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Shipping Goods to South Korea from the USA

South Korea Import Regulations: A Complete Guide for U.S. Shippers

South Korea is one of the largest importers in Asia and a key trade partner of the United States. Whether you're shipping from the USA for commercial reasons or sending personal belongings, it’s crucial to comply with Korean import laws, documentation, and customs procedures.

This guide covers everything you need to know—from taxes and required documents to product restrictions—and how a reliable international shipping company can help you reduce your international shipping costs and ensure affordable shipping.

Key Facts About Importing to South Korea

Customs operations are overseen by the Korea Customs Service (KCS).

South Korea applies customs duties, Value-Added Tax (VAT), and special taxes on certain items.
The KORUS Free Trade Agreement offers duty relief on eligible U.S.-origin goods.
Most consumer products require compliance with KC Certification or other safety standards.
Used household goods may qualify for duty-free entry under relocation exemptions.

A qualified international shipping company can handle the complex requirements and help manage your total international shipping cost efficiently.

Step-by-Step: How to Import to South Korea

1. Appoint a Licensed Importer or Customs Broker

Businesses must be registered importers and typically work with a licensed customs broker.
An international shipping company can process personal shipments (household goods or gifts) on your behalf.

2. Prepare Required Documents

Common documentation includes:

Bill of Lading (BOL) or Air Waybill
Commercial invoice
Packing list
Import declaration form
Certificate of Origin (for KORUS benefits)
KC Certification documents (if applicable)

For personal effects:

Passport
Korean visa or ARC (Alien Registration Card)
Inventory list
Customs application for duty-free entry

Declared values must be accurate. Misstatements can lead to delays or penalties.

3. Understand Duties, VAT, and Exemptions

Imported goods are subject to:

Customs duties: Generally 0–13%, depending on HS code
VAT: Standard 10% on CIF value + duties
Special consumption taxes: Applied to items like alcohol, tobacco, vehicles, and luxury goods

U.S.-origin goods may qualify for duty-free access under the KORUS FTA, provided you submit a valid Certificate of Origin.

An expert international shipping company can help you calculate your full international shipping cost, including all applicable taxes.

4. Regulated and Prohibited Goods

Certain goods require import approval or are prohibited:

Regulated Items (may need agency approval):

Electronics, appliances – KC Safety Certification
Cosmetics and food – Ministry of Food and Drug Safety
Telecom devices – Radio Research Agency (RRA)
Pharmaceuticals and chemicals

Prohibited Items:

Narcotics and illegal drugs
Weapons and ammunition
Counterfeit goods
Items violating Korean culture or morality

Shipping Personal Effects to South Korea

If you're moving to South Korea, you can import used household goods and personal items duty-free, provided you meet the criteria:

Requirements:

The items are used and personally owned
You are entering South Korea on a work visa, study visa, or returning residence
Shipment arrives within 6 months of your arrival

Required Documents:

Passport and visa
Alien Registration Card (ARC) or application
Detailed inventory list
Proof of overseas residence

High-value or new items may be subject to tax. Customs may inspect your shipment upon arrival.

Packaging & Labeling Requirements

Imported consumer goods must comply with South Korean labeling regulations:

Labels must be in Korean
Must include product name, manufacturer/importer, origin, usage, warnings, and expiration/manufacture dates
Food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals must be registered and labeled per KFDA rules

Wooden packaging must meet ISPM 15 standards (heat-treated and stamped). Non-compliant crates may be fumigated or rejected.

Who Can Help?

Use a Licensed Broker or an International Shipping Company

A licensed Korean customs broker or a trusted international shipping company can:

Handle KC safety certification
Prepare accurate customs entries
Guide you through tax exemption for personal effects
Offer end-to-end delivery across South Korea

Utilizing experienced support helps prevent errors, delays, and unnecessary fees while ensuring affordable shipping.

Final Import Checklist for South Korea

✅ Requirement	Applies to	Action
Import declaration (KCS)	All imports	Filed electronically or by broker
Customs duties (0–13%)	Most goods	Based on HS code and product category
VAT (10%)	All imports	Calculated on CIF + duty
KC Certification	Electronics and regulated goods	Required for clearance and sale
KORUS Certificate of Origin	U.S.-origin goods	Allows for duty-free access
Duty-free personal effects form	Used household goods	For relocating individuals
ISPM 15 packaging	Wooden crates and pallets	Required for sea freight shipments

Conclusion: Shipping to South Korea from the USA

South Korea’s customs process is modern, transparent, and highly structured. Whether you’re importing commercial products or relocating with personal effects, full compliance is necessary to avoid penalties.

Partnering with a professional international shipping company helps simplify documentation, meet regulatory requirements, and lower your international shipping cost, ensuring affordable shipping from the U.S. to Korea.