Importing a vehicle sounds simple in theory. You buy a car overseas, book shipping, and wait for it to arrive. In practice, it is full of details that can catch importers by surprise: cleaning requirements, compliance rules, inspection timelines, and unexpected port costs.

At Dolphin Shipping, we talk to customers every week who have been given the wrong advice online or from inexperienced agents. This guide clears up the most common myths about importing cars, caravans, and motorhomes to New Zealand, so you can make confident, informed decisions before you ship.

Myth 1: All Shipping Companies Offer the Same Service

Many companies claim to provide complete import solutions, but few manage the full process. Some handle only freight, others only customs, leaving you to organise compliance and inspection yourself.

Reality

At Dolphin Shipping, our service covers the entire import chain from port booking to delivery for compliance inspection. We also coordinate directly with trusted partners such as Fasttrack Compliance (Auckland) and Magnum Compliance (Christchurch). This means fewer handovers, faster clearance, and clearer communication.

Myth 2: Cleaning Is Optional

One of the biggest reasons for delays at New Zealand ports is biosecurity failure. Many importers believe the cleaning they complete is good enough.

Reality

New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) enforces some of the strictest standards in the world. Even a few leaves or soil on the undercarriage can result in a re-cleaning order and added cost. Dolphin Shipping arranges pre-export cleaning and MPI inspection coordination, ensuring vehicles arrive ready for clearance.

Myth 3: Door to Door Shipping Costs More

Some importers choose to handle parts of the process themselves, thinking it saves money.

Reality

Door to door shipping can be more cost-effective once you account for storage fees, missed documents, and delays. A coordinated import reduces repeat inspections and avoids errors that cause re-booking or additional charges. With Dolphin Shipping, everything is quoted upfront so you know exactly what is and is not included.

Myth 4: Any Car Can Be Imported

Not every vehicle that is available overseas meets New Zealand’s import rules.

Reality

NZTA regulations restrict certain left-hand-drive or non-compliant models. Before purchasing, always confirm the vehicle’s eligibility and safety standards. NZ Compliance centres can review your vehicle details before shipment to ensure it meets entry certification requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to import a car?

Average delivery takes between four to six weeks depending on port schedules and clearance time.

Can you handle compliance for me?

Yes. We coordinate with Fasttrack Compliance in Auckland and Magnum Compliance in Christchurch for NZTA certification and WOF checks.

Do you handle boats and motorhomes?

Yes. Dolphin Shipping manages shipments for vehicles, caravans, boats, and motorhomes.

Building Trust in Vehicle Imports

What sets a reliable shipping company apart is not the lowest quote but clear communication, experienced staff, and transparency at every step.

Customers choose Dolphin Shipping because we provide:
• Real timelines and honest expectations
• Local support in New Zealand
• Decades of proven import experience
• Trusted partnerships with compliance experts