Shipping from South Korea to US presents challenges for importers, including managing costs, customs, and delivery timelines. In 2024, South Korea exported $127.8 billion to the US, an 8.2% increase, highlighting growing trade opportunities.
Semiconductor exports jumped 43.9% to $141.9 billion, driven by AI chip demand, while auto shipments reached $70.8 billion. Handling this diverse and high-volume trade requires efficient networks from Korean manufacturing hubs to US distribution centers.
Shipping from South Korea to US: 2025 Cost & Time Overview
Current market conditions for Korea to US shipping reflect stabilizing rates amid ongoing supply chain adjustments affecting B2B importers. Here’s a concise overview of shipping costs and transit times:
Costs:
- Air freight (300 kg+ to major cities): ~$7.21/kg
- Sea freight (LCL): $45 – $65 per cubic meter (depends on port & service)
- Sea freight (FCL 20′ container to West Coast): $2,100 – $3,200
- Sea freight (FCL 20′ container to East Coast): $2,800 – $4,200
- Sea freight (FCL 40′ container to West Coast): $3,124 (average)
- Sea freight (FCL 40′ container to East Coast): $5,159 (average)
Delivery Times
| Mode | Route | Cost | Transit Time |
| Air Freight | Korea → Major US Cities | ~$7.21/kg (300kg+) | 4 – 8 days |
| Express Shipping | Korea → US (Door-to-Door) | $12 – 18/kg | 2 – 5 days |
| Sea Freight | Korea → West Coast Ports | $3,124 (40′) · $2,100 (20′) | 12 – 18 days |
| Sea Freight | Korea → East Coast Ports | $5,159 (40′) · $2,800 (20′) | 20 – 28 days |
South Korea to US Shipping Methods: Ocean, Air & Express
The shipping method from South Korea to the US directly impacts delivery speed, cost efficiency, and supply chain reliability for B2B importers. Each method serves distinct business requirements, from urgent sample delivery to bulk inventory management.
| Method | Transit Time | Best For |
| Air Freight | 3-7 business days | Medium-sized shipments, time-sensitive orders, electronics restocking |
| Ocean Freight (LCL) | 12-20 days | Smaller loads that don’t fill a container, cost-conscious importers |
| Ocean Freight (FCL) | 12-20 days | Large-volume shipments, bulk imports, manufacturing supplies |
| Express Courier | 1-3 business days | Urgent samples, small parcels, high-value goods |
| Door-to-Door Shipping | Varies by method (Air: ~5-10 days / Sea: ~15-25 days) | Importers seeking comprehensive logistics with minimal coordination |
Container Options for Ocean Freight
Container selection impacts both shipping costs and cargo handling efficiency for Korean exporters managing diverse product portfolios. Here is a complete guide to container sizes and ideal cargo for each:
| Container Type | Internal Dimensions (L × W × H) | Max Volume (CBM) | Best Use Case |
| 20 ft. Standard (TEU) | 6.1m × 2.4m × 2.4m | 33 | Smaller shipments or heavy cargo (machinery, automotive parts, metals) |
| 40 ft. Standard (FEU) | 12.2m × 2.4m × 2.4m | 67 | Large-volume cargo without extra height (electronics, packaged consumer goods) |
| 40 ft. High Cube (HC) | 12.2m × 2.4m × 2.7m | 76 (9 CBM extra volume) | Light, bulky items (textiles, furniture, packaging materials) |
| LCL (Less than Container Load) | Shared container space | 1 – 25 | Cost-effective for SMEs, irregular shipments, or product samples |
Use our CBM calculator for shipping to accurately estimate container volume and optimize ocean freight costs for your Korea-US shipments.
International Door-to-Door Delivery
International door-to-door delivery from South Korea to the US offers businesses a streamlined shipping solution. This end-to-end service covers every step from origin packaging, international transit, and customs clearance to final delivery at the client’s doorstep. Companies benefit from reduced operational complexity, faster transit times, and full visibility throughout the shipment process, ensuring goods reach their destination securely and on schedule.
Amazon FBA Shipping: South Korea to US
TopShipping provides Amazon FBA shipping solution for sellers shipping from South Korea to the US. The service includes compliant packaging, FBA-specific labeling, customs documentation management, and coordinated international logistics to ensure timely delivery to Amazon fulfillment centers. By leveraging this service, sellers can optimize supply chain efficiency, minimize delays, and maintain inventory readiness for continuous sales.
