The process of sourcing backpacks from Vietnam can be complex, especially for first-time importers. With many suppliers, quality requirements, and logistics steps to manage, it can be difficult to know where to start.
This guide will walk you through the key steps and essential procedures for importing backpacks from Vietnam. It will help you understand how to choose reliable suppliers, evaluate product quality, manage production, and handle shipping with confidence.
Why source backpacks from Vietnam?
A backpack is a portable storage bag designed to be carried on the back with the support of two adjustable shoulder straps. It is widely used for school, commuting, travel, hiking, and professional activities because it offers hands-free convenience and practical organization.
The global demand for backpacks has grown significantly as remote work and digital nomad lifestyles become more common. People now look for versatile designs with multiple compartments for laptops, chargers, and personal items. In addition, as urban populations expand and travel activity increases, the need for durable, stylish, and tech-friendly backpacks continues to rise.
The global backpack market was valued at 19.11 billion USD in 2024 and is projected to grow from 20.01 billion USD in 2025 to 29.73 billion USD by 2033. This reflects a steady growth rate of 5.07 percent during the forecast period from 2025 to 2033.
In today’s global market, Vietnam has strengthened its position as a major center for backpack manufacturing, with more than 27 billion USD in footwear, bags, and accessories exported in 2024.
Below are some of the key reasons why many global importers choose to source backpacks from Vietnam:
- Strong production capacity: Vietnam has a young and growing population. The proportion of working-age accounts for 60% of the population. Vietnam’s textile sector, comprising around 7,000 companies and over 3 million workers, dedicates 80% of its production capacity to exports
- Labor cost: Although Vietnam’s labor cost has increased in recent years, it is still lower than many major manufacturing hubs. According to the General Statistics Office, the average monthly income of Vietnamese workers is about 304 USD, while the figure in China is around 1000 USD.
- Lower export tariffs: Vietnam has signed 18 free trade agreements (FTAs), such as the VN-EAEU FTA, BTA, and VCFTA. These trade networks help global importers reduce costs, face fewer barriers, and gain easier access to Vietnam’s high-quality export products.
- Supportive policies: The Vietnamese government offers tax incentives, simpler business procedures, and well-developed industrial zones. This encourages foreign investment and strengthens manufacturing.
Types of backpacks you can source in Vietnam
Whether you’re looking for everyday school backpacks or high-performance outdoor gear, manufacturers in Vietnam can deliver a wide variety of designs, materials, and quality levels.
Below are some of the most popular types of backpacks you can source in Vietnam:
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Hiking backpack
A hiking backpack is designed for outdoor activities and provides well-organized compartments for clothes, travel essentials, and electronics. It usually includes front and side pockets for quick access to smaller items such as water bottles, snacks, or sunglasses. The materials are durable and water-resistant to withstand different weather conditions and rough terrain. Many models also feature breathable shoulder straps for added comfort during long hikes and reflective strips that improve visibility in low-light environments.
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Travel backpack
Travel backpacks are designed with multiple compartments to help you organize everything you need for a trip. Many models include separate sections for wet clothes and dry items, along with a dedicated shoe compartment that keeps footwear clean and away from the rest of your belongings. It is ideal for daily use, work, weekend getaways, or short trips where you need practical organization and flexible carrying options.
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Sling backpack
A sling backpack is a compact and stylish option that combines convenience with comfort. It is often made from materials such as polyester, canvas, or nylon, giving it both durability and a modern look. This type of backpack features a classic strap sling design that you can wear across the body or over one shoulder. Inside, the bag includes several compartments to keep essentials organized, along with a front zipper pocket for quick access to your phone, keys, and other small items.
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Drawstring backpack
Drawstring backpacks are lightweight and simple in design, making them easy to carry for many daily activities. They are often made from canvas or polyester, which keeps them durable yet comfortable to use. These bags are commonly chosen for sports activities, gym sessions, quick trips, or casual everyday use. They are also widely used as promotional items or event giveaways because they are affordable, versatile, and easy to customize with logos or branding.
Where to find reliable backpack suppliers?
Finding the right manufacturing partner is the key to successful backpack sourcing. The challenge isn’t the availability; it’s selecting trustworthy manufacturers that can meet your design, quality, and compliance standards.
Below are some of the most reliable places and channels to find reputable backpack suppliers:
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Direct manufacturers
Visiting factories or conducting supplier audits is good practice because you can directly assess the supplier’s capabilities, evaluate the equipment, and cleanliness.
Below are some reputable manufacturers worth considering:
- Truc Xanh Production Trading Company Limited: A top export company in Vietnam, specializing in backpacks, handbags, and suitcases for both domestic and international markets.
- Senrong Bag: Located in Ha Noi, Senrong Bag has over 20 years of experience in the backpack manufacturing industry. The company produces a wide variety of bags, including school backpacks, travel bags, and promotional bags.
