Ship Heavy Machinery to South Korea: Complete Guide

Shipping heavy machinery from the USA to South Korea is streamlined when handled by a trusted international freight forwarder. Whether transporting construction equipment, industrial machines, mining equipment, or agricultural machinery, proper preparation and documentation ensure safe and timely delivery.

This guide covers everything you need to know when you ship heavy machinery to South Korea—including shipping methods, destination ports, customs rules, costs, and transit times.

1. Types of Heavy Machinery Commonly Shipped

Machinery frequently shipped to South Korea includes:

  • Excavators & backhoes

  • Bulldozers & wheel loaders

  • Cranes & graders

  • Tractors & farm machinery

  • Mining and drilling equipment

  • Forklifts & industrial machines

2. Shipping Methods to South Korea

a. Roll-On Roll-Off (RoRo)

Best for self-propelled machinery.

Benefits:

  • Cost-effective

  • Quick loading and unloading

  • Ideal for running equipment

b. Container Shipping (20ft / 40ft)

Perfect for smaller or high-value machinery.

Benefits:

  • Full protection from weather

  • Added security

  • Can include accessories and parts

c. Flat Rack Shipping

Ideal for oversized or unusually shaped machinery.

Benefits:

  • Flexible dimensions

  • Strong securing system

  • Excellent for bulky loads

3. Heavy Machinery to South Korea Shipping Costs 

Costs depend on:

  • Machinery size and weight

  • RoRo, container, or flat rack

  • U.S. departure port

  • Insurance & handling fees

Typical price range:
$3,000 – $8,000+, depending on size and shipping method.

4. Heavy Machinery to South Korea Shipping Time from the USA 

Estimated transit times:

  • East Coast USA → Busan: 20–35 days

  • Gulf Coast USA → Incheon: 25–40 days

  • West Coast USA → South Korea (via container shipping): 20–30 days

Total timeline including booking + customs: 4–7 weeks

Heavy Machinery to South Korea

Heavy Machinery to South Korea

5. Heavy Machinery to South Korea U.S. Departure Ports

Top U.S. ports for shipping heavy machinery to South Korea:

  • Newark, NJ

  • Baltimore, MD

  • Savannah, GA

  • Houston, TX

  • Jacksonville, FL

  • Los Angeles, CA

📲 Message us or call today:
📧 ship@alltransportdepot.com
📲 WhatsApp: +1 (470) 791-4497
📞 Office: +1 (678) 528-5794
🌐 www.alltransportdepot.com

6. Arrival Ports in South Korea

Major ports for heavy machinery shipments:

  • Port of Busan – Primary hub for machinery imports

  • Port of Incheon

  • Port of Gwangyang

Busan is the most commonly used port due to efficiency and inland logistics connectivity.

7. Heavy Machinery to South Korea Required Export & Import Documents

Export Documents (USA):

  • Bill of Lading

  • Commercial invoice or proof of ownership

  • Passport or ID copy

  • Power of Attorney (if using an agent)

  • Export declaration

Import Documents (South Korea):

  • Bill of Lading

  • Commercial invoice

  • Packing list

  • Korean Customs declaration

  • Insurance documents

  • Import permit (if required)

Accurate documentation ensures faster customs clearance and fewer delays.

8. Preparing Heavy Machinery for Shipping

Key preparation steps:

  • Clean machinery thoroughly

  • Secure or remove detachable parts

  • Lock attachments and moving components

  • Reduce fuel levels

  • Disconnect batteries if required

  • Photograph condition before shipping

  • Ensure proper access for loading

9. Heavy Machinery to South Korea Customs Duties & Taxes

Typical fees include:

  • Import duty (varies by machinery type)

  • VAT (10%)

  • Port handling and inspection fees

  • Inland transportation costs

Proper documentation helps avoid delays and extra charges.

10. Why Choose All Transport Depot?

We provide:

  • RoRo, container & flat rack shipping

  • Nationwide U.S. machinery pickup

  • Full export paperwork support

  • Safe and secure equipment handling

  • Transparent pricing

  • Real-time shipment tracking

Your machinery is transported professionally from the USA to South Korea.

Final Thoughts

Shipping machinery to South Korea is efficient and secure when handled by a reliable logistics partner. All Transport Depot ensures smooth delivery from U.S. pickup to final arrival in Busan, Incheon, or Gwangyang.

📲 Message us or call today:
📧 ship@alltransportdepot.com
📲 WhatsApp: +1 (470) 791-4497
📞 Office: +1 (678) 528-5794
🌐 www.alltransportdepot.com

Mindy o