Your Easy Start to International Shipping
The first time that you need to send an international package might seem daunting, but the process is quick and painless if you follow a few simple steps to ship from USA to South Korea.
From gifts for family and personal items, to small business goods, this guide takes you through each step to make sure your package gets there safe and sound and on time.
Preparing Your Parcel Properly
It all starts with safety in packing and transit. Select a heavy-duty cardboard box, cover delicate items with bubble wrap and fill gaps with packing peanuts or crumpled paper to avoid shifting.
Weigh and measure your package carefully, as there are limits (usually up to 30kg) with most of the service providers.
Also have a copy of the detailed contents inside the box for customs to reference in case debris gets mixed around.
Understanding Prohibited and Restricted Items
South Korea has stringent controls on imports to protect health, safety and the environment. Items not permitted include drugs, weapons, explosives, counterfeit products, pornography and subversive publications. Restricted (e.g. some types of foods, medicines, plants and animals as well as goods under CITES protection) may also require permits.
So of course, always check the official Korea Customs Service page to verify before you pack!
Formatting the Address Correctly
Accurate addressing is crucial for smooth delivery. South Korea uses a five-digit postal code system. Write addresses in Romanized English, starting from specific to general:
Recipient’s Name
Building/Apartment Number (e.g., APT 101)
Street Name (e.g., Teheran-ro 123)
District (Gu) and Neighborhood (Dong)
City (e.g., Seoul)
Postal Code
REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Example:
Kim Ji-hoon
APT 101, Yeouido Building
Yeouido-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu
Seoul 07323
REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Include the recipient’s phone number—Korean couriers frequently contact them directly.
Completing Customs Declarations
Most international parcels require customs forms. Use CN22 for low-value items or documents, and CN23 for higher-value shipments, detailing contents, quantities, weights, and values.
A quick guide to CN22, CN23 and other customs documents
Be precise and honest: describe items specifically (e.g., “used books” instead of “gifts”) to avoid delays or penalties.
Choosing the Right Shipping Service
Popular couriers for Standard package delivery to South Korea is usually done using DHL, FedEx or UPS for mobility (from 1 to 5 business days) and EMS or national post operator for economical transfers (between 3 up to 21 days). Compare rates online using weight, size and speed. Include tracking and insurance for valuable items.
Use comparison services to make sure you are getting the best service to send parcel to SouthKorea for right options.
Navigating Duties and Taxes
Duty free Personal shipments under about US$150-200 (depending on country) are generally not subject to duty.
Above that, you’re looking at customs duties (usually between 0 and 13%) and a 10% VAT on the CIF value (cost + insurance + freight). Payment is typically made in cash on arrival, but some services allow prepayment.
Tracking and Final Delivery
Reliable services provide end-to-end tracking. In South Korea, local delivery is quick and efficient, especially in urban areas.
FAQs
How long does it take to post a package to South Korea?
Delivery times (DHL/Fedex) = 1-5 days, economy = 7 – 21 days.
What is the duty free limit for parcels sent as gifts?
Usually, those under US$150-200 are allowed in tax-free; however, check the current thresholds on Korea Customs’s website.
Do I have to provide a phone number?
Yes as they would usually call recipient to arrange delivery.
Can I ship food items?
Restricted and prohibited items many foods are not allowed for entry or require quarantine clearances - do not take perishables unless they are permitted.
What happens if my parcel is stuck at customs?
Submit any required docs and do so quickly where necessary; registers the correct way 95% of the time.
Conclusion: Ship with Confidence
By doing things proper packing, right addressing, honest customs declaration and select the reliable courier you can send parcel to South Korea without any hesitation. Prepare in advance, particularly during the holiday season, and your package will get to its destination perfectly. Safe shipping!
