Plastic containers, a familiar item in daily life, are widely used for many different purposes such as storing food, personal items, cosmetics, etc. If you are planning to import plastic containerses to Vietnam for business, you will surely be interested in the procedures for importing plastic containerses, including issues such as current import tax rates, tax incentives (if any), and specific import processes.

Plastic food containers have become an integral part of everyday life, offering many practical benefits. They are highly flexible, effectively waterproof, and often designed to be transparent, making it easy for users to recognize the quality of the food inside. Plastic containers are also very compact, which is convenient for storing takeaway food, especially when hosting outdoor parties or picnics. Additionally, they can withstand high temperatures, making it easier to store food in the refrigerator. The plastic containers also has a simple design, with an easy-to-use lid and body, suitable for all ages.
With a variety of sizes and capacities, plastic containers can hold a variety of foods, from vegetables to cooked foods. The sturdy lid also helps to stack plastic containerses on top of each other to save storage space. In terms of economy, the price of plastic food containers is very affordable, suitable for the economic conditions of many families. For restaurants and eateries, single-use plastic containers also help save costs and are convenient for packaging takeaway food.
However, it is also important to keep in mind the use of safe and BPA-free plastic containers to ensure health. PP and PE plastic containers are often preferred because of their safety and recyclability. When using plastic containers, it is necessary to clean them thoroughly before and after use to avoid bacterial contamination. It is also recommended to avoid placing plastic containers near high heat sources to prevent deformation or decomposition of plastic substances.
In the context of increasing environmental concerns, the use of reusable plastic containers also contributes to reducing plastic waste and protecting the ecosystem. Choosing quality plastic containerses not only protects health but also shows responsibility for the living environment. Therefore, the use of plastic containers in daily life should be considered intelligently and responsibly.
Legal policies when carrying out procedures for importing plastic containerses
- Circular 38/2015/TT-BTC dated 25/3/2015; amended and supplemented 39/2018/TT-BTC dated 20/04/2018.
- Decree No. 69/2018/ND-CP dated 15/05/2018
- Decree No. 15/2018/ND-CP dated 02/02/2018
- Decision No. 583/QD-TCHQ dated 22/03/2019
Pursuant to current legal regulations, plastic containerses are not on the list of goods banned from import and export. Therefore, the procedure for importing plastic containerses of all kinds is carried out like other common items. Particularly for used plastic containerses, the import is considered as importing scrap and requires a license.

What is the HS code and import tax rate for plastic containerses?
Determining HS codes is an indispensable step when importing goods. The exact HS code of the item will help you understand the relevant policies that need to be implemented for successful import.
For plastic products, you can refer to Decree 125/2017/ND-CP dated 16/11/2017 to determine the corresponding HS code.
Chapter 39: PLASTIC AND PLASTIC PRODUCTS
3924: Tableware, kitchenware, other household products and sanitary products, made of plastic
39249090: – – Other
Based on the current import and export tariff schedule, we can see that the following tax rates are applied:
- Preferential import tax: 22%
- Value Added Tax (VAT): 8%
- Special Preferential Import Tax (Form D): 0% (applicable to goods imported from Southeast Asian countries)
- Special Preferential Import Tax (Form E): 0% (applicable to goods imported from China)
- Special preferential import tax: 0% (applicable to goods imported from Japan)
Labeling of imported goods
The labeling of imported goods not only helps to trace the origin and responsible units but also supports stricter management of goods. In particular, this process is mandatory for batteries imported from abroad.
Label content
Decree No. 43/2017/ND-CP has clearly stipulated the content of labels for items. For batteries, the label should include exporter/importer information, product details, origin and other information in English or language with translation. Customs will thoroughly check the contents of the label during the import process.
Label Placement
The location of the label is equally important. Labels need to be affixed in a conspicuous position on the package such as cartons, wooden bales, product packaging. This saves time for inspection when importing batteries and other items.
For retail goods, the label needs to add manufacturer information, quantity, specifications, date of manufacture, and safety warnings.
Risks when labels are not in accordance with regulations
Failure to label or mislabel can lead to serious consequences such as fines under Article 22 of Decree 128/2020/ND-CP, loss of import tax incentives due to invalid certificate of origin, and the risk of loss and damage to goods due to lack of warning during transportation.

Procedures for importing plastic containerses
The dossier for import procedures for plastic containerses in particular, as well as other items in general, is specified in Circular 38/2015/TT-BTC dated 25/3/2015 and amended and supplemented by Circular 39/2018/TT-BTC dated 20/04/2018.
- Customs declaration
- Sale contract
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Bill of lading
- Announcement of food safety for food containers
- Certificate of origin (if any)
- Catalog (if any), and other documents if required by customs.
Plastic containerses import process
Step 1: Customs declaration
First, fully prepare import and export documents such as contracts, commercial invoices, packing lists, sea bills of lading, certificates of origin, arrival notices, and HS codes of plastic containers. Then, enter the declaration information into the customs system via the customs declaration software. Care should be taken when entering data to avoid errors, as this can be time-consuming and costly.
Step 2: Open a customs declaration
After the declaration is completed, the customs system will return the result of the channeling of the declaration. Print the declaration form and bring the dossier to the customs sub-department to open the declaration. Do this within 15 days of the declaration date to avoid penalties.
Step 3: Customs clearance of goods
Customs officers will check the dossier and accept customs clearance if there are no questions. After that, import taxes are paid so that the goods are cleared. In some cases, the goods may be released to be taken back to the storage warehouse.
Step 4: Transport and use the goods
Finally, proceed to liquidate the declaration and carry out procedures to bring the goods to the warehouse. Prepare delivery orders and pick-up slips at the port, and arrange vehicles to pick up goods. Note to avoid the situation that the declaration has been completed but there is still an order from the shipping line, so that the process can be completed smoothly and avoid loss of time and costs.
Understanding the procedures for importing plastic containerses not only helps businesses save time and costs but also ensures compliance with the law. Through this article, we hope you have gained a comprehensive view of the process and the steps required to carry out plastic containers import effectively.
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