Air Freight Shipping from/to South Korea
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Air freight is the fastest way to move goods between South Korea and the rest of the world. With exports such as semiconductors, electronics, automobiles, ship components, machinery, and pharmaceuticals, South Korea depends on efficient logistics to maintain its position as one of Asia’s leading exporters. iContainers connects your business to global trade lanes with instant online quotes, transparent pricing, and expert customs support.
Get an Air Freight Quote from/to South Korea
Instant Online Rates
Get real-time quotes for air freight shipments to and from South Korea with just a few clicks. Compare airlines, routes, and delivery times, then instantly book via our digital platform.
How to Book Air Freight with iContainers
- Request your online quote.
- Select your preferred route and airline.
- Upload shipment details and required documents.
- Confirm and pay securely online.
Customs Clearance and Tracking Support
We provide full assistance with customs clearance in South Korea and destination countries. From requirements set by the Korea Customs Service (KCS) to inspections and approvals handled by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) and the Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency (APQA), our experts ensure compliance with national and international regulations. You also benefit from end-to-end shipment tracking for complete visibility.
Air Freight Services from/to South Korea
Shipping Large Cargo and Pallets (LCL by Air)
Key South Korean exports shipped by air include:
- Semiconductors and electronic components
- Automobiles and auto parts
- Pharmaceuticals and medical devices
- Machinery and industrial equipment
- Cosmetics and consumer goods
- Fresh seafood and agricultural products
Typical Transit Times for Air Freight South Korea Routes
- Incheon (ICN) → Frankfurt: ~2–3 business days
- Incheon (ICN) → New York: ~3–4 business days
- Incheon (ICN) → Dubai: ~2–3 business days
- Incheon (ICN) → Shanghai: <24 hours (hub-to-hub)
- Incheon (ICN) → London: ~2–3 business days
Main Airports in South Korea for Air Freight
- Incheon International Airport (ICN): South Korea’s main international cargo hub, handling semiconductors, machinery, and perishables.
- Gimhae International Airport (PUS, Busan): Regional hub serving southern industrial zones and electronics exports.
- Gimpo International Airport (GMP, Seoul): Secondary airport mainly for express and domestic cargo.
Air Freight Services
Understanding Air Freight from/to South Korea
What Is Air Freight?
Air freight is the transportation of goods by aircraft. It is faster and more secure than ocean freight, ideal for urgent or high-value cargo.
When to Choose Air Freight vs. Ocean Freight
- Choose air freight for time-sensitive, high-value, or perishable shipments (e.g., fresh produce, pharmaceuticals, wine).
- Choose ocean freight for bulk goods like soybeans, corn, or industrial equipment where cost efficiency is the priority.
Benefits of Air Freight for Businesses
- Speed: Access to global markets within days.
- Security: Reduced risk of theft or damage compared to other modes.
- Reliability: Predictable schedules with frequent departures.
Air Freight Costs from/to South Korea
Weight, Volume, and Cargo Type Factors
Air freight charges are calculated based on chargeable weight (actual vs. volumetric). Semiconductors and medical devices require secure handling, while seafood and fresh produce require cold-chain logistics.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
South Korean export cycles affect rates:
- Electronics & semiconductors (Q3–Q4): Demand peaks before year-end holidays.
- Pharmaceuticals (year-round): Steady demand, high compliance.
- Cosmetics (seasonal peaks): Driven by regional demand in Asia.
- Seafood/agriculture (seasonal exports): Cold-chain logistics increase costs.
- Holiday season (Oct–Dec): Global capacity constraints raise rates.
Customs Duties, Surcharges, and Local Fees
In addition to freight charges, shipments may include:
- Duties and VAT under Korea Customs Service (KCS).
- Health and sanitary inspection fees from MFDS and APQA.
- Handling and airport security charges.
- Aviation fuel surcharges.
Documentation & Packaging Requirements
Air Waybill and Commercial Invoice
Every shipment requires:
- Air Waybill (AWB): Transport contract between shipper and airline.
- Commercial Invoice: For customs clearance.
- Packing List: Cargo breakdown.
- Export Declarations (via KCS UNI-PASS system): For goods leaving South Korea.
- Sanitary/Phytosanitary Certificates: For food and agricultural products (issued by APQA).
Packaging Standards for Palletized Cargo
- ISPM-15 certified pallets.
- Refrigerated packaging for seafood and pharmaceuticals.
- Shrink-wrap, strapping, and clear labeling.
Prohibited and Restricted Items
South Korea follows IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) plus national rules:
- Prohibited: Narcotics, hazardous waste, counterfeit goods, explosives.
- Restricted: Pharmaceuticals (require MFDS clearance), agricultural products (regulated by APQA), and cultural heritage items (regulated by the Cultural Heritage Administration of Korea).
Why Choose iContainers for Air Freight South Korea?
- Instant quotes and easy booking via our digital platform
- Coverage international main airports
- Compliance expertise for SENASA, ANMAT, and customs requirements
- Shipment tracking from origin to destination
- Dedicated support team to guide you through documentation and regulations
Frequently Asked Questions about Air Freight from/to South Korea
Transit times range from 2 to 6 business days depending on the destination.
Incheon (ICN) is the primary hub, with Busan (PUS) and Gimpo (GMP) serving regional and express shipments.
Air Waybill (AWB), Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Export Declarations, and sanitary/phytosanitary certificates when applicable.
Narcotics, explosives, counterfeit goods, hazardous waste, and restricted agricultural, pharmaceutical, or cultural heritage items under IATA and Korean law.
References
- Korea Customs Service (KCS) – https://www.customs.go.kr
- Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) – https://www.mfds.go.kr
- Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency (APQA) – https://www.qia.go.kr
- Cultural Heritage Administration – https://english.cha.go.kr
- Incheon International Airport Cargo – https://www.airport.kr
- IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) – https://www.iata.org/en/programs/cargo/dgr/
