In today’s deeply interconnected world, maritime transport plays a vital role in global supply chains. Recently, the Tan Cang Hai Phong International Container Terminal (TC-HICT) welcomed the arrival of the ZIM Falcon – the first vessel on the ZIM E-Commerce Express (ZEX) service route. This marks the launch of the fastest ocean shipping route connecting Vietnam directly to the U.S. West Coast.
New Ocean Shipping Route Directly Connects Hai Phong to Los Angeles
Operated by Israeli shipping giant ZIM, the ZEX service is a premium express shipping route specifically designed for e-commerce and time-sensitive cargo. The journey begins at Tan Cang Cai Mep Port (Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province), passes through Hai Phong, and concludes at Yantain Port, Los Angeles.
With a total shipping time of just 17 days from Hai Phong to Los Angeles, this becomes the fastest sea freight route from Vietnam to the U.S. to date.
This strategic development significantly enhances Vietnam’s competitiveness in global logistics, particularly in exporting to one of the world’s largest and most dynamic consumer markets.
ZIM Falcon: A New Benchmark in Ocean Shipping Technology
The ZIM Falcon is among the newest and most advanced mother vessels in ZIM’s global fleet. ZIM ranks as the 9th largest ocean carrier in the world, operating a fleet capacity of over 722,000 TEU. The ZIM Falcon stretches 237.8 meters in length, with a capacity of 65,275 DWT (5,315 TEU), exemplifying cutting-edge advancements in maritime transport.
ZIM’s decision to introduce this premium service via Hai Phong demonstrates growing confidence in Northern Vietnam’s port infrastructure and the increasing relevance of TC-HICT in global ocean shipping.
TC-HICT: A Strategic Gateway in Northern Vietnam’s Ocean Shipping Route Network
TC-HICT is Northern Vietnam’s first deep-water port, operated through a joint venture between Saigon Newport Corporation and international partners including MOL (Japan), Wan Hai (Taiwan/China), and Itochu (Japan). Since its launch in 2018, TC-HICT has grown into a vital hub with:
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2 container berths spanning 750 meters
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Channel depth of 13.4 meters
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Turning basin width of 660 meters
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Capacity to handle vessels of up to 12,000 TEU and 132,000 DWT
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Annual cargo throughput of 1.1 million TEU
With this world-class infrastructure, TC-HICT is well-positioned to accommodate major international sea freight routes, strengthening trade and export capacity in Northern Vietnam.
Enhancing Vietnam’s Export Competitiveness via Ocean Shipping
The launch of the ZEX service offers major advantages for Vietnamese exporters. By significantly shortening shipping times to the U.S., businesses can reduce supply chain delays and better meet growing demand from global e-commerce platforms.
This direct ocean shipping route also enables manufacturers to bypass third-party transshipment hubs, lowering logistics costs and boosting profit margins. For many companies, this could be a game-changer in accessing U.S. distribution networks more efficiently.
Ocean Shipping Route Development: A Strategic Priority in Vietnam’s Global Integration
Currently, maritime transport is responsible for transporting over 90% of global trade by volume. With its long coastline and extensive port network, Vietnam holds strategic potential as a logistics hub for Southeast Asia.
Modernizing port infrastructure and attracting direct shipping lines like ZEX is a key part of Vietnam’s strategy to improve its standing in global supply chains, attract foreign investment, and expand trade relationships.
Conclusion: Vietnam’s Fastest Ocean Shipping Route Marks a New Era
The arrival of the ZIM Falcon at TC-HICT marks a significant milestone for Vietnam’s ocean shipping sector. As the fastest sea route from Vietnam to the United States, this development not only enhances Hai Phong’s status as a strategic logistics hub, but also opens new opportunities for exports, e-commerce, and regional economic growth.
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