Air Cargo Booking from Nội Bài (HAN) to Los Angeles (LAX): A Complete Guide
In today’s global economy, air freight plays a vital role in connecting businesses across continents. Nội Bài International Airport (HAN), located in Hanoi, is the main gateway for northern Vietnam’s imports and exports. On the other side of the Pacific, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) stands as one of the busiest and most important cargo hubs in the United States, handling massive volumes of goods from Asia.
This guide provides a step-by-step overview of how to book and manage air cargo shipments from Hanoi to Los Angeles, including the booking process, critical considerations, and supporting logistics services.
The distance between Hanoi and Los Angeles is significant, but thanks to air transport, goods can reach the U.S. in just 16–20 hours of flight time (often with one or two stopovers). Compared to ocean freight, which may take three to four weeks, air freight offers unparalleled speed.
Airlines operate on fixed schedules with strict handling standards, making air cargo a highly dependable mode of transport. For businesses that rely on just-in-time delivery, air freight minimizes risks of delay.
Air freight services can handle a wide variety of shipments, including:
Perishables such as fresh produce, seafood, and flowers.
High-value goods like electronics, precision instruments, and medical equipment.
Hazardous materials (with proper documentation and compliance).
Before starting the booking process, shippers should have the following details ready:
Type of cargo: General, perishable, or dangerous goods.
Weight and dimensions: Crucial for accurate cost calculation.
Destination address: The complete delivery location in Los Angeles.
Several international carriers connect Hanoi with Los Angeles, usually via stopovers in Asia:
Vietnam Airlines Cargo – offers services from Hanoi to the U.S. with transits in Tokyo or Seoul.
Korean Air Cargo – strong presence in trans-Pacific freight, with efficient connections via Seoul.
Cathay Pacific Cargo – transits through Hong Kong, known for reliability.
EVA Air Cargo – connects via Taipei, often competitive in pricing.
Freight forwarders simplify the process and provide value-added services, such as:
Advising the best routes and carriers.
Providing quotations and negotiating rates.
Handling export documents and customs clearance.
Offering door-to-door solutions if needed.
Once an airline or agent is selected, the steps typically include:
Submit shipment details (weight, volume, type).
Receive and confirm a quotation.
Make payment or deposit.
Obtain the Air Waybill (AWB) – the official shipping document.
Shippers must ensure the goods are ready before departure:
Secure packaging: Use pallets, crates, or cartons designed for air transport.
Proper labeling: Include consignee/shipper details, handling instructions, and hazard labels if applicable.
Documentation: Ensure accuracy to avoid customs delays.
While air freight is fast, delays may occur due to:
Adverse weather conditions.
Customs inspections.
Congested schedules during peak seasons.
It is recommended to book shipments at least one week in advance of the intended delivery date.
Air freight charges are calculated based on chargeable weight:
If cargo is bulky but light → calculated by volume weight.
If cargo is heavy but compact → calculated by actual weight.
Proper paperwork is essential. Key documents include:
Commercial Invoice – details of goods and transaction.
Packing List – description and packaging details.
Export/import permits – if required for regulated goods.
Air Waybill (AWB) – issued by the airline or forwarder.
Because shipments often involve high-value goods, it is strongly advised to purchase cargo insurance to safeguard against loss, theft, or damage.
Third-party logistics (3PL) companies offer end-to-end services including pick-up, customs clearance, warehousing, and delivery at the destination.
Warehouses located near Nội Bài and Los Angeles airports provide temporary storage, ensuring flexibility in case of early arrivals or customs delays.
Most airlines and forwarders now provide real-time tracking tools (via apps or websites) based on AWB numbers, allowing shippers to monitor cargo status throughout the journey.
Plan ahead – Avoid last-minute bookings, especially during peak export seasons (September to December).
Select the right service – For perishable or urgent goods, request “priority” or “express” handling.
Monitor shipment status – Use AWB tracking to stay updated.
Stay in touch with your freight forwarder – Ensure quick communication if any issues arise.
Shipping goods by air from Nội Bài (HAN) to Los Angeles (LAX) provides a fast, reliable, and secure logistics solution for businesses expanding into the U.S. market. While air freight may be more costly than ocean shipping, the benefits—speed, reliability, and reduced risk—make it an ideal choice for time-sensitive and high-value shipments.
By choosing reputable airlines, working with experienced freight forwarders, and preparing documents carefully, businesses can ensure their cargo reaches Los Angeles efficiently and safely.
Air cargo is not just a transportation option—it’s a strategic investment in global competitiveness and customer satisfaction.