Sea route · Transpacific – US West Coast, Canada & Mexico
Cai Mep – Thi Vai to Los Angeles by sea
Typical routing, approximate distance and estimated transit time for ocean freight from Cai Mep – Thi Vai to Los Angeles.
- Approx. distance
- 7,170 nm (≈ 13,280 km)
- Transit (direct service)
- 18–21 days
- Pure sailing time at 16–18 knots
- 16.6–18.7 days
- Main straits & canals
- Luzon Strait
- Service pattern
- Direct services common
Routing
From Cai Mep – Thi Vai the usual routing passes Luzon Strait before reaching Los Angeles.
Direct services are commonly available on this route, so containers usually stay on the same vessel from origin to destination.
Straits and canals on this route
- Luzon Strait Passage between Taiwan and the Philippines from the South China Sea to the Pacific, used by transpacific and Japan-bound services from Vietnam.
About this trade lane: Transpacific – US West Coast, Canada & Mexico
Vietnam to Los Angeles/Long Beach, Oakland, the Pacific Northwest, Vancouver and Mexico’s Pacific coast, mostly through the Luzon Strait and across the North Pacific.
The transpacific trade to the US West Coast, Canada and Mexico’s Pacific ports is one of Vietnam’s largest export lanes, with many direct services from Cai Mep and some from Lach Huyen.
Distances are the sum of great-circle legs between waypoints along the usual sea lanes, through the relevant straits and canals, rounded to the nearest 10 nautical miles. Transit ranges assume a typical service speed of 16–18 knots plus time for intermediate port calls and canal transits; transshipment adds several days for the connection at the hub. Figures are estimates for planning and comparison, not carrier schedules.
Frequently asked questions
How long is shipping from Cai Mep – Thi Vai to Los Angeles?
About 18–21 days port to port on a direct service, for an approximate sea distance of 7,170 nautical miles. Add time for inland transport, customs and any transshipment.
Are there direct services from Cai Mep – Thi Vai to Los Angeles?
Yes, direct services are commonly available, although the vessel will usually call other ports on the way.
How can I get a freight rate from Cai Mep – Thi Vai to Los Angeles?
Send Global Logistic Group your cargo type, volume (FCL or LCL), ready date and Incoterms®; we will compare carriers and send an all-in 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.