Electric motors are essential components in a wide range of manufacturing industries, automation systems, and household appliances in Vietnam. As industrial production continues to grow, the demand for imported electric motors has increased significantly.

However, importing electric motors involves more than customs clearance. Depending on the motor type, businesses may also need to comply with Vietnam's regulations on Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) and Mandatory Energy Efficiency Labeling.

To help businesses streamline the import process while minimizing costs and compliance risks, Songwin International Logistics Vietnam has prepared this comprehensive guide.

1. HS Code Classification and Import Duties for Electric Motors

Determining the correct HS Code is the first and most important step, as it determines the applicable import duty rate and import regulations.

Electric motors are generally classified under Chapter 85, heading 8501.

💡 Cost-saving Tip:

If your electric motors are imported from countries or regions that have Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with Vietnam—such as China, South Korea, Japan, ASEAN member states, or the European Union—you should request the exporter to provide the appropriate Certificate of Origin (C/O) (e.g., Form E, Form AK, Form AJ, EUR.1, etc.) to enjoy preferential import duty rates, which may be reduced to 0%.

2. Import Regulations and Specialized Inspection Requirements

Not all electric motors are subject to specialized inspection. Businesses should distinguish between the following two cases.

Case 1: Motors Subject to Mandatory Energy Efficiency Testing and Energy Labeling

According to Decision No. 1725/QĐ-BCT, three-phase squirrel-cage induction motors with rated output from 0.75 kW to 150 kW are required to undergo:

• Energy efficiency performance testing; and

• Mandatory energy efficiency labeling

before being placed on the Vietnamese market.

Case 2: Motors Exempt from Energy Efficiency Labeling

The following motor types are generally exempt:

• Direct Current (DC) motors;

• Variable-speed motors (integrated with variable frequency drives/inverters);

• Motors designed for special applications, including:

  • Mining equipment;

  • Explosion-proof environments;

  • Medical equipment;

  • Other specialized industrial applications.

3. Customs Clearance Procedures for Importing New Electric Motors

For electric motors subject to mandatory energy labeling, the import process generally includes the following steps:

Step 1: Register for Energy Efficiency Testing

Submit the application to an energy efficiency testing laboratory designated by Vietnam's Ministry of Industry and Trade, such as:

• Quatest 1

• Quatest 3

• Vinacomin/Vinasonic (or other authorized testing organizations)

Step 2: Customs Declaration and Application for Goods Release to Warehouse

After the shipment arrives at the port:

• Submit the customs declaration;

• Apply for permission to transport the goods to your warehouse for preservation and sampling.

This helps businesses avoid unnecessary port storage and demurrage charges.

Step 3: Sample Collection and Laboratory Testing

Samples are delivered to the authorized laboratory for energy efficiency testing.

Once the test results meet the required standards, the testing certificate is submitted to Customs to complete the clearance process.

Step 4: Energy Efficiency Label Registration

Before the products are distributed in Vietnam, the importer must complete the energy efficiency labeling registration dossier and submit it to the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

⚠️ Note on Used Electric Motors

If importing used electric motors, businesses must comply with Decision No. 18/2019/QĐ-TTg, which generally requires:

• Equipment must not be more than 10 years old;

• A quality inspection certificate issued by an authorized inspection organization.

The import procedures for used motors are considerably more complex than those for brand-new products.

4. Required Import Documentation

The customs dossier generally includes:

• Import Customs Declaration

• Commercial Invoice

• Packing List

• Bill of Lading

• Certificate of Origin (C/O), if applicable

• Energy Efficiency Testing Registration Form (certified by the designated testing laboratory)

• Technical Documentation or Product Catalogue specifying:

  • Rated power

  • Voltage

  • Rotational speed

  • Other technical specifications

Comprehensive Electric Motor Import Solutions by Songwin International Logistics Vietnam

The procedures for energy efficiency testing and mandatory energy labeling can be time-consuming and complicated. Businesses unfamiliar with these regulations often face delays, additional costs, or administrative penalties.

As a trusted logistics partner, Songwin International Logistics Vietnam provides comprehensive import solutions that simplify the entire process.

Accurate HS Code Classification and Regulatory Consultation

Our specialists help determine the correct HS Code, identify whether your motor falls under mandatory energy labeling regulations, and recommend the most efficient customs clearance solution.

End-to-End Regulatory Compliance Support

We represent your business throughout the entire compliance process, including:

• Energy efficiency testing registration

• Sample coordination

• Test result collection

• Preparation and submission of energy labeling documentation to the Ministry of Industry and Trade

Fast Customs Clearance with Lower Logistics Costs

We assist in obtaining approval to move imported goods directly to your warehouse for preservation, helping reduce port storage, demurrage, and detention charges while accelerating customs clearance.

International Freight Solutions

We provide competitive international transportation services, including:

• Full Container Load (FCL)

• Less than Container Load (LCL)

• Cross-border trucking

• Air freight

from major manufacturing hubs such as China, Taiwan, Germany, Japan, and many other countries to Vietnam.

Partner with Songwin International Logistics Vietnam

At Songwin International Logistics Vietnam, we are committed to delivering professional logistics services with accuracy, compliance, and efficiency.

Whether you need assistance with HS code classification, customs clearance, energy efficiency testing, or international transportation, our experienced team is ready to support your business every step of the way.

Songwin International Logistics Vietnam – Dedicated Service. Precise Compliance. Efficient Logistics.