India
Website customs India
Government website
Website chamber of commerce
Country Alpha-2 code: IN
Country Alpha-3 code: IND
Country numeric code: 356
GDP: USD 3.385 trillion (2023)
Currency: Indian Rupee
Inhabitants: 1400744000
Language: HindiEnglish
Freight forwarders in India
India has no freight forwarders
Seaports in India
Airports in India
Shipping between India and South Korea
Navigating the logistics of shipping between India and South Korea can be complex. This guide covers essential aspects such as pre-import considerations, customs processes, shipping methods, and cost-saving strategies. Equip yourself with vital information for efficient and cost-effective shipping between these two dynamic markets.
Below you can also request multiple quotes from freight forwarders for your shipment.
Pre-import considerations
First of all, you should know the product class of what you are shipping. Determine the correct Harmonized System (HS) code for your goods, as this dictates applicable customs duties and taxes.
If you are importing from India to South Korea , check the Customs Tariff from South Korea. If you are importing from South Korea to India, check the Customs Tariff from India.
Make sure you understand all the product regulations, certifications, labeling requirements, and potential import restrictions or tariffs specific to your product category. A specialised freight forwarder can help you with this process.
Customs Clearance Process:
India to South Korea:
- Documentation: Prepare required documents, including commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and certificate of origin.
- Submission: Submit documents electronically through the Korea Customs Service or via a licensed customs broker.
- Inspection: Korean Customs may inspect shipments to ensure compliance with regulations.
- Duties and Taxes: Pay applicable customs duties and taxes, including the Value Added Tax (VAT), typically at 10%.
- Release: Once cleared, goods are released for delivery to the final destination.
South Korea to India:
- Documentation: Prepare necessary documents such as commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin, and relevant licenses.
- Submission: Submit documents electronically through the Indian Customs Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) or via a customs broker.
- Inspection: Indian Customs may conduct physical inspections to ensure regulatory compliance.
- Duties and Taxes: Pay applicable customs duties and the Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST).
- Release: After clearance, goods are released for delivery within India.
Efficient documentation and adherence to regulatory requirements are crucial for smooth customs clearance in both countries.
Costs to consider
- Freight Charges: Includes ocean or air freight rates. Ocean freight is typically more economical for bulk shipments, while air freight is faster but more expensive. Costs depend on shipment volume and weight.
- Customs Duties and Taxes: Both India and South Korea impose customs duties. South Korea charges a 10% Value Added Tax (VAT) on most imports, while India levies customs duties and the Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST).
- Handling Fees: Charges for loading, unloading, and handling cargo at ports and airports. These may include terminal handling charges and container freight station fees.
- Documentation Fees: Costs for preparing and submitting necessary shipping documents, including bills of lading, commercial invoices, and certificates of origin.
- Insurance: Insuring your shipment against loss, damage, or theft is recommended. Insurance costs vary based on the shipment's value and coverage level.
- Storage and Warehousing: Storage fees at ports or warehouses may apply if there are delays in customs clearance.
- Brokerage Fees: Fees paid to customs brokers for facilitating the clearance process and ensuring compliance with import/export regulations.
- Domestic Transportation: Costs for transporting goods from the port to the final destination, including trucking or rail charges.
Saving on Shipping Costs
- Compare Quotes: Obtain multiple quotes from different shipping companies to find the best rates. Zendeq can help you get competitive quotes from reliable carriers, ensuring you get the best deal.
- Consolidate Shipments: Combine smaller shipments into a single, larger shipment to benefit from bulk shipping rates.
- Optimize Packaging: Use efficient packaging to reduce weight and volume, which can lower shipping costs.
- Choose the Right Mode: Opt for ocean freight for bulk shipments to save costs, as it is generally cheaper than air freight.
- Negotiate Rates: Regular shippers can negotiate better rates with carriers based on volume and frequency.
- Plan Ahead: Avoid expedited shipping by planning shipments well in advance to take advantage of lower rates.
Sending Your Package: India to South Korea and Vice Versa
The India-South Korea trade corridor caters to both businesses and individuals. Here's a breakdown of how to send your package:
For Businesses:
Documents & Permits: Businesses need a commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and potentially additional permits depending on the goods (refer to resources like the Indian Department of Commerce https://commerce.gov.in/ and the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) https://www.kotra.or.kr/).
Carriers: Numerous reputable carriers offer India-South Korea shipping, including DHL, FedEx, UPS, major international shipping lines, and Korean companies like Hanjin Shipping. Research and compare their services based on your needs (speed, cost, cargo type).
For Individuals:
Restrictions: Be mindful of items prohibited by either country's customs (check the Indian Customs website [https://www.cbic.gov.in/] and the Korea Customs Service (KCS) website.
Carriers: Many options exist, including international courier companies (e.g., DHL Express, FedEx International Priority), postal services (India Post, Korea Post), or freight forwarders who specialize in smaller packages. Consider factors like speed, cost, tracking capabilities, and any size or weight limitations when choosing.
General Tips:
Pack securely: Use high-quality packaging materials to protect your shipment during transit.
Declare accurately: Clearly list contents and their value on customs documents to avoid delays.
Insurance (optional): Consider insurance for valuable items to protect against potential loss or damage.
Great Online Resources for India-Korea Shipping
- International Trade Administration (ITA):
- Website: trade.gov
- Description: Offers extensive resources and guides on international trade regulations, market insights, and export assistance.
- World Bank:
- Website: worldbank.org
- Description: Provides comprehensive data, research, and reports on global trade, logistics performance, and economic indicators.
- Korea Customs Service:
- Website: customs.go.kr
- Description: Official portal for customs regulations, import/export procedures, and trade facilitation in South Korea.
- Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), India:
- Website: cbic.gov.in
- Description: Provides detailed information on customs regulations, tariffs, and procedures for imports and exports in India.
- DHL:
- Website: dhl.com
- Description: Offers insights into global shipping, logistics solutions, and market trends.
- FedEx:
- Website: fedex.com
- Description: Provides resources on international shipping, customs clearance, and logistics management.
- UPS:
- Website: ups.com
- Description: Offers comprehensive information on shipping services, customs brokerage, and supply chain solutions.
- Aramex:
- Website: aramex.com
- Description: Provides details on shipping services, logistics solutions, and market insights for the Middle East and Asia.
- Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT):
- Website: iift.ac.in
- Description: Offers research papers, studies, and publications on international trade and logistics.
- Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA):
- Website: kotra.or.kr
- Description: Provides comprehensive information on trade, investment, and market research related to South Korea.
Knowledge base
South Korea
Website customs
Government website
Website chamber of commerce
Country Alpha-2 code: KR
Country Alpha-3 code: KOR
Country numeric code: 410
GDP: USD 1.665 trillion (2023)
Currency: Won
Inhabitants: 51285153
Language: KoreanKorean Sign Language
Freight forwarders in South Korea
South Korea has no freight forwarders
Seaports in India
Airports in South Korea
South Korea
Website customs
Government website
Website chamber of commerce
Country Alpha-2 code: KR
Country Alpha-3 code: KOR
Country numeric code: 410
GDP: USD 1.665 trillion (2023)
Currency: Won
Inhabitants: 51285153
Language: KoreanKorean Sign Language
Freight forwarders in South Korea
South Korea has no freight forwarders
Seaports in India
Airports in South Korea
India
Website customs India
Government website
Website chamber of commerce
Country Alpha-2 code: IN
Country Alpha-3 code: IND
Country numeric code: 356
GDP: USD 3.385 trillion (2023)
Currency: Indian Rupee
Inhabitants: 1400744000
Language: HindiEnglish
Freight forwarders in India
India has no freight forwarders