Import Customs Declaration Procedures in Vietnam

Import Customs Declaration Procedures in Vietnam

The detailed steps for import customs declaration are outlined in the article below. Join Gulf Shipping to gain a clear understanding of each procedure and ensure smooth customs clearance for your imported goods.

Step 1: Prepare Customs Declaration Documents

The following documents are required for import customs declaration:

• Commercial Import Contract
  (Between two parties or three parties if working directly with the manufacturer)

• Authorization for Product Circulation or Certificate of Free Sale (CFS)
  Issued by the exporting country

• Certificate of Origin (C/O)
  Issued by the exporting country

• Commercial Invoice
  Payment invoice between buyer and seller

• Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB)
  Depending on the mode of transportation

• Packing List
  Required for large-sized cargo; goods may be packed on pallets (120 x 160 cm)

• Import License
  Required depending on the type of goods

• Other Supporting Documents, depending on the product category, such as:

  • Cosmetic Product Declaration (for cosmetics)

  • Food Product Declaration (for food items)

  • Animal Quarantine Certificate

  • Food Safety Eligibility Certificate

In addition, enterprises must register a digital signature (mandatory) if conducting electronic import customs declaration. Without a digital signature, only paper-based customs declaration is permitted.

Step 2: Declare Import Information (IDA Procedure)

At this stage, the enterprise representative declares import information directly on the system interface, which includes nearly 150 data fields. All information must be completed accurately, including:

• Country name and country code

• Company name

• Enterprise code

The system will automatically calculate applicable taxes and duties. Importers will be informed of the tax payment deadline to prepare payment accordingly.

Step 3: Register the Import Declaration (IDC)

Review all information entered in Step 2 carefully.

• If all information is correct, proceed to submit the import declaration.

• If errors are found, return to Step 2 to make corrections before submission.

Step 4: Customs Declaration Transmission & Channel Assignment

After submission, the customs system will assign the declaration to one of the following channels:

🔹 Green Channel

Customs officers verify the documents. If everything is valid and taxes are fully paid, goods are cleared immediately without physical inspection.

🔹 Yellow Channel

Goods may or may not be physically inspected. Customs officers will carefully review the documentation and related papers.

🔹 Red Channel

Customs officers conduct a physical inspection of the cargo and goods before clearance.

After completing this step, customs procedures are finalized and the shipment is ready for delivery.

Why Choose Gulf Shipping for Customs Services?

At Gulf Shipping, we provide end-to-end customs services to help you save time and ensure fast, smooth cargo clearance.

👉 Contact us today for detailed consultation and professional support!

Gulf Shipping – Smart and Cost-Effective Logistics Solutions

📞 Contact Information

Address: No. 99, Street 37, Van Phuc Urban Area, Hiep Binh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Phone: (+84) 906 651 726
Email: supportgulf@gulfshipping.com.vn
Website: gulfshipping.com.vn