choosing a carrier.

Shipping services to the USA at PTN Logistics

At PTN Logistics, we offer a wide range of services, from specialized routes to official services from major carriers like DHL, FedEx, and more. When you choose us, you are choosing a “chief architect” who will guide your shipment along the best, fastest, and most cost-effective route.

Consulting for optimal solutions

Based on your requirements for time, budget, and cargo characteristics, we will analyze and advise on which carrier’s service is the most suitable. With over 15 years of experience, PTN will recommend the most optimal service depending on the destination state in the USA.

Cost optimization

As a major partner, we receive more preferential rates than individual customers. This advantage allows you to access world-class shipping services to the USA at a more competitive price. This is how we help you break the mindset of “logistics is just a cost.”

Professional handling of procedures

The biggest risks often lie not in the flight itself, but in the procedures and paperwork. PTN’s team of experts will guide you in preparing documents and declaring customs accurately, ensuring that the risk of your shipment being held or incurring unexpected costs is minimized.

Dedicated support

Instead of contacting an international call center, you will have a dedicated PTN specialist who closely monitors and updates you on your shipment’s status. Our team is available 24/7 to handle any issues that may arise. Choosing PTN Logistics means choosing a partner for your journey, helping you transform shipping to the USA from a cost burden into a competitive advantage.

👉 Leave your phone number and PTN will call you back right away.

Pricing for shipping to USA at PTN Logistics

We understand that cost is one of your primary concerns and a key factor in your decision-making process. Instead of providing generic figures, PTN Logistics is committed to offering a transparent overview of how rates are calculated. This helps you easily budget and understand exactly what you are paying for when shipping to the USA.

The following price guide for air freight to the USA applies to shipments with a transit time of 5-10 days. This is the most popular option for shipments that require speed, including personal goods, documents, and product samples. Below is a reference price list to help you estimate costs:

Example price range (for illustrative purposes only):

• Under 0.5kg: 250,000 – 350,000 VND
• 1kg: 400,000 – 550,000 VND
• 5kg: 1,500,000 – 2,000,000 VND
• Over 21kg: Preferential rate per kg (e.g., 250,000 – 300,000 VND/kg).

📝 Please Note:

• Prices do not include U.S. import duties (if any).
• Fuel surcharges and remote area surcharges may apply.
• Rates are subject to change based on timing and carrier policies.

👉 Contact us now to get the latest shipping to USA rates!

How shipping rates to the USA are calculated

To fully understand the costs of shipping to the USA, you need to be familiar with how rates are determined based on weight, dimensions, and the type of service.

By commodity type

General cargo: Standard rates apply to items like clothing, shoes, and personal effects.

Special/Restricted goods: Items such as food (dry, frozen), medicine, cosmetics, liquids, or products containing batteries. These typically incur surcharges and require specific inspection documents and packaging regulations.

High-Value goods: Require a value declaration and may necessitate purchasing insurance. The insurance cost will be added to the shipping fee.

By destination state  in the USA

Major states/cities: California, New York, Texas, Florida, Chicago, etc., usually enjoy lower rates thanks to frequent flights and easy access.

Remote areas: May incur last-mile surcharges.

By weight/quantity

Gross weight pricing: Charged by the actual scale weight.

Volumetric (dimensional) weight:

• Formula: (Length × Width × Height) / Conversion factor.
• Conversion factor: 5000
• You pay on whichever is greater: gross weight or volumetric weight.

👉 Still have questions? Contact our professional team HERE.

How to calculate shipping rates for bulky shipments

The volumetric weight formula is applied: (Length x Width x Height) / Divisor.

The divisor is applied strictly. An oversize surcharge may be incurred if the shipment’s dimensions exceed the carrier’s specified limits.

👉 We recommend contacting PTN directly for on-site measuring and accurate quotes.

Why customers choose PTN Logistics for dhipping to the USA

Among the many options available, what makes businesses and individual customers trust and choose PTN Logistics for their shipments to the USA? The answer lies in the core values we deliver, which go far beyond simply transporting a package.

