Customs Clearance Services at Cat Lai Port – Reliable Port Logistics by AlphaTrans

November 14, 2025

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Customs Clearance Service at Cat Lai Port

As the busiest container port in Vietnam, Cat Lai Port (Ho Chi Minh City) handles over 50% of the country’s total container throughput. Every day, thousands of containers arrive and depart through this gateway — making efficient customs clearance crucial for businesses trading internationally.

At AlphaTrans, we provide professional Customs Clearance Services at Cat Lai Port, offering fast, compliant, and end-to-end logistics solutions for importers and exporters.
Our licensed brokers are based on-site to handle declarations, inspections, and delivery coordination, ensuring smooth operations and zero demurrage.

Table of Contents

I. Why Customs Clearance at Cat Lai Port Is So Important

Delays at Cat Lai can result in:

Demurrage and detention fees charged by shipping lines
Production delays for import-dependent manufacturers
Shipment backlogs during peak logistics seasons

Common issues include:

Incorrect HS code classification
Missing import/export documentation
Congestion during customs inspection
Coordination gaps between forwarders and customs offices

That’s why businesses rely on AlphaTrans, a professional Vietnam customs broker, to handle customs procedures accurately and efficiently.

II. Overview of Customs Operations at Cat Lai Port

Cat Lai Port, managed by Saigon Newport Corporation (SNP), is Vietnam’s largest and most advanced container terminal, equipped with the VNACCS/VCIS electronic customs system.

Main Customs Offices:

Tan Cang – Cat Lai Customs Branch (HCMC Customs Department)
Zone 1: FCL & LCL container clearance area
Zone 2: Reefer and hazardous cargo inspection area
Bonded warehouse and CFS yard customs offices

Each area requires separate coordination between shipping lines, terminals, and customs authorities — something AlphaTrans manages daily.

III. AlphaTrans – Professional Customs Clearance at Cat Lai Port

With more than 10 years of experience in import/export logistics, AlphaTrans provides full-service customs clearance and freight forwarding for Cat Lai Port cargo.

Our Core Services Include:

Import & Export Customs Declaration via VNACCS/VCIS
HS Code classification and tax estimation
Inspection coordination with customs officers and port authorities
Preparation of customs documentation (Invoice, Packing List, C/O, B/L)
Import License & Specialized Permit Application
Container release coordination with shipping lines
Post-clearance compliance consulting

We handle both FCL and LCL shipments, including general cargo, reefer containers, and project machinery.

AlphaTrans provides full-service Customs Clearance Services at Cat Lai Port

IV. Step-by-Step Customs Clearance Process at Cat Lai Port

Step 1 – Document Preparation

We collect all necessary shipment documents (invoice, packing list, C/O, bill of lading, etc.) for pre-clearance review.

Step 2 – Customs Declaration

AlphaTrans submits the declaration electronically via VNACCS, applying the correct HS code and duty rates.

Step 3 – Customs Channel Classification

Shipments are categorized into:

Green Channel – automatic release
Yellow Channel – document verification
Red Channel – physical inspection

Our on-site brokers coordinate directly with customs inspectors to minimize waiting time.

Step 4 – Tax & Duty Payment

Import duties and VAT are calculated and paid electronically to ensure timely release.

Step 5 – Container Release & Delivery

After clearance, we manage container pick-up, trucking, and delivery to the client’s factory or warehouse.

V. Required Documents for Cat Lai Customs Clearance

Document	Purpose
Commercial Invoice	Declares goods’ value and trade terms
Packing List	Confirms item details and quantity
Bill of Lading	Proof of sea shipment
Certificate of Origin (C/O)	Enables tariff preferences
Import/Export License	Required for controlled goods
Customs Declaration Form	Submitted via VNACCS system
Specialized Certificates	e.g. food safety, health, conformity

AlphaTrans verifies each document to ensure compliance with customs and port regulations.

VI. Types of Cargo We Handle Customs Clearance Services at Cat Lai Port

We specialize in customs clearance for:

Consumer goods and electronics
Industrial machinery and equipment
Chemicals and raw materials
Reefer cargo (seafood, fruit, pharmaceuticals)
Automotive parts and mechanical components
Project and oversized cargo

Our brokers are trained in handling both import and export procedures for these goods categories.

With AlphaTrans, you gain a trusted logistics partner who understands the customs system inside out.

VII. Advantages of Choosing AlphaTrans Customs Clearance Services at Cat Lai Port

✅ On-Site Customs Brokers

Our licensed customs team operates directly inside the Cat Lai customs area, ensuring real-time communication and immediate issue resolution.

✅ Fast Turnaround

With daily experience at the port, we know how to accelerate customs procedures and avoid unnecessary delays.

✅ Integrated Logistics Solutions

AlphaTrans combines customs clearance, trucking, and sea freight forwarding for a one-stop logistics service.

✅ Cost Transparency

We provide clear, itemized quotes — no hidden fees or unexpected charges.

✅ Compliance Guarantee

Our declarations strictly comply with Vietnam’s Customs Law, Circular 38/2015/TT-BTC, and trade regulations.

VIII. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How long does customs clearance take at Cat Lai Port?
Green channel shipments clear within 1 day, while inspections may take 2–3 working days.

Q2: Can AlphaTrans assist with both import and export procedures?
Yes, we provide full customs clearance for both imports and exports, including container stuffing/unstuffing.

Q3: What if my shipment is held by customs for inspection?
Our on-site team coordinates directly with customs officers to expedite physical inspections.

Q4: Does AlphaTrans provide trucking after clearance?
Absolutely. We provide container trucking from Cat Lai to all southern industrial zones (Binh Duong, Dong Nai, Long An).

IX. Partner with AlphaTrans for Customs Clearance at Cat Lai Port

For businesses importing and exporting through Cat Lai Port, time and accuracy are crucial.
From declaration to delivery, we handle every step with precision — ensuring your goods move fast, legally, and efficiently.

📞 Contact AlphaTrans today for professional Customs Clearance Services at Cat Lai Port, integrated with freight forwarding and trucking.