How Do You Ship Your Belongings to Korea?
A Korean Local’s Practical Guide for International Movers
When you’re preparing for a big move to Korea, one of the questions that quickly becomes top-of-mind is: How do I ship my belongings safely and cost-effectively? Whether you’re moving for work, study, or long-term residence, transporting your things across the globe can feel overwhelming. As a Korean woman who has helped many foreign friends settle here, I’ll walk you through the process in a clear, down-to-earth way — without jargon and with tips you’ll actually use.
Do You Really Need to Ship Things? First Things First
Before you start comparing quotes and boxing up your life, ask this: Do you need to ship everything?
In many cases, shipping a few boxes home isn’t worth it compared to selling, donating, or replacing items once you arrive. Korea’s domestic market especially online platforms and second-hand shops is great for affordable furniture, household goods, and daily items.
But if you have sentimental belongings, specific gear, or professional equipment you absolutely want here, let’s talk about how to get them to Korea reliably.
Step 1: Choose Your Shipping Method
There are three main ways to ship your belongings internationally:
1. Air Freight
Best for smaller shipments (one box up to a few boxes).
- Pros: Fast (usually a week or less), reliable
- Cons: Expensive per kilogram
Air freight is ideal if you’re only moving a few important boxes — like documents, electronics, or important clothes.
2. Sea Freight
Best for large amounts of stuff (furniture, boxes, appliances).
- Pros: Much cheaper than air if you ship lots of volume
- Cons: Slower (often 4 to 8 weeks)
If you have a lot of belongings, sea freight is usually the most cost-effective.
3. International Courier Services
Using providers like DHL, FedEx, UPS for smaller shipments.
- Pros: Easy door-to-door service
- Cons: Can still be pricey for heavy or large boxes
Couriers are great for small personal items or urgent shipments.
Step 2: Get Shipping Quotes and Compare
Not all shipping companies are created equal. Before you commit:
- Take measurements and weights of your boxes
- Compare quotes from at least three services
- Ask if the quote includes customs, duties, and insurance
In Korea, customs fees can apply depending on what you ship. Some services include handling customs paperwork, which saves you a lot of time and confusion — especially if your Korean language skills are still developing.
Step 3: Packing — It’s More Important Than You Think
Packing properly is about protecting your things and saving money.
Tips from local expats:
- Use sturdy boxes reinforce edges with tape
- Disassemble furniture if possible
- Wrap fragile items in bubble or paper
Mark boxes clearly with contents and destination room
Shipping companies often offer packing services, but you can save money by preparing yourself. Just make sure that fragile things are well protected moving across countries can be bumpy.
Step 4: Documentation and Customs Declaration
Every international shipment requires paperwork. This can feel bureaucratic, but it’s simple if you prepare ahead.
You’ll likely need:
- A packing list
- Invoice or value declaration for the goods
- Customs forms from the shipping company
Korea allows some personal belongings to enter duty-free if you’re moving residence, but rules vary — especially for electronics, appliances, and valuable items. Always check the latest customs regulations for your specific situation.
Step 5: Choose Between Door-to-Door and Port-to-Port
Shipping companies usually offer two main services:
- Door-to-Door: They pick up from your origin address and deliver to your destination in Korea. Very convenient but slightly more expensive.
- Port-to-Port: You drop off at a designated port and pick up in Korea. Cheaper but requires more effort on your side.
If convenience matters more than cost, door-to-door is worth it. If you’re on a tight budget and have someone who can help you on the Korea end, port-to-port will save you money.
Step 6: Arrival in Korea Receiving Your Shipment
Once your shipment arrives in Korea:
- The shipping company or customs broker will contact you
- You may need to provide ID, proof of residence, and a packing list
- If duties apply, you’ll pay before release
Many expatriates use a customs broker — someone who handles paperwork and clearance for you. For large shipments, a small fee for a broker can be worth every won.
Shipping Tip: What Not to Send
Some things aren’t worth the trouble (or are outright blocked by customs), including:
- Perishable food
- Flammable items
- Used mattresses or bedding (often restricted)
- Large appliances without voltage compatibility
Check the latest Korea customs guidelines before you pack — the rules evolve.
Cost-Saving Strategies
Here’s how movers often save money:
- Ship less and buy local for everyday items
- Use consolidated shipping (shared container space with others)
- Time your shipment with slow seasons (off-peak may be cheaper)
- Negotiate with shipping companies for volume discounts
Shipping is one of those areas where a little research upfront pays off later.
Real-Life Stories: What New Residents Often Learn
Many foreign friends tell me:
- “I sold most furniture and bought new after arrival — it was cheaper.”
- “Sea freight took a while, but it saved thousands.”
- “Courier services were perfect for my small boxes and documents.”
Every situation is different, so look at your priorities: speed vs. cost vs. convenience.
Final Thoughts from a Korean Local
Shipping your belongings to Korea doesn’t have to be stressful if you break it down step by step.
Here’s the process in a nutshell:
- Decide how much you really need to ship
- Choose a shipping method (air, sea, courier)
- Get and compare quotes
- Pack smartly and declare accurately
- Choose delivery style (door-to-door or port pick-up)
- Handle customs and receive your belongings
With a bit of planning and the right partner, your things will arrive here smoothly — and you’ll be settling into your new home before you know it.