Smart cost optimization

We don’t just send you a price list. Instead, we analyze your needs, advise on the best packaging methods, and select the airline or shipping line with the most favorable rates. As a major partner to top carriers, PTN receives competitive pricing, helping you save on your budget while ensuring high-quality service.

Tailor-made solutions for every need

We understand that no two shipments are alike. PTN will listen, analyze, and design a unique shipping plan tailored to your specific situation—from choosing the right service (express or economy) to handling special-category items, we ensure maximum efficiency.

Expertise in procedures to minimize risk

Customs clearance is the biggest hurdle that can cause delays and generate extra costs for your shipment. With extensive experience, PTN’s team of experts will act as your guide, helping you prepare all necessary documents completely and accurately to ensure a smooth customs clearance process.

Dedicated Vietnamese support

When you work with PTN, you will have a dedicated personal consultant who oversees the entire process. Every question and every issue that arises will be handled promptly by someone who speaks your language and understands your context, saving you from the hassle of dealing with complex international call centers.

Choosing PTN Logistics means choosing peace of mind, transparency, and efficiency. Let us partner with you on your journey to bring your goods to the USA in the smartest and safest way possible.

👉 Learn more about PTN Logistics – your strategic logistics partner!

The shipping process to the USA at PTN Logistics

To make the complex process of shipping to the USA as simple and transparent as possible for our customers, PTN Logistics has standardized a professional 7-step workflow. Each step is designed to ensure your shipment is handled safely, quickly, and efficiently, giving you complete confidence when using our services.

Step 1: Receive your request

As soon as you contact PTN via our hotline, Zalo, or website, our team of specialists will receive your request for shipping services to the USA.

We will ask for basic information about your shipment, such as: the type of goods, estimated weight and dimensions, and the sender and recipient addresses.

Step 2: Consultation, quotation, and service confirmation

Based on the information you provide, we will analyze and advise on the most optimal shipping method. You will receive a detailed price quote that clearly breaks down every cost item, with absolutely no hidden fees.

Step 3: Picking up and inspecting the goods

Once you have approved the quote, our staff will arrange for pickup at your location. At this stage, we will inspect the goods with you one more time to confirm the correct quantity and type as declared and to ensure the shipment does not contain any items prohibited for import into the USA.

Step 4: Packing & labeling

Your goods will be transported to PTN’s warehouse and handled by our professional packaging team. We ensure that every package is properly protected for its journey to the USA.

Step 5: Customs declaration

This is the most complex and risk-prone stage if not handled by professionals. You can have complete peace of mind as PTN Logistics will handle this entire procedural burden on your behalf. We will prepare the necessary declarations and documents and work with customs authorities to get your shipment cleared quickly.

Step 6: Shipping the goods

Immediately after customs clearance is complete, the shipment will be handed over to a reputable international carrier (such as DHL, FedEx, UPS, etc.) to begin its journey to the USA.

Your tracking number is shared via Zalo or email immediately so you can follow your shipping to USA journey.

Step 7: 24/7 online tracking & proactive support

Once you receive the tracking number, you can actively monitor your shipment’s detailed journey on the global carrier’s website. However, the PTN difference is that we are still here. Your specialist will simultaneously monitor your shipment and proactively notify you of key milestones.

Whenever you have a question, we are always ready to assist until the recipient successfully signs for the delivery.

👉 Urgent shipment to the U.S.? PTN can handle declaration and packing the same day!

How to pack for shipping to the USA

Properly packing your goods is a critical step to ensure your shipment arrives in the USA safely and intact. It also helps facilitate a smooth customs clearance process.

Packing in cardboard boxes

• Suitable for: Clothing, books, personal items, dry goods, lightweight, and non-fragile items.
• Requirements:
  • Cardboard boxes must be sturdy, sufficiently thick, new or in good condition, and not dented.
  • They must be securely sealed with no holes or gaps.
  • Use professional packing tape to seal all edges and seams.
  • Insert filler materials (foam, newspaper, air pillows) to fill empty spaces and provide shock absorption.

