Japan → Ho Chi Minh: service and transit time
Ho Chi Minh (Cat Lai / Cai Mep) is the gateway to southern Vietnam, with frequent direct services from Japan. Short transit times and plenty of sailings make it one of the easier destinations for tightening lead times. Transit is around 10–25 days, varying by carrier, schedule and season. Delays can occur due to weather, port congestion or omitted calls.
Besides the direct sailings, we can offer transhipment services that transfer at a nearby hub port. Transhipment takes longer than a direct sailing, but sailings are more frequent, space is easier to secure and the freight cost can be lower. Tell us whether you want to prioritise transit time or cost and we will adjust our proposal.
| Port of loading | Main Japanese ports (Yokohama, Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka/Kobe and others) |
|---|---|
| Port of discharge | Ho Chi Minh (VNSGN) / Vietnam, SE Asia |
| Transit time (guide) | 10–25 daysDelays can occur |
| Containers | 40HCFCLSOC |
Transit times are a guide for representative services and are not guaranteed. They differ by carrier and service, and delays can occur due to weather, port congestion or omitted calls. Confirmed schedules are provided with your quote.
40HC ocean freight rates to Ho Chi Minh and what moves them
Ho Chi Minh has frequent sailings from Japan and competition between carriers, so comparison produces real differences. Space tightens sharply before Tet (Lunar New Year) as factories rush shipments out, and rates rise with it. If you are shipping into that window, please talk to us early.
We compare rates from multiple carriers side by side and present the best available at that moment. Card payment is supported, so you can book without straining your cash flow.
Ports, customs and inland transport for Vietnam
Cat Lai and Cai Mep take different vessels. If you have a nominated terminal, please tell us at the time of booking.
We will guide you through the required documents and deadlines, so please ask even if this is your first shipment to Vietnam. For inland destinations, confirming drayage and onward transport in advance makes the schedule easier to plan.
SOC container also available
Equipment turns over well in South East Asia, so carrier-owned containers (COC) normally work.
Other routes in SE Asia
We also handle other routes to SE Asia. If the destination is not yet fixed, we will compare options on the all-in cost including the inland leg.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Japan to Ho Chi Minh take?
10–25 days is the guide. It varies with carrier schedules and peak-season congestion, and delays can occur due to weather, port congestion or omitted calls. Confirmed schedules are provided with your quote.
What is the difference between Cat Lai and Cai Mep?
Cai Mep is the deep-water outer port that takes larger vessels; Cat Lai is the inner terminal closer to the city. They handle different vessels, so please tell us at the time of booking if your consignee has a preference.
Is this a good choice when I need to tighten lead times?
Yes. There are many direct sailings from Japan and the transit is short, so it is one of the easier destinations on our list for compressing lead times.
What if my destination is around Hanoi?
For northern Vietnam, discharging at Haiphong usually keeps the inland cost down. We can compare the all-in cost of both.
What is the maximum payload of a 40HC?
Internal capacity is roughly 76 cubic metres and the maximum payload is up to 26.5 tonnes (this can differ by carrier and equipment). Send us your cargo details and we will advise the right container and an estimate.
Are quotes free? How can I pay?
Quotes are free. We accept credit cards (VISA / Mastercard / American Express / JCB). Once you have an account you can quote, book and manage shipments from My Page.
Japan to Ho Chi Minh 40HC, at today’s best rate
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