With South Korea’s booming fashion industry and constant demand for trendy, affordable apparel, importing clothes from China has become a profitable strategy for retailers, e-commerce sellers, and boutiques. China’s proximity, massive clothing manufacturing base, and competitive pricing make it an ideal partner for South Korean fashion businesses.
This guide will walk you through how to ship clothes from China to South Korea, including sourcing, shipping methods, customs clearance, and regulatory requirements.
Why Import Clothes from China to South Korea?
China is the world’s largest exporter of garments — and for good reasons:
Fast shipping by both air and sea.
Affordable pricing for high-quality garments.
Vast choices for materials, styles, and manufacturing capacities.
Many factories offer low minimum order quantities.
1. Choose a Reliable Supplier in China
You can source clothing suppliers through:
- Online Platforms: Alibaba, Made-in-China, 1688 (Chinese only)
- Trade Shows: Canton Fair, CHIC (China International Fashion Fair)
- Sourcing Agents: Helpful if you need language support or factory verification
Tips for Supplier Selection:
- Check for export experience to South Korea.
- Ask for product samples.
- Verify business licenses and export certifications.
2. Choose the Right Shipping Method
Shipping from China to South Korea is relatively fast and cost-effective. Here’s a breakdown:
| Shipping Method | Transit Time | Best For | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air Freight | 1–3 days | Urgent or small-to-medium shipments | Medium–High | Fast and reliable |
| Sea Freight | 3–7 days | Large volume, less urgent orders | Low | Economical for bulk, FCL or LCL options |
| Express Courier (DHL, FedEx, UPS) | 1–3 days | Samples or e-commerce parcels | High | Door-to-door, customs handled by courier |
| Rail + Truck (via China) | 7–10 days | Rare, for hybrid logistics | Medium | Less common, but possible via Dalian/Incheon |
Major South Korean ports: Busan, Incheon
Major Chinese ports: Shanghai, Qingdao, Ningbo, Tianjin
3. Prepare Required Shipping Documents
You’ll need the following paperwork:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB)
- Certificate of Origin (if applicable)
- Import Declaration
Ensure all details—product name, material, HS code, declared value—are accurate and match.
4. Clear Customs in South Korea
South Korea has a well-developed customs system under Korea Customs Service (KCS). Here’s how to comply:
Import Duties for Clothing:
- Clothing (HS Code 61/62) usually taxed at 13%–18%
- 10% VAT (Value Added Tax) applied on CIF value + duty
- Use Korea’s UNI-PASS system to check accurate HS codes and rates
Low-Value Exemption:
- Imports under KRW 150,000 (≈USD 110) may be exempt from duty and VAT (except for some categories)
Tip: Hire a licensed Korean customs broker to streamline clearance.
5. Labeling & Product Compliance
South Korea requires correct labeling for textile and apparel imports:
- Country of Origin (“Made in China”)
- Fiber composition
- Washing/care instructions
- Size and product code
- Importer/distributor details (in Korean)
For children’s wear, ensure compliance with KC certification for safety standards.
6. Consider Using a Freight Forwarder
Freight forwarders can manage:
- Booking space with carriers
- Consolidation of goods
- Preparing shipping documents
- Customs clearance
- Final delivery in South Korea
This is ideal for first-time importers or those unfamiliar with logistics coordination.
Shipping Cost Estimate (Reference Only)
| Shipment Type | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Air Freight (100 kg) | $2–$5/kg |
| Sea Freight (LCL, 1 CBM) | $80–$120 |
| Courier (DHL/UPS) | $10–$20/kg (samples/small box) |
Prices fluctuate based on seasons, fuel surcharges, and volume discounts.
Common Challenges & Solutions
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Incorrect documentation | Double-check with your supplier and freight agent |
| Customs delays | Use experienced customs brokers |
| Mislabeling | Follow Korean labeling standards strictly |
| Overpaying on small shipments | Consolidate or use low-value exemptions strategically |
Conclusion
Shipping clothes from China to South Korea is a fast, profitable, and scalable business opportunity. Whether you’re running a fashion store, an online boutique, or a wholesale business, China’s vast supply and South Korea’s demand make it a great trade route.
Choose reliable suppliers, ensure proper documentation, and pick the most efficient shipping method to reduce costs and avoid delays.
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FAQ:
Q1:Do I need a license to import clothes into South Korea?
You don’t need a special import license, but you must complete a customs declaration and may need a business registration if importing commercially.
Q2:vWhat are the import duties on clothes in South Korea?
Typically 13%–18%, plus 10% VAT.
Q3:Can I use Alibaba to source clothes for South Korea?
Yes, many Korean businesses use Alibaba or other Chinese platforms. Always verify the supplier and request samples.
Q4:Is KC certification required for all clothes?
Not all—only specific products, like children’s clothing, require KC safety certification.