New Zealand isn’t far from Australia, but how do you navigate the waters to get your car into Oz?
Thankfully it’s not as complicated as you might think, but there are several essential steps you must follow to ensure a smooth transition.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of getting your ride into Australia, and we’ll share some insights gathered from top experts in the field as well.
Choosing the Right Shipping Method
One of the most critical decisions you’ll make when shipping your car to Australia is selecting the right shipping method.
The two primary options are container shipping and roll-on/roll-off (you can say “RoRo” if you want to sound like you know what you’re talking about).
Container shipping offers added protection, but RoRo tends to be more cost-effective. Issues can occur with both, so it’s best to anticipate small issues to occur. For example, I shipped three Toyota Alphards in one container, and one was so heavily pressed to the rear of the container I had to fork out $200 to replace a rear bumper bracket.
Your choice will depend on your budget and the level of protection your vehicle requires. If you use an agent, they’ll likely save you money by shipping your car and others in one container.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Shipping
Before your car can embark on its journey across the Tasman Sea to the beautiful and warmer shores of Australia, there are important preparations to be made.
My first experience with importing a car into Australia was my Honda CRX siR. I had to pay a fair whack for “bio cleaning”, even though my car was, by my standards, already pristine when I shipped it.
Make sure you clean your vehicle thoroughly prior to shipping it to Australia. Ensure everything is in good working order, and remove any personal belongings – they may mysteriously vanish during shipping.
Getting your car roadworthy in Australia can be a pain if it fails inspection (known as “going over the pits”). If your car is in good shape, which is what you want, then it shouldn’t be a problem. Generally it’s worth getting all issues sorted in New Zealand by a mechanic you know, before shipping it to your new home in Australia.
Taking these steps will help prevent delays and complications during the shipping process.
Choosing the Right Shipping Company
Selecting a reputable shipping company or agent is crucial. The top-rated companies provide professional services and have experience with international car shipments. In short, they’ll make sure your car gets safely into Australia without any costly hic-ups.
I’ll add you can do it yourself – I know, because I’ve done it myself – but even I use an agent these days. Far. Less. Stressful.
Research companies and agents thoroughly. Read customer reviews and Facebook comments, and obtain quotes from different companies to compare costs and services offered.
Dealing with Customs and Import Procedures
Both New Zealand and Australia have specific customs and import procedures when it comes to shipping a car. Australia is the stricter of the two, and by that I mean the most painful, and potentially the most costly.
Make sure you comply with all requirements, which may include paying import duties, taxes, and ensuring your vehicle meets safety and emissions standards.
Requirements can differ based on type of car and age of car.
As a bonus tip, expect time delays for the import process. As much as you long to take your car out for a spin as soon as it lands at the docks, you won’t be able to. You’ll need to give the process a few weeks, so read a book on patience.
Get Your Car Insuranced
Protecting your vehicle during transit is vital.
Worst case with RoRo, it will roll of the boat.
Don’t worry too much, because that rarely happens, but minor damage and theft of aftermarket car parts can and does occur.
Most shipping companies offer insurance, but it’s wise to understand the coverage and consider additional insurance options. This extra layer of protection can provide peace of mind throughout the shipping process.
How much is your car worth to you? Is it worth paying a few bucks in insurance?
Real-Life Experiences and Tips
It’s always helpful to hear from those who have been through the process. Real-life experiences can provide valuable insights and tips to make your car shipping experience as smooth as possible.
Connect with others who’ve shipped their cars or seek advice on online forums and communities. This is easy in this day of social media, and highly recommended.
Here’s Jim’s account of shipping his beloved Skyline into Australia (using Phoenix Shipping):
I recently shipped my Nissan Skyline from New Zealand to Australia using Phoenix Shipping, and I couldn’t be more pleased with the entire experience. From the very beginning, their professionalism and excellent communication made the process remarkably smooth and stress-free. They provided clear guidance on documentation, fees, and timelines, which was incredibly helpful.
What impressed me the most was their commitment to the safety and security of my vehicle. My Nissan Skyline means a lot to me, and Phoenix Shipping ensured it was handled with the utmost care from pickup to delivery. When my car arrived in Australia, it was in the same impeccable condition as when it left New Zealand – a huge relief!
Phoenix Shipping’s assistance with customs and import procedures was also invaluable. They guided me through every step, making sure all requirements were met without any issues. Their knowledge of international shipping regulations was evident, and it made a significant difference in my experience. Moreover, their insurance options provided extra peace of mind.
In conclusion, I highly recommend Phoenix Shipping for anyone looking to ship their vehicle from New Zealand to Australia. They truly transformed what could have been a stressful experience into a smooth and successful endeavor. Thank you, Phoenix Shipping, for your outstanding service!
Best regards, Jim
Our Kiwi mate Jim who shipped his Skyline from NZ to Australia
Useful links and resources
We hope this guide has given you the confidence to ship your car with you from NZ to Australia. Here in Oz we love our cars, and any car enthusiast is our friend.
For more information, here are a few useful resources:
- Vehicle Shipping Australia – What is the process of importing a car into Australia?
- Allied – Moving a car overseas from New Zealand to Australia.
In conclusion, shipping a car from New Zealand to Australia involves several key steps, from choosing the right shipping method to navigating customs procedures.
By carefully planning and following the advice of experts, you can ensure a successful and stress-free experience.
Remember the specifics may vary depending on your individual circumstances and type/age of car, so always consult the most up-to-date resources and experts in the field before embarking on your car shipping journey.
Safe travels, and we look forward to seeing your ride on Aussie streets!
