Southeast Asia · Import guide
🇻🇳 Importing machinery into Vietnam
Vietnam regulates used machinery imports under Decision 18/2019, generally allowing used machines up to about 10 years old, with some sectors permitting older units (15–20 years) or machines retaining at least 85% of rated capacity. Confirm the current rule for your machine and use case.
- Used age limit
- ≈ 10 years (some sectors 15–20; older allowed if ≥85% capacity)
- Emission requirement
- Per national regulation
- Inspection / conformity
- Per Decision 18/2019/QĐ-TTg
- Main ports
- Hai Phong, Ho Chi Minh City (Cat Lai)
Reviewed 2026-06. Rules change — always reconfirm before committing a shipment.
Good to know
- Capacity-retention exemptions can allow older machines — ask us to check.
- Hai Phong (north) and Cat Lai/HCMC (south) are the main entry ports.
Typical export documents
We prepare and coordinate these for every shipment:
- Commercial invoice & packing list
- Importer-Exporter Code (IEC) & bill of lading
- Inspection / conformity certificate (Per Decision 18/2019/QĐ-TTg)
- Certificate of origin & insurance
Vietnam — questions
Answers, straight up
Can you import used heavy machinery into Vietnam?
Vietnam regulates used machinery imports under Decision 18/2019, generally allowing used machines up to about 10 years old, with some sectors permitting older units (15–20 years) or machines retaining at least 85% of rated capacity. Confirm the current rule for your machine and use case.
What is the used-equipment age limit for Vietnam?
As of 2026-06: ≈ 10 years (some sectors 15–20; older allowed if ≥85% capacity). Age is counted from the year of manufacture. Confirm the live figure for your machine type before committing.
What inspection or certificate does Vietnam require?
Per Decision 18/2019/QĐ-TTg. We arrange the required inspection or conformity certificate as part of the export process.