Vehicle Shipping NZ to Australia: Complete Guide 2025

Moving a vehicle across theTasman is a big decision, whether it is for a relocation, a purchase, or a classic car import. Every year, thousands of vehicles are shipped from NewZealand to Australia, making it one of the busiest shipping routes in Oceania.

The shipping distance is short, but the process involves multiple steps. You will need to meet government requirements for permits, biosecurity inspections, and customs clearance. A small oversight can cause delays and extra costs.

At Dolphin Shipping, we manage the process from start to finish. Our team prepares export clearance in New Zealand, organises shipping, and ensures your vehicle meets Australian import rules.

Step 1: Exporting a Car from New Zealand

Before your vehicle can be shipped, you will need:

• Proof of Ownership: Registration papers, purchase receipt, or NZTA record.
• Export Approval: Required by NZ Customs before departure.
• Vehicle Cleaning: While final inspection happens in Australia, cleaning in New Zealand reduces the risk of high re-cleaning fees.

Tip: Pay attention to the wheels, wheel arches, undercarriage, and engine bay. These are the most common areas flagged on arrival.

Step 2: Import Rules in Australia

1. Import Approval (Mandatory)

Every vehicle must have anImport Approval before shipping. This is issued by the Australian Department of Infrastructure.

• Without this document, your vehicle will not be released from customs.
• The application process usually takes 2 to 4 weeks.
• Apply here: Importing a Road Vehicle into Australia.

2. Biosecurity and Quarantine (DAFF or DAWR)

Australia enforces some of the strictest biosecurity laws in the world.

• All used vehicles undergo full external and internal inspection on arrival.
• If soil, seeds, or organic matter are found, the vehicle must be cleaned and reinspected. This costs between $400 and $800 AUD.
• In rare cases, non-compliant vehicles can be sent back to New Zealand at the owner’s expense.

Checklist before shipping (based on DAWR rules):

• Wheels, tyres, and wheel arches
• Engine bay and radiator fins
• Undercarriage and chassis rails
• Boot and spare wheel area
• Carpets, mats, and under seats
• Door seals and vents

3. Customs, Duties and GST

On arrival in Australia, you will need to budget for:

• Customs Entry Fee: $215 AUD
• GST: 10 percent of the vehicle’s value
• Duty: 5 percent of the vehicle’s value (this may not apply if exemptions are met)

Valuation methods accepted by Australian Customs:

1. A recent NZ sales agreement (within 12 months).
2. An independent Australian market valuation (we can arrange for $350 AUD).

4. Vehicle Age and Compliance Rules

Australia’s import rules vary depending on the vehicle type and age.

• Newer vehicles (less than 25 years old): Must comply with Australian Design Rules (ADR).
• Classic cars (25 years or older): Eligible for the Historic or Enthusiast Scheme, which has fewer compliance requirements.
• Left-hand drive vehicles: Only allowed if 30 years old or more, or under special exemptions.
• Personal imports: If you have owned and used the car overseas for at least 12 months, duty may be reduced or waived.

Step 3: Shipping Options Across the Tasman

*Costs are indicative only. Request a tailored quote for accuracy.

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Step 4: Typical Costs and Exclusions

Included in quotes: Freight, port handling, and standard clearance.

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Excluded (may apply depending on vehicle and inspection):

• Marine Insurance (premium depends on insured value)
• DAWR Cleaning and Reinspection: $400–$800 AUD
• Australian Customs Entry Fee: $215 AUD
• GST (10 percent) and Duty (5 percent)
• Market Valuation Report: $350 AUD

Step 5: Shipping Timeline

1. Get a Quote: Based on vehicle type, size and shipping method.
2. Apply for import Approval: Processing takes 2 to 4 weeks. it is advisable to apply before departure.
3. Prepare Vehicle: Clean thoroughly and gather documents.
4. Book Shipping: RoRo or container service scheduled.
5. Vehicle Export (NZ): Cleared by NZ Customs.
6. Transit Across Tasman: 7 to 14 days at sea.
7. Arrival in Australia: Biosecurity inspection and customs clearance.
8. Final Release: Vehicle delivered or collected once duties and GST are paid.

Preparing Your Vehicle: Checklist

• Clean inside and out, including undercarriage, boot, and carpets.
• Remove personal belongings, which are not allowed during shipping.
• Drain windshield washer reservoirs.
• Provide proof of ownership documents.
• Apply for and receive Import Approval.
• Take dated photos of the vehicle before shipment for insurance purposes.

Expanded FAQs

Can I drive my vehicle immediately after arrival?
Not always. Vehicles may need compliance checks or registration in Australia before being driven on public roads.

Does the Free Trade Agreement between NZ and Australia remove import duty?
In many cases, yes, but duty exemptions depend on the import pathway. GST is still payable.

What happens if my car fails Australian biosecurity inspection?
It will be directed for cleaning and reinspection. You will need to pay the costs before release.

Can I import motorcycles, boats, or trucks?
Yes. Similar rules apply, but costs vary by size and category.

How early should I start the process?
Ideally 6 to 8 weeks before departure. This allows time for Import Approval and cleaning.

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People Also Ask

• How long does it take to ship a car from NZ to Australia? 7 to 14 days port-to-port, plus time for customs and quarantine.

• What is the cost of shipping a car? From around $4,000 NZD for RoRo, plus customs fee, GST, and duty.‍

• Do i need an import permit? Yes. An Import Approval is required, and it is strongly advised to have this in place before shipping.

• Do vehicles need to be cleaned? Yes. Biosecurity requires spotless vehicles inside and out.

• Can i put luggage in the car? No. Vehicles must be shipped empty.

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Why Choose Dolphin Shipping?

• Reliable schedules across the Tasman
• Full compliance with NZ export and Australian import laws
• Transparent, itemised quotes
• Expert advice on duties, GST, and vehicle valuation
• Decades of experience in NZ–Australia vehicle logistics

Shipping a car from New Zealand to Australia requires careful planning. You need permits, inspections, and compliance with strict Australian rules. With the right preparation, the process is straightforward.

At Dolphin Shipping, we handle the export paperwork, shipping logistics, biosecurity requirements, and customs clearance. Our experience makes your shipment smooth and stress-free.

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 Request a tailored quote today and let us manage your next vehicle shipment.

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