CHECK-LIST TO PREPARE BEFORE EXPORTING GOODS TO EUROPE
The European market (EU) is one of the most potential destinations for Vietnamese goods, thanks to the EVFTA Free Trade Agreement that brings many tax incentives. However, this is also a demanding market with high standards and strict processes. Businesses need to prepare carefully to avoid risks. Below is an important checklist that you should refer to before exporting to Europe:
✅ 1. Carefully understand EU regulations and standards
Europe has very strict regulations on quality, food hygiene and safety, environment and packaging.
For example, agricultural and aquatic products must meet SPS (Sanitary and Phytosanitary) standards.
Industrial products must comply with CE Marking regulations.
✅ 2. Check and prepare all export documents
Important documents required:
- Foreign trade contract (Sales Contract)
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
- Certificate of origin (C/O form EUR.1) to enjoy EVFTA incentives
- Certificate of quality, quarantine (if any)
✅ 3. Choose the appropriate mode of transport
By sea: suitable for large quantities of goods, cheaper cost.
By air: suitable for high-value goods, needing fast delivery.
By road/rail: for intra-EU transit goods.
✅ 4. Ensure proper packaging and labeling
Packaging must be safe, easy to transport, and able to withstand long journeys.
Product labels must clearly state: product name, ingredients, origin, traceability code, language suitable for the import market.
✅ 5. Carefully check customs and tariff procedures
Enterprises need to clearly understand the HS Code of the goods to apply the correct code.
Take advantage of tariff incentives from EVFTA by declaring the correct C/O.
✅ 6. Make a logistics plan and prepare for risks
Estimate logistics costs: transportation, storage, insurance, customs fees.
Always buy cargo insurance to avoid losses.
Choose a reputable logistics partner with experience exporting to Europe.
=> Conclusion
Exporting to the EU is not only an opportunity to expand the market but also a challenge in terms of quality and logistics management. A carefully prepared plan will help businesses save costs, deliver on time and enhance their reputation with European customers.
==> Heart Logistics is ready to accompany Vietnamese enterprises in all export stages, from customs procedures, international transportation to optimal logistics solutions.