Important tips When shipping from Vietnam to New Zealand for exporters

From the bustling factories of Ho Chi Minh City to the fertile Mekong Delta, Vietnam's diverse array of exports encompasses electronics, textiles, footwear, coffee, and seafood. With its diverse market, high purchasing power, and growing demand for high-quality goods, New Zealand (NZ) presents an attractive destination for Vietnamese exporters.

In 2022, Vietnamese exports to New Zealand totalled USD $867 million, according to The Observatory of Economic Complexity. The top 3 main exports for that year were broadcasting equipment, video displays, and textile footwear, and the overall exports increased at an annualised rate of 9.54% between 2017 and 2022.

This vibrant and growing trade relationship between Vietnam and New Zealand underscores the vital role of international shipping in today's interconnected world. However, as Vietnamese goods traverse thousands of miles to reach their intended destination, the importance of understanding the intricacies of international shipping becomes even more apparent.

This comprehensive guide aims to demystify the process by delving into key aspects of international shipping. Whether you're a seasoned exporter or embarking on your first international shipment, these tips can provide you with insights and best practices to navigate the complexities successfully.

Understanding shipping requirements

Documentation

Proper documentation is the backbone of successful international shipping. Meticulous preparation can prevent delays, fines, or even the seizure of goods when exporting to New Zealand (NZ).

• Commercial Invoice: A commercial invoice must provide a comprehensive description of the goods, including their Harmonized System (HS) code, value, quantity, country of origin, and any applicable terms of sale (like Incoterms). 
• Packing List: A packing list should itemise the contents of each package, specifying the quantity, weight, dimensions, and any identifying marks or numbers.
• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill: This details the terms of transportation, including the origin, destination, and description of the shipment.
• Certificate of Origin: This document certifies the country where the goods were manufactured. It is often required to claim preferential tariff treatment under trade agreements like the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area (AANZFTA) which is an important document for exporters planning on shipping goods from Vietnam to New Zealand.
  
  
• Import/Export Permits: Certain goods, particularly those considered sensitive or restricted, may require special permits or licenses for import or export. Vietnamese retailers exporting common agricultural goods like rice, coconuts, brazil nuts, cashew nuts, or coffee should pay special attention to New Zealand import regulations. 
• Customs Declaration Forms: These forms, required by both Vietnamese (VN) and New Zealand (NZ) customs authorities, provide information about the shipment for clearance purposes.

Regulatory compliance

Vietnam's export regulations

Exporters from Vietnam must comply with a variety of documentation requirements, including certificates of origin, quality certifications, and export licenses for certain controlled goods.

New Zealand's import regulations

Importers to New Zealand (NZ) must adhere to the Biosecurity Act, which imposes strict controls on the entry of goods such as agricultural products, plants, and animals. In addition, the New Zealand customs services enforces regulations related to product safety, labelling, and consumer protection, as well as import duty on certain goods.

Common prohibited and restricted items

• Dangerous goods: Explosives, flammable liquids, and other hazardous materials are strictly regulated.
• Weapons and firearms: Strict controls are in place for the import and export of weapons and firearms by the New Zealand (NZ) customs service.
• Drugs and narcotics: The import and export of illegal drugs and narcotics are strictly prohibited.
• Endangered species and wildlife products: The trade in endangered species and their products is heavily regulated.

Customs clearance process in New Zealand (NZ)

Pre-clearance preparation

Thorough preparation before your shipment arrives at New Zealand (NZ) customs services is crucial for seamless clearance. Here are some tips to keep in mind.

• Ensure you have all the required documents and any applicable import permits.
• Pre-paying the applicable import duties and taxes for your goods prevents delays caused by payment processing at New Zealand customs.
• For complex shipments or if you're unfamiliar with New Zealand import regulations, consider hiring a customs broker.
• Inform the recipient in New Zealand (NZ) about the shipment's estimated arrival time and provide them with any necessary documentation or information to facilitate customs clearance.

Customs inspection when exporting to New Zealand

New Zealand customs may conduct inspections of imported goods to verify compliance. Be prepared for this possibility and take steps to minimise potential issues:

• Double-check documents and ensure your packages are labelled correctly.
• Customs officials may ask questions about the nature of your goods, their origin, value, and intended use. Be prepared to provide clear and concise answers.
• If any discrepancies are identified during the inspection, address them promptly and provide any additional information or documentation as requested.

How much is shipping from Vietnam?

When aiming for the cheapest shipping to New Zealand (NZ) from Vietnam, careful budgeting will be required. These are the key cost components typically involved:

• Shipping fees: These vary depending on the chosen international shipping method, shipment size and weight, and the distance travelled.
• Duties and taxes: Factor the costs of applicable duties and taxes, determined by your goods' HS code and value, into your budget to avoid unexpected expenses at customs clearance in New Zealand (NZ).
• Insurance: International Shipping Insurance costs to protect your shipment will depend on the value of your goods and the level of coverage you choose.
• If your shipment requires storage at the origin or destination port or if special handling is needed, additional fees may apply.

Ensuring successful shipping from Vietnam to New Zealand

Shipping from Vietnam to New Zealand (NZ) requires careful planning and attention to detail. Every step of the process plays a vital role in ensuring your shipment arrives safely and on time. By investing time and effort in these crucial aspects and taking to heart some of the tips shared above, you can significantly increase the likelihood of a successful and stress-free international shipping experience.

If you’re an exporter from Vietnam looking for a fast, efficient, and reliable shipping solution to New Zealand, consider opening a DHL Express Vietnam business account. With our expansive international network, state-of-the-art shipment visibility tools, and dedicated customer support, we can optimise your shipping operations and facilitate the smooth and timely delivery of your exports.