Shipping from Vietnam to Korea – Fast, Safe & Cost-Effective

Are you looking for a reliable way to ship goods from Vietnam to Korea? With growing trade relations between the two countries, demand for cross-border shipping is rising. Choosing the right logistics solution helps you save time, reduce costs, and ensure safe delivery.

This article provides a complete guide to shipping from Vietnam to Korea, covering methods, customs clearance, costs, and tips for smooth transportation.

1. Vietnam – Korea Trade Overview

• Strategic partners: Korea is one of Vietnam’s largest importers, especially in electronics, textiles, agricultural products, and consumer goods.
• Tariff advantages: Under the Vietnam-Korea Free Trade Agreement (VKFTA), more than 90% of goods benefit from reduced or zero tariffs.
• Market potential: Korean businesses and consumers demand high-quality imports from Vietnam, opening opportunities for exporters.

2. Shipping Options from Vietnam to Korea

✈ Air Freight – Fast & Reliable

• Best for small, urgent, or high-value shipments.
• Transit time: 3–6 business days from Vietnam to major airports in Korea (Incheon, Gimpo, Busan).
• Common goods: electronics, documents, accessories, e-commerce parcels.
• Pricing: based on actual weight or volumetric weight (whichever is greater).

🚢 Sea Freight – Cost-Effective for Large Shipments

• Ideal for bulky or heavy goods: machinery, raw materials, furniture, industrial products.
• Options: FCL (Full Container Load) or LCL (Less than Container Load).
• Transit time: 5–10 days from Vietnam ports (Ho Chi Minh City, Hai Phong, Da Nang) to Korea.
• Much cheaper per unit weight compared to air freight.

3. Types of Goods Commonly Shipped

• Personal items & gifts: clothes, cosmetics, household items.
• Electronics & parts: laptops, phones, components.
• Industrial goods: machinery, equipment, raw materials.
• Food & beverages: coffee, tea, dried fruits, packaged food (with proper documents).
• Furniture & décor: tables, chairs, lamps.
• Commercial goods: wholesale products, e-commerce orders.

⚠ Note: Hazardous items, liquids, chemicals, and batteries require special approval.

4. Customs Clearance Vietnam → Korea

Required Documents

• Commercial Invoice & Packing List
• Air Waybill / Bill of Lading
• Certificate of Origin (C/O) – needed to claim tariff benefits under VKFTA
• Additional certificates: health or safety documents for food, cosmetics, or electronics

Customs Notes

• Correct HS codes must be declared.
• Import duties and VAT apply depending on product type.
• Goods not meeting Korean safety or quality standards may face rejection or fines.

5. Shipping Costs: Key Factors

Shipping fees depend on:

• Weight & dimensions of goods
• Type of goods (fragile, hazardous, or special care required)
• Transport method (air vs sea)
• Delivery option: port-to-port or door-to-door

✅ Air Freight: Quick but more expensive, ideal for small urgent orders.
✅ Sea Freight: Affordable, best for long-term trade and large shipments.

6. Why Choose a Professional Freight Forwarder?

• ✔ Years of experience in Vietnam – Korea shipping
• ✔ Door-to-door service available
• ✔ Transparent pricing, no hidden costs
• ✔ 24/7 online tracking & customer support
• ✔ Expertise in handling customs procedures & documentation

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the cheapest way to ship from Vietnam to Korea?
👉 Sea freight is the most cost-effective for large or heavy shipments.

Q2: Can I send small packages?
👉 Yes, air freight or express delivery is ideal for small parcels and urgent documents.

Q3: Are shipments to Korea taxed?
👉 Yes, taxes and VAT depend on the goods’ type and declared value.

Q4: How long does shipping take?
👉 Air freight: 3–6 days. Sea freight: 5–10 days.

Q5: Can I track my shipment?
👉 Absolutely. Every shipment includes an online tracking system.

8. Conclusion

Shipping from Vietnam to Korea is now faster, safer, and more cost-effective than ever. By choosing the right transport method, preparing accurate documentation, and working with an experienced logistics partner, you can minimize risks, reduce costs, and ensure timely delivery.

👉 Whether you are a business exporting bulk goods or an individual sending personal items, Vietnam–Korea shipping solutions are designed to meet your needs.