- Hoang Ha Textile Garment Co., Ltd. offers a broad range of backpacks and textile products and is well recognized for its commitment to high-quality standards. The company holds ISO 9001 and OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certifications, ensuring products meet international safety.
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B2B online sourcing platform
Sourcing on online platforms is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to find backpack manufacturers in Vietnam, compare suppliers, and evaluate product options without needing to visit factories in person.
- Alibaba: One of the largest e-commerce platforms in the world. It is designed to serve global businesses that want to buy and sell products in bulk. It connects millions of manufacturers across various categories, including clothing, footwear, bags, and accessories.
- VinaSources: A dedicated online marketplace that connects international buyers with verified Vietnamese suppliers. You can browse product catalogs, check factory information, review export capabilities, and contact manufacturers directly. It also allows you to compare suppliers, check MOQs, request samples, and review product details easily.
- Global Sources: A cross-border B2B ecommerce platform that connects global buyers with verified suppliers. B2B ecommerce platform that connects global buyers with verified suppliers.
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Local trading companies and sourcing agents
Working with professional sourcing agents means having local representatives who handle key tasks such as supplier vetting, price negotiation, quality control, import documentation, shipping, and logistics on your behalf. This allows you to save time and focus on other important aspects of your business.
- Cosmo Sourcing: Based in Ho Chi Minh City, Cosmo Sourcing connects global buyers with pre-vetted, trustworthy backpack manufacturers across Vietnam. The company provides full sourcing support, from supplier selection and sampling to production management and quality checks.
- Dragon Sourcing: The company has broad experience sourcing products such as backpacks, clothing, footwear, fashion accessories, and handicrafts. It also has a large team of local Vietnamese staff who provide hands-on procurement and supplier support.
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Trade fairs and industry associations
In Vietnam, there are many trade fairs and industry events that bring together retailers, brands, and distributors in one place. These shows give you a direct chance to meet bag manufacturers, review product quality in person, and compare different suppliers quickly. Attending these events also helps you understand market trends, new materials, and production capabilities. This will make your sourcing decisions more accurate and efficient.
Here are some famous bag trade shows in Vietnam:
- Global Sourcing Fair: This is one of the leading B2B sourcing events held annually in Ho Chi Minh. It brings together hundreds of suppliers across various categories, including handicrafts, clothing, and outdoor apparel. It is a strong platform for discovering hiking backpacks, travel backpacks, and sling backpacks, with many factories showcasing export-ready products and new designs.
- VIETNAM EXPO (Vietnam International Trade Fair) is the longest-standing annual trade promotion event in Vietnam. It attracts retailers, distributors, and media from numerous markets, making it a key platform for global buyers to connect with reliable suppliers. The show features a wide range of outdoor products, including hiking backpacks, travel bags, and other outdoor bags.
Typical MOQ, lead times for importing backpacks from Vietnam
The typical minimum order quantity (MOQ) for sourcing backpacks ranges from 200 to 1,000 units per style, depending on the level of customization. Simple models often require a lower MOQ, while highly customized or technical backpacks require a larger starting order. Lead times also vary based on production capacity, fabric availability, and the complexity of the bag.
Below is the table that shows the typical MOQ and lead time for some common backpack types.
| # | Type | MOQ (units) | Lead time (days) |
| 1 | Hiking backpack | 300 | 45-60 |
| 2 | Travel backpack | 500 | 35-45 |
| 3 | Sling backpack | 200 | 25-35 |
Quality certifications for importing backpacks
To find a reliable backpack manufacturer in Vietnam, it is important to look for certifications like ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and GOTS, which demonstrate consistent quality, safe materials, and responsible production practices.
- ISO 9001:2001 (quality management systems): This quality management certification ensures that every stage of production is controlled and documented. Each bag is tracked from raw material sourcing to final packaging and shipping, and every worker follows clearly defined procedures.
- OEKO-TEX® Standard 100: It helps guarantee that textiles and related materials are free from harmful chemicals and safe for human use
- ISO 14001 (environmental management systems): It shows that the manufacturer actively controls environmental risks, manages waste responsibly, and follows sustainable production practices.
- GOTS: This certification applies to bags made with organic cotton or natural fibres. It confirms that the material is at least 70% organic and that every stage of processing meets strict environmental and social requirements.
- SEDEX: It helps verify that the factory operates responsibly and meets international expectations for ethical manufacturing.
How to import backpacks from Vietnam?
Whether you’re a first-time importer or expanding your current supply chain, knowing each step of the process of importing backpacks from Vietnam can help you avoid delays, extra costs, and compliance issues.
