South Korea is globally known for its export-oriented economy, which has developed rapidly since the Korean War. Thanks to exports, it’s grown into one of the most significant economies in the world from a destroyed country. According to the World Trade Organisation’s data, South Korea places seventh among the largest exporters of goods. Its main export products are electrical equipment, vehicles, petroleum oils, and parts and accessories for vehicles. Depending on the type of goods and your requirements, you’ll have to choose the most suitable way to ship your cargo. We present all you need to know about shipping from South Korea to Germany.
Shipping from South Korea to Germany – Means of transport
Sea freight from South Korea to Germany
Sea freight is the most commonly used means of transport in international trade. Its popularity is mainly due to its relatively low prices and convenience. It’s a perfect option for those who want to deliver their cargo in a container. However, one must keep in mind that while sea freight is the cheapest available method, it’s also the slowest one.
If you decide on sea freight, you’ll have to choose between FCL and LCL shipping. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand what they mean. FCL (Full Container Load) is most often chosen to ship larger loads, usually undersized. It refers to occupying a whole container by only one shipper. On the other hand, LCL (Less Container Load) stands for sharing one container with other shippers. It’s used to deliver general cargo.
Check the main cargo seaports in South Korea and Germany listed below.
Main cargo seaports in South Korea
- Port of Busan
- Port of Gwangyang
- Port of Incheon
- Port of Pyeongtaek
Main cargo seaports in Germany
- Port of Hamburg
- Port of Bremen and Bremerhaven
- Port of Wilhelmshaven
- Port of Duisburg
- Port of Rostock
Airfreight from South Korea to Germany
If the most important factors for you are safety and fast delivery, airfreight might be a better choice in your case. However, notice that airfreight is the most expensive way to deliver cargo. It’s mainly used to transport valuable goods, such as vehicles or jewelry. Due to its very short transit time, airfreight is also the best available option for delivering food, flowers, and pharmaceuticals. If your cargo has a short expiry date or must reach its destination in a short period, consider choosing airfreight.
What are the main cargo airports in South Korea and Germany?
Main cargo airports in South Korea
- Incheon International Airport (ICN)
- Jeju International Airport (CJU)
- Gimpo International Airport (GMP)
Main cargo airports in Germany
- Frankfurt Airport (FRA)
- Leipzig/Halle Airport (LEJ)
- Cologne/Bonn Airport (CGN)
- Frankfurt-Hahn Airport (HHN)
How much does shipping from South Korea to Germany cost?
The final shipping cost between countries will vary depending on the type and size of cargo, the chosen way of transport, the forwarder, and the distance. Therefore, we recommend comparing offers from at least a few various freight operators. You’ll find them on ShipHub. Fill in the form on the official website as shown in the picture below, and wait for the forwarders to send you their offers. Through ShipHub, you’ll quickly receive an in-depth quote on your shipment.
Shipping from South Korea to Germany – summary
There are two possible ways of shipping from South Korea to Germany. One is the cheapest but also the slowest sea freight. It’s a good option for those who want to save on transportation or deliver their cargo in containers. On the other hand, there’s expensive airfreight, the fastest and the safest way to transport goods. It’s the best choice for articles with a short expiry date and a preferable method to deliver valuable products.
Before making the final choice, compare at least a few offers from different forwarders. Choose the most suitable one for your cargo and financial ability.
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