Review: Shop and Box

Hi guys,

Although the weather is still freezing cold in New York (narrowly avoided another snow storm this weekend), spring is in full bloom in other parts of the world. Most noticeably, South Korea. If you've never seen the cherry blossoms in Korea before, it is definitely worth a trip.

So today, I'm bringing you a special post introducing my favorite website/app called Shop and Box. if you're interested in picking up some of the newest spring edition makeup collections from Korea, keep reading below!


I first discovered this website when I did a quick google search, desperate for a makeup brush exclusive to Korea. The brand is called Soo Ador and these days I keep reaching for their small foundation brush.

As I write this, I actually have a second order in the making (you get 25% off of the Shop and Box fee if you place a second order). I could do a review of all the products I picked up here, but I'm going to briefly explain what the website/app is, how to use it, and my general first impressions!

Step 1 With tons of countries to choose from, the options are nearly limitless. Next time I'd like to place an order with a boxer from Japan, but this post will primarily be focused on Korea. First, you're going to create your order. This is what the form looks like:

You're going to fill in the brand name, item name, category, the link to the item on the Korean website, and any additional info (size for clothing, color, and whether you want your boxer to buy the item online or in store). Generally, online will be cheaper. In Korea, there is usually free shipping, if not, the domestic shipping fee would be approximately 2,500 won. Otherwise, if the item is out of stock online or unavailable online, your boxer will charge you a small fee for travel expenses. This can be negotiated! If you need help navigating any Korean sites, your boxer is going to help later.

Step 2 Depending on the items you're primarily buying (it can be stationery, clothing, or even snacks!) you will be matched with a buyer. You can check out their feedback and previous orders. If you place more than on order you can request the same buyer, by giving your order a different title (this is easier to do on the phone app rather than the website for some reason).

Step 3 You can add more items to your order at any point before you pay the first invoice, so your boxer can use the provided funds to start shopping. Shop and Box primarily uses PayPal (don't worry about conversion rates between won and USD now, you'll be refunded later if there's a huge difference). If you want more items later, your boxer will help you create another order, and it can be consolidated into one order.

If you look at the image above, there will be a checkmark if your item had been ordered. The second column lets you know whether your item has arrived. As they arrive, your boxer will upload photos in the gallery. Domestic shipping in Korea is quite quick, usually 1-2 business days.

Step 4 Once all of your items have arrived/been picked up. Your boxer will pack an appropriately sized box, and tell you the weight. They will usually offer 2-3 options (DHL is the most expensive, and then there's EMS, you can add on insurance as well). Generally, it pays to buy several items rather than one, since shipping can be pricey. It's by weight, so if you choose a lot of small items (i.e.: cosmetics, it shouldn't weigh much).

Step 5 Once everything has been packed, you will get an Invoice 2 which includes the Shop and Box fee (about 14% of your total) and the shipping cost. When your boxer goes to the post office, if the shipping fee happens to be less (they will refund you the amount right away). Then you just wait. DHL and EMS are quite fast, expect it in less than 5 business days. Don't forget to leave a review for your boxer!

Suggestions and First Impressions

One of my favorite features of Shop and Box is the messenger. Communication with your boxer is super important! If you need recommendations or can't navigate Korean sites, your boxer can help. They will negotiate fees with you, update when items have come in or if they're sold out. If you have ANY questions, your buyer is there to help! (don't forget there's a time difference, so they can't always answer immediately).

I LOVE my boxer Magda she received a damaged notebook in the mail, and she went out of her way to go in store and exchange it. She responded promptly, suggested cheaper items and deals, and uploaded high-quality images of items I ordered. When I received my box, everything was packaged very well, and she even included free samples and a makeup brush that came with the Espoir Foundation. If there are items in South Korea that you want, and can't get them here (notable brands include Lily Byred, Mixxo and Soo Ador) Shop and Box is a great way to have someone do the shopping for you! It's also a great idea to put an order together with family and friends so you can split the shipping cost.

Item Recommendations

Another feature I love is the "what should I buy" feed. As buyers upload items they want, you can view them based on region. If you need ideas this is a great way to do it. This was how I discovered the website, googling an item that I couldn't find anywhere else! I'm going to list some items I recommend/are on my wish list right now. Click on the images below so you can access them easily and hopefully place your first order!

Mixxo

Spring Makeup Must-Haves

I also recommend checking out Korean jewelry websites by doing a search on naver.com, there are tons of sites that offer celebrity dupe earrings for 10,000 won ($10 USD) or less. Other jewelry website I love include: HAESOO.L and J.ESTINA, although they can be quite pricey. Check out stationery from Artbox and ask your boxer for any other recommendations.

Let me know what items you've been wanting to purchase from Korea in the comments below. As a note, this post was not sponsored in any way or form! Happy shopping!