Estimated Delivery Times for South Korea to US Freight
Shipping from South Korea to US face critical timing decisions that affect inventory management and customer satisfaction. Understanding realistic transit times from Busan or Incheon ports to major US destinations helps importers plan procurement cycles and meet delivery commitments.
| Shipping Method | Transit Time (Port/Airport to Port/Airport) | Customs Clearance & Handling | Total Estimated Delivery Time (Door-to-Door) | Best Suited For |
| Express Courier | 2-5 business days | Included in service | 2-5 days | Urgent samples, small parcels, high-value goods |
| Air Freight | 3-7 days | 1-2 days | 5-10 days | Time-sensitive medium shipments, electronics restocking |
| Sea Freight (FCL) | 15-21 days | 2-3 days | 18-25 days | Large-volume shipments, bulk manufacturing supplies |
| Sea Freight (LCL) | 18-25 days | 2-3 days | 21-30 days | Smaller loads sharing container space, cost-conscious importers |
Factors Affecting Shipping Time
Understanding the factors that affect shipping time enables you to plan more effectively, avoid delays, and maintain shipments on schedule. Check out the key factors below:
- Seasonal & Peak Delays: Korean holidays, US peak seasons, and typhoon season can slow shipments. Plan ahead during holiday seasons like Korean Lunar New Year and U.S. holidays which often cause congestion and longer transit times. Add 3-5 buffer days during these periods.
- Customs Clearance: Accurate paperwork and duties are crucial. Ensure all documentation such as commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates is accurate and complete to prevent customs hold-ups. Korean KORUS FTA benefits can expedite processing.
- Shipping Method: Choose Express, Air, or Ocean based on urgency and cost. Express can take as little as 1-3 days, air freight is typically 5-10 days, and sea shipping can range anywhere from 20-45 days. Pick faster methods for critical shipments.
- Port Congestion: Busy ports or labor strikes may cause delays. Busan and Long Beach congestion directly impacts Korean exports. Track port status to stay ahead of potential disruptions.
- Package Size & Volume: Large or consolidated shipments take longer for handling and customs inspection. LCL shipments require additional consolidation time compared to FCL containers.
- Documentation Accuracy: Korean export requirements and US import compliance can delay clearance. Missing certificates of origin or incorrect HS codes add 2-4 days to processing time.
Shipping Costs from South Korea to US: Air, Sea & Express
Korean exporters shipping to US markets face fluctuating costs that directly impact profit margins and competitive pricing. From electronics manufacturers in Seoul to automotive suppliers in Busan, understanding expenses helps businesses budget accurately and maintain profitability across different order volumes.
| Service Type | Cost Range | Minimum Charge | Best For | Estimated Transit Time (Door-to-Door) |
| Express Courier | $100.60/kg (10kg) | $25-50 | Urgent samples, high-value lightweight goods | 2-5 days |
| Air Freight | $12.72/kg (100kg) – $7.21/kg (300kg+) | $200-500 | Medium shipments, time-sensitive orders | 5-10 days |
| Sea Freight (LCL) | $150-400/CBM | $300-600 | Small shipments sharing container space | 21-30 days |
| Sea Freight (FCL 20′) | $2,100-3,200 | $2,000 | Large shipments, bulk orders | 18-25 days |
| Sea Freight (FCL 40′) | $3,100-5,200 | $3,000 | High-volume manufacturing supplies | 18-25 days |
Shipping Cost Example: Medium-volume shipment of 150 kg cosmetics and skincare products from Seoul to Chicago via air freight
- Base freight cost: $1,908 (150kg × $12.72/kg)
- Fuel surcharge & handling: $285
- Customs clearance: $120
- Total cost: $2,313 (including all fees)
- Transit time: 7 days door-to-door
Note: KORUS FTA benefits reduce or eliminate duties on many electronics and automotive components imported from South Korea. For mid-volume shipments, this can make air freight more cost-effective compared to shipments from other Asian countries, thanks to lower total import costs and faster delivery.
