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Step-by-Step Process for Import from Korea

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Financial Analyst

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Introduction

South Korea is famous for high-quality products such as electronics, mobiles, automotive parts, beauty products, chemicals, machines, and home appliances. Importing from Korea to India is common because Korean products are reliable and often come with strong testing and certification standards.

This Saving Mantra guide gives you a clear and easy step-by-step explanation of the complete import process.

Step-by-Step Process to Import from Korea

Step 1 — Finalize Your Product and Check Rules

Before importing, decide what you want to buy and check:

  • If the product is allowed to be imported
  • If it needs BIS approval (common for electronics)
  • If FSSAI or CDSCO approval is needed (for food, health, or medical items)
  • Whether the product requires special safety certificates

Knowing the rules early avoids customs issues.

Step 2 — Identify the Correct HS Code

Every product has an HS code which tells customs:

  • What duty you must pay
  • Whether the product is restricted
  • What documents are required

HS code accuracy is very important for a smooth import.

Step 3 — Complete Import Registrations

To import legally into India, you must have:

  • IEC (Importer Exporter Code)
  • GST Registration
  • AD Code registered at the port
  • Digital Signature Certificate

These are required for filing customs documents and clearing the goods.

Step 4 — Confirm Order with the Korean Supplier

When you choose a Korean manufacturer or exporter, finalise important details:

  • Product price
  • Quantity
  • Quality requirements
  • Incoterms (EXW, FOB, CIF, CIP, DAP)
  • Payment terms (TT, LC, etc.)
  • Delivery timeline

For new importers, CIF (includes shipping + insurance) is usually safer and easier.

Step 5 — Arrange Shipping

South Korea has excellent ports and shipping options.

Air Freight

Best for:

  • Electronics
  • Cosmetics
  • Samples
  • Small but valuable items

Sea Freight

Best for:

  • Bulk shipments
  • Heavy goods
  • Machinery

Choose based on urgency, cost, and product type.

Step 6 — Collect Export Documents from the Supplier

Your Korean supplier must provide:

  • Commercial Invoice
  • Packing List
  • Bill of Lading (sea) or Air Waybill (air)
  • Certificate of Origin
  • Test certificates (if needed)
  • Insurance Certificate (depending on Incoterm)

Check these documents carefully before shipment.

Step 7 — Customs Clearance in India

When the goods arrive at an Indian port or airport, the following steps happen:

Filing the Bill of Entry

Your customs broker submits the import documents online.

Duty Payment

You will pay:

  • Basic Customs Duty
  • Social Welfare Surcharge
  • IGST
  • Any additional duty (if applicable)

Customs Inspection

Customs may check the goods for:

  • Product quality
  • Correct classification
  • Safety and legal requirements

Release of Goods

Once duties are paid and everything is verified, customs gives “Out-of-Charge,” allowing you to take delivery.

Step 8 — Post-Import Compliance

After receiving your goods:

  • Keep all import documents safely for future audits
  • Claim GST input credit (if eligible)
  • Make sure products meet Indian safety and labelling norms
  • Maintain warranty and service records

Proper compliance helps avoid penalties later.

Document Checklist (Simple Summary)

From the Korean Supplier

  • Invoice
  • Packing List
  • Air Waybill / Bill of Lading
  • Certificate of Origin
  • Insurance Certificate
  • Test / Conformity Reports (if required)

For Indian Customs

  • IEC
  • GST Registration
  • AD Code
  • Bill of Entry
  • Duty Payment Receipts
  • Approvals (BIS, CDSCO, FSSAI etc., if needed)

Saving Mantra Tips for Smooth Import

  • Always verify Korean supplier certifications (KFDA, KC Mark, etc.).
  • Avoid under-invoicing—it leads to penalties.
  • Check product labelling requirements before shipping.
  • Choose reliable freight forwarders familiar with Korean ports.
  • Maintain document transparency for faster customs clearance.

Disclaimer

This guide is for general informational purposes only. Import rules, customs duties, regulatory approvals, and documentation requirements may change at any time. Always verify the latest procedures with DGFT, Indian Customs, logistics providers, and certified professionals before importing. Saving Mantra is not responsible for decisions made using this information.

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