Shipping to South Korea from the USA
Shipping to South Korea from the USA? Compare up to 5 free quotes from international shipping companies for container shipping, air cargo, car shipping and boxes to South Korea. One request, free and without obligation.
- Region
- Asia
- Main sea ports
- Busan, Incheon
- Main airports
- Seoul Incheon
- Sea transit
- Typically about 4 to 8 weeks port to port
- Shipments
- Household goods, cars, boxes and barrels, commercial freight
Compare quotes for South Korea
Container shipping to South Korea
Most household moves to South Korea go by sea container. You can book a container just for your goods (FCL) or share one with other customers (LCL).
| Option | Space (approx.) | Usually fits |
|---|---|---|
| Shared container (LCL) | Pay per cubic metre or foot | A few rooms, up to about 15 m³ (530 ft³) |
| 20ft container (FCL) | About 33 m³ (1,170 ft³) | 1 to 2 bedroom home |
| 40ft container (FCL) | About 67 m³ (2,390 ft³) | 3 to 4 bedroom home, or household goods plus a car |
Not sure how much you have? Use our moving size calculator.
Air cargo to South Korea
Air cargo (air freight) is the fastest way to ship to South Korea. It is ideal for clothes, documents, electronics and things you need as soon as you arrive. Prices are based on the "chargeable weight": the actual weight or the volume weight, whichever is higher, so air cargo is best for smaller, lighter shipments.
Air shipments to South Korea usually arrive at Seoul Incheon.
Car shipping to South Korea
Cars can be shipped to South Korea by RoRo (driven onto a special ship) or inside a container, which can also hold some household goods. Import duties, age limits and registration rules differ by country, so check the rules for South Korea before you buy or ship a car.
- RoRo: the car is driven onto the ship. Often the cheapest option, but you can't pack belongings in the car.
- Container: more protection, and you can combine the car with household goods.
- To export a car from the USA you need the original title, and the documents must be given to U.S. Customs before the car is loaded.
Shipping boxes and barrels to South Korea
Only sending a few things? Shipping boxes, barrels or excess baggage to South Korea is much cheaper than a full move. Many companies collect from your home and deliver door to door.
Commercial freight to South Korea
Shipping goods for your business? Compare quotes for FCL and LCL freight, pallets and air freight to South Korea, including customs clearance.
How much does shipping to South Korea cost?
Every shipment is different, so prices vary a lot between companies. Your price depends on:
- The volume or weight of your goods
- Shared container, full container or air cargo
- Your pickup location in the USA and the destination city in South Korea
- Packing, insurance, storage and door delivery
- Destination charges such as port fees and customs clearance
- Season and current freight rates
Ask each company what is included, especially destination charges. Compare up to 5 free quotes to find the best price.
How long does shipping to South Korea take?
Sea freight from the USA to South Korea typically takes about 4 to 8 weeks port to port. Door-to-door delivery takes longer because of collection, customs clearance and final delivery. Air cargo usually arrives within a few days to two weeks.
Customs and documents for South Korea
- You will usually need your passport, a detailed packing list (inventory) and, for household goods, proof that you are moving to South Korea, such as a visa or residence permit.
- Many countries allow used personal belongings to enter with reduced or no import duty for people moving there to live. New items are often taxed.
- Some items are restricted or banned. Ask your shipping company and check with the customs authority of South Korea before you pack.
Rules change, so always confirm with your shipping company. See also our guide to prohibited items and how to pack.
Shipping companies to South Korea
We are adding verified shipping companies for South Korea. Send one request and up to 5 companies that serve your route will contact you with quotes.
Frequently asked questions about shipping to South Korea
How much does it cost to ship to South Korea from the USA?
The cost depends on how much you ship (volume or weight), the method (shared container, full container or air cargo), your pickup location in the USA, the destination city in South Korea, and extra services like packing, insurance and door delivery. Compare written quotes to know your real price: Movers World gets you up to 5 free quotes with one request.
How long does shipping to South Korea take?
Sea freight from the USA to South Korea typically takes about 4 to 8 weeks port to port. Door-to-door delivery takes longer because of collection, customs clearance and final delivery. Air cargo usually arrives within a few days to two weeks.
Can I ship a car to South Korea?
Cars can be shipped to South Korea by RoRo (driven onto a special ship) or inside a container, which can also hold some household goods. Import duties, age limits and registration rules differ by country, so check the rules for South Korea before you buy or ship a car.
What documents do I need to ship to South Korea?
Usually your passport, a detailed packing list and proof of your move such as a visa or residence permit. For a car you also need the title and bill of sale. Your shipping company will confirm the exact list for South Korea.
Is air cargo or sea freight better for shipping to South Korea?
Sea freight is much cheaper for furniture and large shipments, but slower. Air cargo is faster and best for small, urgent or valuable items. Many people combine both: a small air shipment for essentials and the rest by sea.