Factors Affecting Shipping Costs
Shipping costs from Korea to the US vary due to several factors. Tracking these variables helps importers negotiate better rates and plan shipments more efficiently.
| Factor | Description / Impact on Costs |
| Shipment Weight & Dimensions | Air freight price per kg decreases with larger shipments—from $100.60/kg for 10 kg to $7.21/kg for 300 kg+. Volumetric weight often determines final charges. |
| Shipping Method & Speed | Express courier costs 5–10× more than sea freight but delivers faster. Choose based on urgency vs budget. |
| Seasonal Demand | Peak seasons (Q4 holidays, Korean New Year) increase rates 15–30%. Off-peak booking saves costs for non-urgent shipments. |
| Fuel Surcharges | Oil price fluctuations directly impact air and sea freight costs, adding 10–20% to base rates during volatile periods. |
| Port Pairs & Routes | Busan–Los Angeles routes offer competitive pricing; Busan–East Coast routes cost more due to longer transit. Direct services cost more but reduce handling. |
| Container Utilization | FCL is cost-effective for shipments over 15–20 CBM. LCL suits smaller volumes but includes consolidation fees. |
| Documentation & Compliance | Accurate paperwork prevents delays and penalties. Korean Certificate of Origin under KORUS FTA can reduce or eliminate duties. |
Check our Incoterms detailed guide to understand seller and buyer responsibilities, delivery terms, and how to optimize costs for your shipments.
Key Transit Routes Between South Korea and the US
Strategic route selection between Korean ports and US destinations directly impacts delivery schedules, costs, and supply chain reliability for B2B importers. The regular routes head to the West Coast terminals like Los Angeles and Long Beach while East Coast terminals involve New York and New Jersey.
Key Departure Ports In South Korea
- Port of Busan: Handled approximately 22.75 million TEUs in 2023, securing its position as the 7th busiest container port in the world. Primary gateway for Korean exports with automated terminals accommodating the world’s largest container vessels.
- Port of Incheon: Handled over 3 million TEUs in 2023, serving Seoul Metropolitan Area manufacturers. Critical access point for electronics exports with direct connections to major Korean industrial zones.
- Port of Gwangyang: Processed approximately 1.8 million TEUs in 2023, specializing in heavy industrial cargo. Located near POSCO steel facilities, ideal for automotive and industrial component exports.
Main Arrival Ports in the US
- Los Angeles/Long Beach: Most frequently used US ports for Korean shipments. West Coast gateways offering fastest transit times and competitive rates for Korean exports.
- New York/New Jersey: Primary East Coast gateway for Korean electronics and automotive components. Comprehensive rail connections serving eastern US markets.
- Seattle/Tacoma: Secondary West Coast option with direct Korean services. Efficient rail connections to inland US destinations and Canadian markets.
- Savannah/Charleston: Growing East Coast alternatives with modern container facilities. Strategic locations for southeastern US distribution networks.
Air Freight Hubs
- Incheon International Airport (ICN): South Korea’s primary air cargo hub, offering daily flights to major U.S. airports. Comprehensive cargo handling for electronics and automotive components.
- Los Angeles International (LAX): Primary US West Coast air cargo destination. Direct connections from Korean manufacturers with efficient ground transportation networks.
- Chicago O’Hare (ORD): Central US air cargo hub providing nationwide distribution. Strategic location for Korean exports reaching inland markets.
- John F. Kennedy (JFK): East Coast air freight gateway serving northeastern US markets. Direct Korean cargo flights with extensive ground handling capabilities.
Optimized Shipping Route Combinations
Here are the most efficient shipping routes from South Korea to US ports based on transit time, cargo type, and key advantages:
| Route | Transit Time | Best For | Key Advantages |
| Busan → Los Angeles/Long Beach | 12-15 days | High-volume electronics, consumer goods | Direct service, competitive rates, rail connections |
| Busan → New York/New Jersey | 20-25 days | East Coast distribution, automotive parts | Comprehensive rail network, major population centers |
| Incheon → Los Angeles | 13-16 days | Seoul-area manufacturers, time-sensitive cargo | Proximity to Seoul, frequent departures |
| Gwangyang → US Gulf Coast | 22-28 days | Industrial materials, energy equipment | Specialized handling, direct industrial access |
Understanding Customs, Duties & Insurance for Korea-US Trade
Thanks to trade agreements like KORUS FTA, many products shipped from Korea to the US face lower duties and smoother customs clearance. By understanding duty structures and delivery terms, importers can reduce landed costs and stay fully compliant with US regulations.