Here’s a simple breakdown of how to successfully import backpacks from Vietnam, from choosing the right supplier to delivering products to your warehouse:
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Choose a reliable supplier
After researching and listing suppliers through Alibaba, VinaSources, or by attending trade fairs, you should narrow the list to about 5-10 candidates.
You can begin by:
- Reviewing supplier profiles: Ask them to provide their business license, quality management certifications (e.g., ISO 9001), environmental management certifications (e.g., ISO 14001), or any material certifications. These documents help you verify that the supplier meets international standards.
- Evaluating their product range: Manufacturers that specialize in textiles and backpacks usually have stronger knowledge of materials, stitching methods, and construction techniques. They also understand how to produce durable, high-quality backpacks for daily use.
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Request sample
When working with a new supplier or placing a high-value order, you should request 1-3 samples for each product so you can properly evaluate their quality. Make sure you clearly list the article number and all specifications, including quantity, size, and color, so the supplier can produce the correct sample.
Some suppliers may charge a small sample fee, which is often credited toward your first bulk order, so be prepared to cover the sample cost and shipping.
When you receive the sample, examine it carefully and compare it with every detail in your specification sheet. Test the zippers, check the stitching, and feel the weight and texture of the material. Consider whether it meets the quality standard you expect. Provide clear and organized feedback to the manufacturer for any adjustments. This back-and-forth process helps refine the product before you place a bulk order.
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Contract negotiation
Contract negotiation is a critical step because it shapes your working relationship with the supplier. A well-structured contract protects your business, clarifies expectations, and reduces the risk of misunderstandings or disputes.
While discussing with the supplier, you should clearly confirm key points such as product specifications, quality standards, materials, packaging requirements, order quantity, pricing, and payment terms. It is also important to define production timelines, sample approval procedures, and penalties for delays or defective products. These details ensure that both parties follow the same guidelines throughout the entire production process.
After agreeing on the terms, you must sign a purchase order, which is a legally binding agreement. Most suppliers require a deposit of about 30-50% of the total order value. The PO should reference the approved final sample and reiterate all key specifications, the agreed-upon price, the production timeline, and the shipping terms.
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Quality control
Once production begins, you should stay in close contact with the supplier and request regular updates, including photos or short videos of the production line.
You should schedule an on-site check when around 20-30% of the production is complete. At this stage, you can verify whether the factory is following your approved sample and specification sheet.
The second major quality checkpoint should happen before the final payment. You should randomly select finished units from different cartons and compare them with your quality checklist. Confirm the dimensions, fabric strength, zipper smoothness, logo placement, packaging quality, and overall functionality. Any defects should be documented, and the supplier must correct them before you approve the shipment.
Some buyers also hire independent inspection agencies in Vietnam to monitor quality throughout the production cycle. These third-party agents can conduct checks during material sourcing, during mid-production, and before shipment. This additional layer of control reduces the risk of receiving defective products and is especially useful for large orders or high-value backpack models.
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Shipping and logistics for backpack imports
Getting your products from a factory in Vietnam to a warehouse in the USA, Europe, or Russia involves several steps and strict compliance requirements. Each country has its own rules for imported goods, so having the correct documents is essential.
Below are the key shipping documents you must prepare for a smooth import and export process.
- Bill of lading: one of the most important documents in shipping. It confirms that the carrier has received your goods and ensures they will be delivered safely to the consignee.
- Certificates of Origin (C/O): This document states the country where the goods were manufactured. It is required when importing and exporting countries have a free trade agreement, as it helps reduce or eliminate duties and taxes.
- Packing list: A document includes an itemized list of all items in your shipment, along with weight, dimensions, packaging type, and safety information. Customs officials use it to identify goods for inspection.
- Commercial Invoices: An official invoice that lists the value of the goods in the shipment. It is used by customs to calculate import duties and taxes.
- Packing Declaration: This document informs customs about the materials used for packaging the goods. Some countries restrict certain packaging materials, and undeclared items can lead to delays or fines.
If you do not have enough time or experience to handle logistics, you can hire a freight forwarder. A freight forwarder manages the entire shipping process, books cargo space on ships or planes, prepares all paperwork, and coordinates with customs brokers.
How VinaSources supports global importers?
If you want to source high-quality backpacks from Vietnam, VinaSources provides a reliable and efficient solution. The platform has deep experience in the Vietnamese manufacturing landscape and a strong network of trusted factories across the country. All suppliers on VinaSources are verified, which gives you greater confidence in product quality, export capability, and factory standards.
By browsing the bag catalog, you can compare styles, materials, and pricing to find options that match your exact requirements.
In particular, our team has extensive knowledge of sourcing procedures and can guide you through supplier evaluation, product verification, and communication to ensure a smooth and efficient process from start to finish.
Visit VinaSources to explore verified manufacturers and find the right partner for your next backpack import project. You can contact the team through the quotation form or reach customer support at hotline 1900 4356 for assistance.