Avoid Customs Charges When Shipping from Korea to USA

Avoid Customs Charges When Shipping from Korea to USA

Shipping parcels from Korea to the United States can be straightforward if you understand U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) rules. By declaring shipments accurately, you can avoid heavy duties or return-to-sender issues. Here are key practices to help you navigate this process smoothly.

Understanding Customs Regulations

When sending items internationally, it's crucial to grasp the customs regulations that apply. This understanding can save you time and money.

1. Keep the Declared Value at or Below USD 100

The U.S. de minimis threshold for duty-free personal shipments is generally USD 100. Ensure you list the HS code, product name, detailed description, and value clearly. Always state the country of origin as Korea, not China, if the item is Korean-made. This clarity helps customs officials process your package without complications.

2. Never Under-Declare Value

Falsely lowering the declared price can lead to severe consequences. Customs officers often verify market prices and may revalue the shipment. Under-declaring can result in seizure, additional duties, and return shipping costs. Always declare the true value of your items.

3. Avoid Corporate Identifiers

Even for gifts under USD 100, if the sender's name, outer box, or packing tape shows a company name or logo, CBP may treat it as a commercial import. This can lead to unexpected duties. Use plain packaging and list an individual sender to avoid complications.

4. New Items May Be Flagged as Resale Goods

Brand-new products can be considered commercial merchandise. When possible, indicate that items are “personal gifts” or “used” if accurate. Including a short explanation on the customs form can also help clarify the nature of the shipment.

5. Repetitive Shipments Raise Red Flags

If one person sends identical goods to multiple U.S. recipients, CBP may classify them as sales rather than gifts. To avoid this, space out shipments and vary the contents when possible. This approach reduces the likelihood of scrutiny from customs.

6. Limit Product Variety in Each Box

Sending fewer types of similar items per package is advisable. Mixed categories in one box may trigger closer inspection and a higher declared value. Keeping it simple can help streamline the customs process.

Company Practice Example

Allthatsales prepares a customs pre-clearance consent form at the Korean post office. They ship strictly person-to-person to minimize risk. However, it's important to note that no method guarantees full protection from duties or delays.

Additional Fee Notice

As of September 22, a U.S. customs processing surcharge of about USD 1.60 per package applies. U.S. buyers should be aware of this added cost when receiving shipments.

Conclusion: Best Practices for Shipping

Following these guidelines—accurate declaration, simple packaging, and honest documentation—keeps shipments compliant. This reduces the chance of unexpected “customs bomb” charges when sending parcels from Korea to the United States.

By adhering to these practices, you can ensure a smoother shipping experience. Remember, understanding customs regulations is key to avoiding unnecessary fees and delays.