Transshipment hub · Panama
Port of Balboa
Balboa is a transshipment hub on the Pacific Ocean in Panama (Central America & Caribbean). Below: key facts, how it connects with Vietnam and what to prepare when shipping through it.
Key facts
- Country / territory
- Panama
- UN/LOCODE
- PABLB
- Port type
- Transshipment hub
- Region
- Central America & Caribbean
- Waters
- Pacific Ocean
- Coordinates
- 8.95°N, 79.57°W
- Container throughput
- No verified figure published here
About the port of Balboa
Balboa works as a transshipment hub, where a large share of containers is moved between mainline and feeder vessels rather than entering or leaving the country by land. Shipments to many secondary ports in the region are relayed here.
Role in trade with Vietnam
Caribbean and Central American hubs such as Colón, Cartagena, Kingston and Caucedo relay cargo between Asia–Americas mainline services and regional feeders.
Sea routes and transit times from Vietnam
We have not published a sample voyage to Balboa yet. Typical options from Vietnam are direct regional services or transshipment via a major hub; ask us for current schedules.
Shipping lines
Most global carriers and regional lines serve this region. We check current services and space for your shipment when quoting. All shipping lines →
Customs and documentation tips
- Make sure the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading and customs declaration show consistent descriptions, HS codes, quantities and weights.
- Agree the Incoterms® rule and who arranges freight, insurance and destination charges before booking.
- Choose the bill of lading type (original, telex release or sea waybill) according to the payment terms with your buyer or supplier.
- Declare the verified gross mass (VGM) of each container before the carrier’s cut-off, as required by SOLAS.
- Check destination import requirements early: licences, product standards, labelling, fumigation or phytosanitary certificates where applicable.
Frequently asked questions about Balboa
Where is the port of Balboa?
Balboa is in Panama, on the Pacific Ocean, in the Central America & Caribbean shipping region.
What is the UN/LOCODE of Balboa?
The UN/LOCODE commonly used for Balboa is PABLB. Check the exact terminal or location code required by the carrier when booking.
How long does sea freight take from Vietnam to Balboa?
It depends on the routing and whether the service is direct or via transshipment. Contact us for current schedules from Hai Phong, Cat Lai or Cai Mep.
What documents are needed to ship via Balboa?
Usually a commercial invoice, packing list and bill of lading, plus any certificates required by the destination (origin, phytosanitary, fumigation, licences). Advance cargo filings may apply before loading.
Can Global Logistic Group arrange shipping to or from Balboa?
Yes. We arrange FCL and LCL ocean freight, customs clearance and inland transport for Balboa through our carrier contracts and agent network. Send us your cargo details for a quote.
Information on this page is general guidance compiled by Global Logistic Group from public sources. Port facilities, carrier networks, routings and transit times change frequently; always confirm current schedules, cut-offs and requirements with us or the carrier before booking. Data as of October 2026.