US Customs & Import Duties
- KORUS FTA Benefits: Over 95 percent of Korean industrial and consumer goods enter the United States free of duty. Electronics, automotive parts, and consumer goods qualify for zero-tariff treatment.
- MPF Exemption: Korean goods enter free of the merchandise processing fee (MPF) saving 0.3464% of cargo value per shipment.
- Certificate of Origin: Required document to claim FTA benefits. Korean exporters must verify goods meet origin requirements for preferential duty rates.
- Documentation Requirements: Accurate commercial invoices, packing lists, and correct HS codes prevent customs delays and penalty charges.
HS Codes Classification
Every product shipped from Korea to the US is classified under an HS Code, an international system used by customs authorities to identify goods. These codes determine the applicable duty rates, import restrictions, and required documentation. Using the correct HS Code ensures smooth customs clearance and accurate landed cost calculations. Check the official HS Code list for your products before shipping.
Incoterms & Delivery Options
Incoterms define the responsibilities of sellers and buyers in international shipments. Here’s a quick guide to common Incoterms and their delivery implications for Korea-US trade:
| Incoterm | Seller Responsibility | Buyer Responsibility | Best For |
| EXW | Goods ready at factory | All logistics & duties | Experienced importers wanting full control |
| FOB | Export clearance, loading on vessel | Ocean freight, import duties, delivery | Balanced responsibility sharing |
| CIF | Ocean freight, marine insurance | Import duties, customs clearance | Importers managing US logistics |
| DDP | Complete door-to-door delivery | Only unloading at destination CBM Calculator for Shipping | US buyers wanting delivered pricing |
Shipping Insurance Tips
- Marine insurance recommended for ocean freight (110-130% of cargo value)
- High-value electronics require comprehensive coverage including theft protection
- Express courier services include basic coverage; air freight needs separate insurance
Selecting a Freight Forwarder for South Korea to US Logistics
Access to established Korean logistics networks gives importers competitive advantages in Korea-US trade. This broad network drives down costs, ensures predictable transit times, and provides end-to-end visibility across all shipping modes.
| Logistics Network / Carrier | Type | Coverage / Services | Notes |
| CJ Logistics | Korean logistics company | Freight forwarding, customs clearance | Largest logistics provider in South Korea |
| Pantos Logistics | Global 3PL | Asia-Pacific coverage, freight forwarding | Third-party logistics services |
| DHL | International carrier | Express delivery worldwide | Handles door-to-door shipments |
| FedEx | International carrier | Express delivery worldwide | Handles door-to-door shipments |
| UPS | International carrier | Express delivery worldwide | Handles door-to-door shipments |
| Major Ocean Lines | Shipping lines | Busan/Incheon → US ports | Reliable ocean freight, predictable transit times |
How to Choose the Right Freight Forwarder
A reliable freight forwarder reduces delays, avoids hidden costs, and ensures smooth Korea-to-US shipments. Focus on these key factors:
- Experience & Korea-US Expertise: Proven knowledge of Korean ports, US customs, and KORUS FTA requirements. Verify track record with electronics, automotive, or similar products.
- Carrier Network & Flexibility: Access to multiple shipping modes from Busan, Incheon, and Gwangyang ports with competitive FCL/LCL rates to major US destinations.
- Customs & Compliance: Handles Korean Certificate of Origin documentation, US duties, and HS codes efficiently. KORUS FTA expertise maximizes duty savings.
- Transparent Pricing: Clear quotes covering Korean export fees, ocean/air freight, US customs clearance, and delivery costs without hidden surcharges.
- Tracking & Support: Real-time tracking technology and responsive customer service with Korean/English language support for seamless communication.
- Scalability: Ability to support growing shipments from small LCL orders to multiple container loads with value-added services like consolidation and warehousing.
Real-Time Tracking for Your South Korea-US Shipments
Korean importers need certainty at every stage of the supply chain. With real-time shipment visibility, you gain complete cargo monitoring from Korean ports to US destinations, knowing exactly where your goods are and when they’ll arrive. Below are key tracking features:
- Multi-Carrier Tracking: One tracking number for FedEx, DHL, UPS , air freight, and ocean shipments with real-time status updates from Korean logistics providers.
