Introduction
Germany and Vietnam share a burgeoning trade relationship, with Germany standing as Vietnam’s largest trade partner within the European Union (EU). This robust partnership has led to a surge in the movement of goods between the two countries, making sea freight the preferred mode of transportation. To effectively navigate this intricate landscape, it is crucial to understand the estimated shipping schedules, available sea freight services, applicable procedures, and the significance of the Certificate of Origin (CO) form EUR1. Additionally, exploring the top commodities traded between Germany and Vietnam provides valuable insights into the economic dynamics of this bilateral exchange.
Estimated Shipping Schedules
The estimated shipping schedule from Germany to Vietnam varies depending on the port of origin and destination. Here is a general overview:
- Berlin, Hamburg, Frankfurt, and Bremen Port to Ho Chi Minh: 32-40 days
- Frankfurt, Hamburg, Berlin, and Bremen Port to Hai Phong: 35-43 days
- Hamburg, Berlin, Frankfurt, and Bremen Port to Da Nang: 32-40 days
The estimated shipping schedule from Vietnam to Germany is similar, with transit times ranging from 32 to 43 days, depending on the port of origin and destination.
Sea Freight Services
TT Meridian offers a comprehensive range of sea freight services from Germany to Vietnam and vice versa, catering to the diverse needs of importers and exporters. These services include:
Less than Container Load (LCL): This option is ideal for smaller shipments with a volume under 15 cubic meters (CBM). TT Meridian consolidates cargo from multiple customers into a single container, ensuring cost-effectiveness.
Full Container Load (FCL): For larger shipments exceeding 15 CBM, FCL provides exclusive use of a container, offering enhanced security and protection.
Door-to-port: TT Meridian handles the entire logistics process, picking up cargo from your door and delivering it to the port of destination.
Port-to-door: This service focuses on the port-to-port transportation of goods, while the customer arranges for pickup and delivery at the respective ports.
Procedures
The procedures for sea freight from Germany to Vietnam depend on the Incoterms agreed upon in the contract between you and your supplier. Incoterms are standardized terms of sale that define the responsibilities of the buyer and seller in an international commercial transaction. Common Incoterms for sea freight include:
- Free on Board (FOB): The seller’s responsibility ends when the goods are loaded onto the ship at the port of origin.
- Cost and Freight (C&F): The seller pays for the cost of transporting the goods to the port of destination.
- Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF): The seller pays for the cost of transporting the goods to the port of destination, as well as insurance for the goods.
TT Meridian can guide you through the intricacies of Incoterms and ensure that the agreed-upon terms are effectively implemented.
Certificate of Origin (CO) form EUR1
To reduce import tax and duty, importers in Vietnam may need to obtain a CO form EUR1. This certificate verifies that the goods were produced in Germany and are eligible for preferential tariff treatment under the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA). TT Meridian can assist you in obtaining the necessary CO form EUR1 and ensuring compliance with customs regulations.
Top Commodities
The trade between Germany and Vietnam encompasses a diverse range of products, reflecting the economic strengths and needs of both countries. Here are some of the top commodities traded between the two nations:
Imports from Germany to Vietnam:
- Components
- Textiles and garments
- Footwear
- Seafood
- Processed agricultural products
- Wooden products and wood products
- Plastic products
Exports from Vietnam to Germany:
- Machinery and equipment for production
- Medicine
- Chemicals
In addition to these established commodities, emerging export and import categories are gaining traction, such as meat and fish, alcoholic beverages, umbrellas and walking sticks, and plaiting products.
Conclusion
Sea freight plays a pivotal role in facilitating the thriving trade relationship between Germany and Vietnam. TT Meridian stands as a trusted partner, offering a comprehensive suite of sea freight services, expert guidance on procedures and regulations, and assistance with obtaining the necessary documentation. By leveraging TT Meridian’s expertise, importers and exporters can navigate the complexities of international trade with confidence, ensuring the smooth and efficient movement of goods between these two dynamic economies.
