Vietnam’s logistics industry is currently experiencing one of its biggest disruptions in recent years. After FedEx officially ended its partnership with Song Bình and appointed Viettel Post as its nationwide network operating partner, many import-export businesses began facing serious issues in cargo handling and delivery operations.
Initially, this transition was viewed as a strategic move aimed at expanding cross-border logistics operations in Vietnam. Viettel Post officially replaced Song Bình as FedEx’s National Network Provider starting from April 26, 2026.
However, immediately after the transition phase, many businesses reported that shipments were being held at ALS, TCS, and SCSC warehouses. Some shipments could not be released despite having complete documentation. Meanwhile, storage fees continue to accumulate on a daily basis.
THE FEDEX LOGISTICS CRISIS IN VIETNAM
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HOW HAS FEDEX CHANGED ITS PARTNER IN VIETNAM?
For many years, Song Bình supported FedEx network operations in Vietnam. It was a familiar partner for many import-export businesses using FedEx Express services. However, in April 2026, FedEx announced a major change in its operating model in Vietnam. Under the new agreement, Viettel Post would take over the role of FedEx’s nationwide network operating partner.
FedEx stated that the partnership aims to improve network efficiency, enhance operational flexibility, and strengthen international logistics connectivity in Vietnam. According to FedEx’s official announcement, its partnership with Song Bình officially ended on April 26, 2026.
On Viettel Post’s side, the company announced that it would participate deeply in FedEx’s entire logistics chain in Vietnam, including operations, transportation, customs clearance, warehousing, and last-mile delivery. This is considered one of the largest logistics cooperation deals in Vietnam today.
WHY HAS THIS TRANSITION CAUSED A CRISIS?
Modern logistics depends heavily on data
Many people assume logistics is mainly about transportation. However, modern logistics is fundamentally different. An international shipment involves multiple layers of data, including booking information, airway bills, customs declarations, tracking codes, and warehouse management systems.
When FedEx transitioned its operating partner from Song Bình to Viettel Post, the entire operational data system also needed to be synchronized. If even a small portion of the data fails to match, the system may immediately stop processing the shipment. This explains why many businesses reported having complete documents but still being unable to retrieve their cargo.
The logistics chain involves too many stakeholders
An international shipment does not involve only FedEx and the customer. Behind the scenes are ALS, TCS, SCSC warehouses, customs authorities, airlines, and domestic transportation providers.
When the network operating entity changes, the entire coordination chain must also be adjusted accordingly. If one link in the chain fails to update the data properly, cargo may remain stuck in warehouses even after arriving in Vietnam. This is exactly what many businesses are currently experiencing.
Legal entity changes create documentation risks
Many businesses reported having to cancel and resubmit customs declarations due to changes in the transportation legal entity. In import-export operations, customs declaration data must match airway bills and shipment information exactly. If discrepancies occur, the system may reject processing.
CHALLENGES BUSINESSES ARE CURRENTLY FACING
Cargo remains in warehouses without release approval
This is currently the most discussed issue within the logistics community. Many shipments are being held at ALS, TCS, and SCSC warehouses without delivery release approval.
Some businesses stated that although all documentation had been completed, the system still had not fully validated the shipment data. As a result, cargo has been held in airport warehouses for several consecutive days.
Storage fees continue increasing daily
What is especially concerning is that warehouse storage fees continue accumulating during the waiting period. For electronics or high-value cargo, these additional costs can become extremely significant. Some businesses reported severe financial pressure due to prolonged storage periods beyond their original plans.
International shipment ETA delays
For exporters, delayed deliveries can directly affect commercial contracts. Industries such as electronics, industrial manufacturing, and fashion often operate under very strict delivery timelines. If ETAs are extended, businesses may lose customers or face contractual penalties.
WHAT DOES VIETTEL POST GAIN FROM THIS DEAL?
For Viettel Post, this is a major step forward in its international logistics strategy. According to company announcements, the partnership with FedEx allows Viettel Post to connect with more than 220 countries and territories worldwide. The two parties expect to handle nearly 2 million shipments annually, with a total cargo volume exceeding 26,000 tons.
In addition, Viettel Post aims to leverage the FedEx network to expand its cross-border logistics operations and support its “Go Global” ambitions. This deal is considered capable of reshaping Viettel Post’s position within Vietnam’s logistics industry.
MAJOR LESSONS FROM THE FEDEX – SONG BÌNH – VIETTEL POST CRISIS
This incident demonstrates that modern logistics is no longer solely about cargo transportation. Data has become the decisive factor determining the operational capability of the entire supply chain. If shipment data is incorrect or unsynchronized, cargo processing may stop immediately.
A logistics transition does not only affect internal business operations. It also impacts customs authorities, airport warehouses, airlines, and customers. Without a clearly coordinated transition roadmap, the risk of disruption becomes extremely high.
WHAT SHOULD BUSINESSES DO NOW?
Businesses should review all shipments currently moving through the FedEx system to identify cargo at risk of processing delays. In addition, they should recheck all airway bill data, legal entity information, and customs declarations to avoid inconsistencies.
For urgent shipments, businesses should consider backup solutions through DHL, UPS, or alternative air cargo services to reduce delivery delay risks. At the same time, all emails and processing timelines should be carefully documented for future verification of additional costs.
CONCLUSION
Doanh nghiệp nên rà soát toàn bộ shipment đang đi qua hệ thống FedEx để xác định các lô hàng có nguy cơ chậm xử lý. Ngoài ra, cần kiểm tra lại toàn bộ dữ liệu vận đơn, pháp nhân và tờ khai để tránh sai lệch thông tin.
Với các shipment gấp, doanh nghiệp nên cân nhắc phương án backup qua DHL, UPS hoặc air cargo nhằm giảm rủi ro giao hàng chậm. Song song đó, toàn bộ email và timeline xử lý nên được lưu đầy đủ để đối chiếu chi phí phát sinh sau này.
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