Hair Business
Import Hair from Vietnam to Europe: What to Know About Shipping and Taxes
If you’re planning to import hair from Vietnam to Europe for your salon, understanding shipping times, shipping costs, and tax regulations is crucial. Delays, unexpected duties, and compliance issues can hurt your profits and customer satisfaction. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to ensure smooth, predictable imports.
1. Why Import Hair from Vietnam?
Vietnamese hair is globally renowned for its:
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High quality: Strong, thick strands with a natural shine.
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Versatility: Easily colored or styled.
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Ethical sourcing: Mostly donated voluntarily in rural areas.
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Competitive pricing: Lower cost compared to European or Brazilian hair.
Many EU salon owners now rely on Vietnamese suppliers for their bulk extensions and custom orders.
2. Average Shipping Times from Vietnam to Europe
Shipping times vary based on the delivery method:
| Shipping Method | Estimated Delivery Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Express (DHL, FedEx, UPS) | 4–7 business days | Urgent small orders |
| Standard Air Freight | 7–12 business days | Medium to large orders |
| Sea Freight | 25–40 days | Large bulk orders with low urgency |
💡 Tip: Always ask your supplier about their current lead time before placing an order. Lunar New Year (January–February) can cause delays.
3. Shipping Costs to Europe
Shipping cost depends on the shipping method, package weight, and delivery location. Here’s a general estimate:
| Shipping Method | Weight | Estimated Cost (to EU) |
|---|---|---|
| Express (DHL/FedEx/UPS) | 1–5 kg | $45–$100 USD |
| Standard Air Freight | 5–20 kg | $100–$250 USD |
| Sea Freight (LCL/FCL) | 20+ kg | $150–$400+ USD |
📦 Note: Some Vietnamese suppliers offer discounted or fixed shipping fees for bulk orders. Always ask for a quote before confirming your purchase.
4. Taxes and Import Duties for EU Buyers
As an EU business, you must understand the tax liabilities when importing hair from Vietnam:
a. Customs Duties
Most hair products (classified under HS Code 6703) fall under a duty range of 5–8%, depending on your EU country.
b. Value Added Tax (VAT)
You’ll be required to pay VAT upon import, typically 20–25%, based on your country’s rate.
| Country | VAT Rate |
|---|---|
| France | 20% |
| Germany | 19% |
| Italy | 22% |
| Sweden | 25% |
| Netherlands | 21% |
✅ Note: If you’re VAT-registered, you can reclaim the VAT later.
5. How to Minimize Delays and Unexpected Costs
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Work with experienced Vietnamese suppliers familiar with EU documentation.
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Ensure correct labeling and invoices to avoid customs clearance issues.
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Confirm Incoterms (FOB, CIF, DDP) with your supplier — DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) includes customs fees, making things simpler for buyers.
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Track shipments through courier portals or shipping partners.
6. Recommended Shipping Strategy for EU Salon Owners
| Order Size | Shipping Method | Suggested Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| < 5 kg | Express (DHL/FedEx) | 1–2 times/month |
| 5–20 kg | Air Freight | Monthly or bi-monthly |
| > 20 kg | Sea Freight | Every 2–3 months |
This approach helps you balance cost-efficiency and delivery timelines.
Conclusion
Understanding shipping costs, timelines, and import taxes when you import hair from Vietnam to Europe helps you stay ahead in your business. Choose reliable suppliers, clarify shipping and customs terms, and budget for duties and VAT. With the right strategy, sourcing hair from Vietnam can be both cost-effective and smooth.
🔗 Ready to import?
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