Multipurpose port · Spain
Port of Bilbao
Bilbao is a multipurpose port on the Bay of Biscay in Spain (Northern Europe & Atlantic). Below: key facts, how it connects with Vietnam and what to prepare when shipping through it.
Key facts
- Country / territory
- Spain
- UN/LOCODE
- ESBIO
- Port type
- Multipurpose port
- Region
- Northern Europe & Atlantic
- Waters
- Bay of Biscay
- Coordinates
- 43.35°N, 3.05°W
- Container throughput
- No verified figure published here
About the port of Bilbao
Bilbao is a multipurpose port handling a mix of containers, general and project cargo and bulk commodities. Container services are typically regional or feeder connections rather than direct long-haul calls.
Role in trade with Vietnam
Asia–North Europe is a core East–West trade lane. Routing via the Suez Canal or around the Cape of Good Hope depends on the carrier’s current network and security assessment for the Red Sea.
Sea routes and transit times from Vietnam
We have not published a sample voyage to Bilbao 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.
- For the European Union, entry summary declarations under the ICS2 system must be filed before loading.
Vietnam has free trade agreements with Spain that may reduce import duties with a valid proof of origin: EVFTA. Vietnam’s free trade agreements →
Frequently asked questions about Bilbao
Where is the port of Bilbao?
Bilbao is in Spain, on the Bay of Biscay, in the Northern Europe & Atlantic shipping region.
What is the UN/LOCODE of Bilbao?
The UN/LOCODE commonly used for Bilbao is ESBIO. Check the exact terminal or location code required by the carrier when booking.
How long does sea freight take from Vietnam to Bilbao?
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 Bilbao?
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 Bilbao?
Yes. We arrange FCL and LCL ocean freight, customs clearance and inland transport for Bilbao 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.