Packing in wooden crates

• Suitable for: Fragile items (ceramics, glass), heavy or bulky goods, machinery, and high-value artwork.
• Requirements:
• • Wooden crates must be strongly constructed, fully enclosed, and able to withstand heavy loads.
  • They should have an inner lining for moisture protection.
  • Use specialized cushioning materials (foam, rubber) to secure the goods inside.
  • Must be treated for pests (compliant with ISPM 15 standards) and bear the official certification stamp.

For other items

• We recommend disassembling removable parts to reduce volumetric size and cost—saving significantly on shipping to USA.
• For non-disassemblable items, PTN proposes the most protective, cost-effective packing for optimal results.

Items permitted for shipping to the USA

The United States allows the import of many types of personal and commercial goods. To ensure your shipment clears customs smoothly, it is essential to strictly comply with the regulations of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and other relevant agencies.

Types of goods that can be shipped to the USA

Below are popular categories with key notes to simplify shipping to USA paperwork.

Clothing, footwear, fashion accessories

Fashion items are among the most frequently shipped goods to the USA. Common products you can send include:

• Apparel
• All types of footwear
• Handbags, backpacks, leather wallets
• Fashion accessories

Note: Goods must have clear labels. Shipping counterfeit or knock-off branded items is strictly prohibited and may result in seizure and destruction by U.S. Customs.

Personal and household goods

Essential personal and household goods can be shipped, including: suitcases, books, decorative items, kitchen tools (without sharp objects), etc.

This is a relatively easy category to ship. However, if you are sending items made from wood, bamboo, or rattan, ensure they have been properly treated and have undergone quarantine inspection to prevent issues with pests.

Dry foods

Items like candies, tea, coffee, vermicelli, dried noodles, instant noodles, cashews, dried fruit, etc. Products must have clear labels, a verifiable origin, and contain no prohibited ingredients.

Cosmetics and beauty products

Creams, lipsticks, shampoos, body wash, etc. Must have clear provenance and compliant ingredients. Aerosols or items containing alcohol/flammables are not accepted for shipping to USA.

Western, traditional, and herbal medicines

All legally permitted medicines. A doctor’s prescription is required for prescription drugs. All medicine must be in its original, sealed manufacturer’s packaging with clear labeling.

Handicrafts and souvenirs

Paintings, small statues, ceramics, etc. Wood items must meet quarantine requirements if applicable.

Small electronic components

Motherboards, chips, RAM, etc. However, electronics containing Lithium-ion batteries are classified as dangerous goods. These items require a special declaration and must be packaged according to specific regulations.

👉 See also: The list of prohibited import/export items!

PTN Logistics – We handle special shipping to USA

Shipping “difficult” items to the USA requires experience and a deep understanding of regulations and procedures. This is where the difference between a standard carrier and a strategic logistics partner like PTN becomes clear.

We have the capability and experience to handle complex shipments:

Food and cosmetics in bulk

Do you want to ship bird’s nest soup, regional specialties, or a batch of your own branded cosmetics to the USA?

We will consult and assist you with the FDA registration procedures and filing the “Prior Notice” with U.S. Customs, ensuring your shipment is cleared legally.

Electronics with batteries and high – value goods

We have specialized handling processes for items classified as dangerous goods, such as products containing batteries. Additionally, we provide insurance solutions and maximum-security packaging for high-value items like tech gadgets, watches, and jewelry.

Bulky, oversize cargo and machinery

Sending items like massage chairs, large statues, or machinery is no longer a problem. The PTN team will survey the items, advise on crating methods, and select the optimal transportation mode to minimize costs and ensure safety. Handling such items on your own can lead to significant risks related to procedures and unexpected costs.

Shipping to the USA may seem complicated, but with PTN Logistics, all barriers are removed. We are your “Strategic Logistics Partner,” helping you optimize costs, ensure safety, and maintain transparency for every shipment.

Don’t let hidden risks hold you back. Let PTN Logistics make your shipping journey simple and effective.

Ready to optimize your supply chain? Contact PTN Logistics today for a free consultation!

Contact Information

• Hotline: 1900 2197 – 0935 333 999
• Email: nam.nguyen@ptnlogistics.com