- End-to-End Milestones: Monitor pickup in Korea, export customs clearance, vessel/flight departure, US port arrival, customs clearance, and final delivery.
- Flexible Access: Track online, via mobile app, email, SMS, or API integration for seamless business integration with inventory management systems.
- Enhanced Visibility: Real-time ETAs, KORUS FTA customs status, delivery scheduling, and AI-powered delay notifications with Geofence technology.
Service-Based Tracking
- Express: GPS-level tracking with frequent updates from Korean cities to US addresses, including customs clearance progress and delivery confirmation.
- Air Freight: Flight schedules from Incheon ICN, airport handling updates, and transit progress to major US air cargo hubs like LAX, ORD, and JFK.
- Ocean Freight: Real-time vessel location, port notifications, and ETAs for containers departing Busan, Incheon, or Gwangyang to US West/East Coast ports.
- Local Korean Pickup: CJ Logistics, Hanjin Transportation, and Lotte Global Logistics tracking from Korean factories through international transit.
Additional Considerations When Shipping from South Korea to US
When shipping from South Korea to US, businesses should be aware of special handling requirements and regulatory restrictions to ensure smooth delivery.
Sensitive & Special Cargo Handling
- Handle fragile, temperature-sensitive, or hazardous goods with care
- Use appropriate packaging, labeling, and monitoring
- Ensure compliance with safety regulations and carrier requirements
Prohibited and Restricted Items
- Avoid shipping items banned by US customs or carriers
- Verify restricted items (e.g., chemicals, electronics, perishables) in advance
- Proper documentation and permits are required for allowed restricted goods
Final Review: Key Takeaways for Korea-US Shipping
Shipping from South Korea to the US requires balancing cost, speed, and compliance. Transit times range from 2–5 days for express courier, 5–10 days for air freight, 18–25 days for FCL ocean freight, and 21–30 days for LCL. Costs vary from $12–18/kg for express, $7–12/kg for air, $2,100–5,200 per FCL container, and $45–65 per CBM for LCL. Most goods enter duty-free under KORUS FTA, but accurate HS Codes and documentation are essential. Express is best for small or urgent shipments, air for medium/time-sensitive cargo, FCL for bulk, and LCL for smaller shared loads. Plan for peak seasons, work with trusted forwarders, and insure valuable cargo to ensure smooth and timely deliveries.
FAQ – Shipping from South Korea to US
How long does shipping from South Korea to the US take?
- Express courier: 2–5 business days
- Air freight: 5–10 business days (door-to-door)
- Ocean freight (FCL): 18–25 days
- Ocean freight (LCL): 21–30 days
Transit times depend on the port pair, customs clearance, and seasonal congestion.
How much does it cost to ship from South Korea to the US?
- Express courier: $12–18/kg
- Air freight: $7–12/kg (for 100–300 kg+)
- Ocean freight (FCL): $2,100–5,200 per container
- Ocean freight (LCL): $45–65 per CBM
Final costs vary by weight, dimensions, port of origin, and Incoterms.
Do I have to pay customs duties for imports from South Korea?
Most industrial and consumer goods enter duty-free under the KORUS FTA. Electronics, auto parts, and machinery often qualify for 0% tariffs. Importers must still pay handling fees and file correct HS Codes to ensure compliance.
What are HS Codes and why are they important?
HS Codes are international product classification numbers used by customs. They determine the duty rate, documentation, and import restrictions. Using the correct HS Code ensures smooth clearance and accurate landed costs.
What is the cheapest way to ship from South Korea to the US?
For small parcels under 30 kg, postal services or express economy options are cost-effective. For larger volumes, LCL sea freight is cheapest until shipments exceed ~15–20 CBM, where FCL becomes more economical.
Is FedEx or DHL available in South Korea?
Yes. Major couriers like FedEx, DHL, UPS and Korean providers (CJ Logistics, Hanjin, Lotte) operate nationwide, offering pickup, customs clearance, and door-to-door delivery to US destinations.
Should I buy shipping insurance?
Yes. Marine insurance is recommended for sea freight (usually 110–130% of cargo value). High-value electronics and automotive parts should always be insured against loss, theft, or damage.
