How to import to Sri Lanka from South Korea

Essential shipping documentation

Ensuring accurate and complete documentation is crucial for smooth customs clearance when importing goods from South Korea to Sri Lanka. Provide complete and correct paperwork to avoid delays, additional costs, or even the seizure of the goods. Here are vital documents that businesses must prepare:

1. Commercial Invoice:
   • The exporter in South Korea prepares the commercial invoice.
   • It details the shipment, including the price, freight, insurance, packing costs, terms of delivery, and payment.
   • This document is crucial for determining the customs value of the goods in Sri Lanka.
2. Packing List:
   • This document specifies the contents of each package within the shipment.
   • It provides detailed information about the goods' nature, quantity, and packaging.
   • The packing list is essential for verifying the shipment's contents against the commercial invoice and for customs inspection.
3. Insurance Certificate (if applicable):
   • This certifies that the shipment is insured against loss or damage during transit.
   • It is necessary for risk management and is sometimes required by banks if the payment terms include insurance.
4. Transport Documents:
   • This would typically be the Bill of Lading for sea shipments and, for air cargo, an Air Waybill.
   • These documents serve as a contract of carriage and receipt of goods by the carrier.
5. Certificates of Origin, Inspection Certificates (if required):
   • Certificates of origin verify the country where the goods were manufactured.
   • Inspection certificates may be needed for certain products to ensure quality and adherence to standards.
6. Customs Goods Declaration (CUSDEC):
   • A vital document for Sri Lanka's customs detailing the imported commodities.
   • It is filled with utmost vigilance due to its revenue and statistical implications.
   • Guidelines for CUSDEC can be found on Sri Lanka Customs' official website.
7. Other Documents (if applicable):
   • Includes any permits/licenses required for specific goods.
   • Tea blend sheets are for imports, and material utilisation sheets are for specific products.
   • Direct Trader Input (DTI) registration for exporters or agents completing customs formalities remotely.
8. Submission of Documents to Commercial Banks:
   • For imports on DP (Documents against Payment) or DA (Documents against Acceptance) terms, shipping documents must be forwarded by the supplier's bank or by the supplier to a commercial bank in Sri Lanka.
   • If original documents are delayed, a shipping guarantee may be obtained, and copies of documents can be submitted for certification by the bank for clearance of goods.
   • The bank should receive original shipping documents within 30 days from the date of certification of copies.
9. Proof of Payment for Advance Payment Basis Imports:
   • For imports made on an Advanced Payment (AP) basis, satisfactory proof of payment, such as bank confirmations, is needed to release goods.
10. Clearance Documents for Consignment-Account Basis Imports:
    • Customs release goods imported on a consignment-account basis upon submission of relevant clearance documents.

Having these documents in order and ensuring they align with both South Korean export and Sri Lanka import regulations is vital for a hassle-free import process. Working with experienced logistics providers like DHL Express can provide invaluable assistance in managing this aspect of overseas shipping.

Packaging and labelling guidelines

When importing goods from South Korea to Sri Lanka, proper packaging and labelling are vital for the items' safety during transit and for ensuring compliance with Sri Lankan regulations. This compliance is essential for a smooth customs clearance procedure and to avoid delays or penalties.

Packaging standards:

1. Durability: Packaging should be robust enough to protect the goods during transit, handling, and storage. This includes using materials that can withstand movement, pressure, and possibly changes in temperature and humidity.
2. Size and weight: Packages should be designed to facilitate easy handling, maximise space in shipping containers, and comply with weight restrictions.
3. Materials: Use environmentally friendly and non-hazardous materials wherever possible. Certain materials may be restricted or require special handling.
4. Special requirements for certain goods: Fragile items, liquids, electronics, and perishables require special packaging. For instance, electronics might need anti-static packaging, while perishables require refrigeration or insulation.

Labelling requirements:

1. Basic information: Labels must include essential information like the name and address of the exporter and importer, country of origin, and a description of the goods.
2. Product-specific information: Depending on the product type, labels might need to include additional details. For example, food products require ingredients, nutritional information, and expiration dates, while clothing labels should have fabric composition and care instructions.
3. Handling instructions: This includes symbols or instructions for handling fragile items, items that need to be kept upright, or those requiring certain temperature conditions.
4. Regulatory compliance labels: Certain products require specific regulatory labels, such as safety standards for electronics or health warnings for chemicals.

Additional considerations:

• Customs labels and documentation: Ensure all necessary customs documentation is securely attached and visible. This includes any permits, certificates, or special declarations.
• Barcode and tracking labels: Barcodes and other tracking labels should be used whenever applicable for efficient processing and tracking.

Streamline your South Korea to Sri Lanka imports with DHL Express

Partnering with DHL Express can significantly simplify the complexities of importing from South Korea to Sri Lanka. With their profound expertise in international shipping and customs regulations, DHL Express is adept at navigating the intricacies of customs duties, taxes, and import procedures specific to these countries. We provide reliable and timely shipments, ensuring that goods are delivered efficiently and on schedule. The company's advanced tracking systems offer businesses transparency and security, allowing them to monitor their shipments closely. 

DHL Express caters to a wide range of shipping needs with customised logistics solutions, whether for fragile items, perishables, or large-scale industrial equipment. This flexibility makes them a suitable partner for businesses of all sizes, including small and medium-sized enterprises. Businesses can ensure a hassle-free import process by choosing DHL Express, bridging the trade gap between South Korea and Sri Lanka with ease and professionalism.

Discover how DHL Express Sri Lanka can help your business today.