SHIPPING PROCEDURE FROM VIETNAM TO GHANA (AFRICA)

Ghana is one of the most politically stable and economically growing countries in West Africa, with strong import demand for various goods from Asia — especially Vietnam. Exporting to Ghana requires compliance with specific international and local regulations. This article outlines the complete shipping procedure, estimated costs, and key considerations to help Vietnamese businesses succeed in this promising market.

Let Unicorn Logistics guide you through the full shipping process from Vietnam to Ghana. If you're seeking a trusted freight forwarding partner from China or Vietnam to Africa, we’re here to help. We offer fast, reliable, and affordable logistics solutions.
📧 Contact: Eric@unicornlogs.com | 📞 Hotline: 0907 256 567 (Mr. Bắc – Eric, Sales Manager)

1. Where Are Ghana's Major Ports?

Tema Port
Located about 25–30 km east of the capital city, Accra, Tema Port is Ghana’s largest and busiest port, handling over 80% of the country’s import-export volume. It consists of 12 deep-water berths, handling vessels up to 366 meters long and 60,000 DWT. Terminal 3, managed by Meridian Port Services (a joint venture with APM Terminals), processes nearly 500,000 TEUs annually and operates 24/7. The port also connects inland destinations and landlocked neighbors like Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.

Takoradi Port
Located in the western part of Ghana, Takoradi Port is the second largest and specializes in the export of cocoa, bauxite, manganese, and oil equipment. It handles around 37% of the total cargo volume and 77% of Ghana's exports. With an expanded container terminal (16m depth), its capacity exceeds 2 million TEUs per year.
 

2. Modes of Shipping from Vietnam to Ghana

• Sea Freight (most common)

  • FCL (Full Container Load) – Best for large shipments; cost-effective

  • LCL (Less than Container Load) – Ideal for small shipments; shared container space

• Air Freight – Used for urgent or high-value goods; higher cost

3. Transit Time & Shipping Schedules

• Average sea transit time from Cat Lai (HCMC) or Hai Phong to Tema Port is 35–45 days, depending on the carrier and route.

• Common transshipment hubs: Singapore, Jebel Ali (UAE), or Salalah (Oman).

• It's recommended to book space 7–10 days in advance to avoid delays and container shortages.

4. Step-by-Step Shipping Process from Vietnam to Ghana

1. Quotation & Route Consultation
   Unicorn Logistics assesses your shipment details and proposes the most efficient route and cost-saving solution.

2. Order Confirmation
   Upon confirmation, the required documents are prepared to ensure smooth customs clearance.

3. Packing, Documentation & Customs Declaration in Vietnam
   Goods are packed according to international standards. Key documents include: Invoice, Packing List, Contract, C/O (if needed), and others. Customs declaration is done via the VNACCS system.

4. Delivery to Port, Booking & Loading
   Goods are transported from the warehouse to the export port. After the booking is secured, the shipment is assigned a container slot and shipping schedule.

5. International Transport & Monitoring
   Unicorn Logistics provides real-time tracking and updates during the shipping process.

6. Import Procedures in Ghana
   At Tema or Takoradi, local agents assist with customs clearance. This includes:

   • Submitting the Import Declaration Form (IDF) before cargo arrival

   • Customs clearance and tax payment

   • Possible inspection or permit requirements for specific products

5. Costs and Documentation to Expect

In Vietnam:

• Local fees: THC, documentation, loading/unloading

• Inland transport: Warehouse to port

• Ocean freight

• Special documents (e.g., C/O, inspection certificates)

In Ghana:

• Port handling fees, demurrage, and inland clearance

• Import Declaration Form (IDF)

• Import duties: 15–20% depending on HS code

• VAT: typically around 15%

• Additional costs: container storage, CTN/ECTN, ITS inspections, insurance, or manifest amendment

6. How to Calculate Freight Rates to Tema, Ghana

Sea Freight

• FCL (Full Container Load):
  Total freight cost = Container rate × Number of containers (or bills/shipments).

• LCL (Less than Container Load):
  Calculate shipment volume:
  Volume (m³) = (Length × Width × Height) × Quantity
  Compare volume to weight:

  • If 1 ton < 3 CBM: Considered heavy cargo, priced per KGS.

  • If 1 ton ≥ 3 CBM: Considered light cargo, priced per CBM.

  Conversion: 1 ton = 3 CBM; 1 CBM = 1000 kg.
  Cost calculation:

  • KGS cost = (Weight (kg) × Rate per CBM) / 1000

  • CBM cost = Shipment volume × Rate per CBM
    Note: Rate per CBM is determined by the international freight provider.

7. Common Export Goods from Vietnam to Ghana

• Processed foods: instant noodles, coffee, fish sauce

• Agricultural products: rice

• Construction materials: bricks, steel, timber

• Textiles, footwear, consumer goods

• Electronics, machinery, home appliances

8. About Unicorn Logistics

Unicorn Logistics is one of the leading Vietnamese freight forwarders, offering customized logistics solutions with a focus on cost-efficiency and compliance.

Our Services Include:

• International sea & air freight

• Domestic trucking, river, and rail transport

• Full-service customs clearance (Hanoi, HCMC, Da Nang, Hai Phong, and border gates)

• C/O issuance and HS code consultation

• Free logistics advice (taxes, shipping plans, trade policies)

• Document & contract consulting (includes free templates)

With experienced staff and transparent operations, Unicorn Logistics helps businesses reduce risk, save costs, and streamline their supply chain.
For further information, please contact us through: 
📧 Contact: Eric@unicornlogs.com
📱 Hotline:+84 0907 256 567 (Mr. Bắc – Eric, Sales Manager)