
As Vietnam’s busiest international airport, Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) handles thousands of import and export air shipments daily.However, the customs clearance process for air cargo here is highly regulated and time-sensitive.
At AlphaTrans, we specialize in providing Customs Clearance Services at Tan Son Nhat Airport, offering fast, accurate, and fully compliant handling for all air freight shipments.
Our licensed customs brokers are stationed directly at the airport, ensuring smooth coordination with customs authorities and minimizing clearance time for importers and exporters.
Table of Contents
I. Why Customs Clearance at Tan Son Nhat Airport Requires Expertise
Air freight shipments differ from sea cargo — they move faster, have tighter delivery windows, and often include high-value or time-critical goods such as electronics, medical equipment, and perishables.
Because of this, even a short delay in customs clearance can cause major financial and operational losses.
Common Challenges at Tan Son Nhat Airport:
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Strict inspection procedures by Ho Chi Minh City Customs Department
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Limited clearance windows (especially for perishable goods)
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HS code misclassification leading to re-declaration
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Incomplete documentation or missing import permits
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Congestion during peak logistics seasons
With AlphaTrans, importers and exporters benefit from on-site customs experts who handle procedures quickly and efficiently — ensuring cargo is released on time, every time.
II. Overview of Customs Procedures at Tan Son Nhat Airport
All import/export air shipments passing through Tan Son Nhat are processed under the VNACCS/VCIS electronic customs system.
The airport customs area includes several specialized terminals:
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Tan Son Nhat Cargo Terminal (TCS) – general air freight
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Saigon Cargo Service (SCSC) – high-volume and express cargo
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Vietnam Airlines Terminal (VNA) – special and priority shipments
Each terminal has dedicated customs officers who manage inspections, document verification, and clearance.
AlphaTrans works directly with all terminals for fast, coordinated customs processing.
III. AlphaTrans – Professional Customs Clearance Partner at Tan Son Nhat Airport
With more than a decade of experience in air freight and customs brokerage, AlphaTrans provides complete customs declaration and clearance services for all types of air shipments.
Our Core Customs Services Include:
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Customs Declaration via VNACCS system
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HS Code verification and duty calculation
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Import/export documentation preparation
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Inspection coordination for Yellow/Red channel shipments
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Handling of specialized goods (medical, chemical, perishables, etc.)
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Tax and VAT payment support
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Cargo release and final delivery to consignee warehouse
We operate 24/7 at Tan Son Nhat Airport to ensure fast turnaround times for urgent air freight shipments.
IV. Step-by-Step Air Cargo Customs Clearance Process
Step 1 – Document Preparation
We collect and verify all shipment documentation (invoice, packing list, AWB, import license, etc.) before cargo arrival.
Step 2 – Customs Declaration
AlphaTrans files your declaration electronically through the VNACCS/VCIS system, ensuring accurate HS codes and tax rates.
Step 3 – Customs Inspection (If Required)
For Red or Yellow channel cargo, our brokers assist customs officers with physical or document inspection directly inside the terminal.
Step 4 – Tax Payment
We calculate and process import duties and VAT electronically to accelerate the release process.
Step 5 – Cargo Release & Delivery
Once cleared, AlphaTrans arranges inland trucking or express delivery to the consignee’s warehouse within the same day.
V. Required Documents for Air Freight Customs Clearance
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | Declares cargo value and purpose |
| Packing List | Specifies goods’ weight and quantity |
| Airway Bill (AWB) | Proof of air shipment |
| Import License (if required) | MOIT or MOH approval |
| Certificate of Origin (C/O) | Enables preferential tariff |
| Customs Declaration Form | Filed electronically |
| Specialized Certificates | e.g. Food safety, medical device registration, etc. |
AlphaTrans ensures every document meets customs and airline requirements before submission.
VI. Types of Air Cargo We Handle Customs Clearance Service at Tan Son Nhat Airport
We provide customs clearance for all air freight categories:
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Electronics and semiconductors
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Medical and healthcare equipment
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Pharmaceuticals and vaccines
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Fresh seafood and perishable food products
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Fashion, textiles, and accessories
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Express courier and e-commerce parcels
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Dangerous goods (DG) – with special permit
Each cargo type requires different clearance documentation and handling — which our experts manage with full compliance.
VII. Advantages of Choosing AlphaTrans Customs Clearance Service at Tan Son Nhat Airport
✅ On-Site Customs Team
Our licensed brokers are stationed directly inside Tan Son Nhat’s terminals for on-spot declaration and clearance.
✅ Fast & Accurate Processing
We use VNACCS automation and direct connections with customs officers to speed up clearance and reduce manual errors.
✅ 24/7 Operations
Air cargo arrives any time — we work round-the-clock to ensure no delay, including weekends and holidays.
✅ End-to-End Logistics
From air freight forwarding to customs clearance and final delivery, AlphaTrans manages your entire logistics process.
✅ Full Compliance
We stay updated with the latest customs, trade, and aviation regulations to ensure your shipments always meet Vietnam Customs standards.
VIII. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How long does air freight customs clearance take at Tan Son Nhat?
Most Green channel shipments are cleared within 4–8 hours, while inspected cargo may take up to 1–2 working days.
Q2: Can AlphaTrans clear express courier shipments?
Yes, we handle customs clearance for DHL, FedEx, UPS, and EMS shipments through express terminals.
Q3: Do you provide trucking after clearance?
Absolutely. We offer same-day delivery to Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Duong, Dong Nai, and nearby provinces.
Q4: What if my shipment requires inspection by MOH or MOIT?
AlphaTrans assists with special permits and coordination with relevant ministries to ensure quick approval.
IX. Partner with AlphaTrans for Customs Clearance at Tan Son Nhat Airport
When time matters, you need a trusted partner who can move your air cargo fast, accurately, and legally.
With AlphaTrans, you benefit from professional customs brokers stationed directly at Tan Son Nhat Airport, working 24/7 to ensure your cargo clears customs without delay.
📞 Contact AlphaTrans today to experience seamless Customs Clearance Services at Tan Son Nhat Airport, fully integrated with air freight forwarding and inland logistics.

