Elevator Import Procedures into Vietnam| Comprehensive Guide

Importing elevators is far more complex than handling ordinary goods. To navigate the process effectively, you must have a firm grasp of HS codes (Harmonized System Code), tax structures, quality inspection procedures, and specific customs regulations. Below, Xiolift Vietnam provides detailed information for every step to ensure a smooth importation process into Vietnam.

1. Elevator Import Policy

Elevators are not classified as goods prohibited from import or export under Vietnamese regulations.

However, because elevators are categorized as specialized transport equipment, the import process must strictly adhere to various legal frameworks. This ranges from tax obligations (VAT, import duty) to safety standards regulated by the Ministry of Labour, Invalids, and Social Affairs (MOLISA). Elevators belong to the list of products and goods that must undergo quality inspection according to the regulations in the Circular of the Ministry of Labour, Invalids, and Social Affairs (QCVN 02:2019/BLĐTBXH or replacement/amended regulations).

If imported elevators are used previously, it is necessary to ensure compliance with the conditions prescribed by the government.

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2. Identifying the HS Code for elevators

The Harmonized System (HS) Code facilitates global goods classification. Accurately determining the correct HS Code is critical, as it dictates import duties, preferential policies, and customs procedures. Common HS Codes for elevators and components include:

• 84281031: Passenger elevators.
• 84281039: Other types of elevators.
• Other specific codes are applied to spare parts and components.

Note: Misdeclaring an HS Code can result in customs delays, administrative fines, or even severe penalties that can be several times higher than the original tax obligation.

3. Import Duty and Value Added Tax (VAT)

Import duties and VAT depend heavily on the HS Code and the origin of the goods. Below are the calculation formulas:

• Import Duty = CIF Value x % Tax rate
• VAT = (CIF + Import Duty) x % VAT

Preferential tariff rates (depending on origin and type) and VAT (typically 8% or 10%) are applied accordingly. If goods are imported from countries with Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with Vietnam and are accompanied by a valid Certificate of Origin (C/O), a 0% preferential duty rate may apply.

4. Required documentation for Elevator Importation

When performing customs clearance and quality inspections, importing enterprises must prepare comprehensive documents, including:

• Customs Declaration
• Commercial Invoice
• Bill of Lading
• Packing List
• Sales Contract
• Registration dossier for quality inspection of imported goods
• Certificate of Origin (C/O), to qualify for tax incentives.
• Product Catalogue, Certificate of Quality (C/Q), and technical specifications (if available).

Note: Documentation regarding quality and safety inspections is mandatory. Elevators and all safety components must undergo rigorous testing and inspection before customs clearance.

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5. Detailed Elevator Import Process

Step 1: Submit the Customs Declaration

Once all necessary documents are prepared, the customs declaration is submitted through the VNACCS/VCIS (Vietnam Acceptance and Customs Clearance System).

Step 2: Register for State Quality Inspection

In accordance with regulations, the importing enterprise must register for quality inspection with specialized agencies designated by the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA), following Decree No. 154/2018/ND-CP.

• The dossier includes the registration form and copies of import documents (Commercial Invoice, Bill of Lading, Certificate of Quality).
• Upon successful submission, the enterprise receives a Quality Inspection Registration Certificate, which is a vital document for the customs clearance process.

Step 3: Declaration processing and Customs routing (Green/Yellow/Red)

The enterprise submits the import dossier along with the quality inspection registration. The shipment will then be categorized into one of three customs routes:

• Green: Automatic clearance.
• Yellow/Red: Customs officials will conduct a documentary review or a physical inspection of the goods at the port.

Step 4: Customs Clearance

After fulfilling all tax obligations and receiving approval from Customs, the goods are officially cleared and permitted to be transported to the warehouse.

Step 5: Transportation, Storage, and Installation in Vietnam

The registered quality inspection organization will conduct a physical inspection of the shipment. If the requirements are met, the enterprise will be issued a Notice of Satisfactory State Quality Inspection Results for Imported Goods.

Once the elevator installation is complete at the project site, the enterprise must perform an Initial Safety Technical Inspection before the system is officially commissioned for public use.

Note: The entire process, from importation to installation, must be executed by competent entities that strictly adhere to Vietnam’s current safety technical standards and regulations.

6. Key Considerations for Elevator Importation

• Mandatory Compliance: Import duties and quality inspections are non-negotiable requirements that must be strictly followed.
• Second-hand Equipment: For used elevators, the equipment must still be within the permitted service life.
• HS Code Accuracy: Accurately declaring the HS Code is critical to avoiding administrative fines, customs delays, or the incurrence of unnecessary operational costs.
• Conformity Documentation: A complete dossier of Certificates of Conformity must be prepared; otherwise, the shipment will be denied customs clearance.

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Conclusion

Importing elevators into Vietnam requires strict compliance with numerous regulations, ranging from HS Code, tax, and customs documentation to quality inspections. A thorough understanding and careful preparation will help you mitigate risks while optimizing both time and costs. If you need professional support for importation services, partnering with an experienced entity is highly recommended to ensure a smooth process.

We hope that the above information is sufficient and useful to help you clearly understand the elevator import process. For any inquiries or service requests, valued customers and partners are invited to contact XIOLIFT Vietnam via our Hotline: 0789 35 3838. Our experts are ready to provide detailed product information and consult on the most optimal installation solutions for genuine elevators and escalators.