Thinking about moving your vehicle from New Zealand to Australia? With the right support, it can transform into a manageable and exciting journey. Whether you’re relocating for personal adventures or expanding your business horizons, understanding the ins and outs of this process is crucial.
Our comprehensive guide is designed to simplify every step for New Zealanders, providing clear insights into regulations and costs. Let us be your trusted companion on this journey, ensuring a smooth and confident transition across the Tasman Sea.
Why Ship Your Vehicle?
For many vehicle owners in New Zealand, the decision to ship their car to Australia instead of selling and purchasing a new one is driven by several compelling reasons. One major factor is the significant depreciation vehicles experience within the first three years, which can lead to financial loss if sold prematurely. Shipping your vehicle allows you to retain its value and avoid the hassle of buying new.
Additionally, the similar motor vehicle registration standards between New Zealand and Australia mean that most cars are eligible for import without needing costly modifications. This compatibility simplifies the process, making shipping an attractive option.
Beyond financial considerations, many car owners have a sentimental attachment to their vehicles, making the prospect of parting with them undesirable. Shipping your vehicle allows you to keep a trusted and familiar ride, providing comfort and continuity as you settle into your new home. Moreover, the convenience of already knowing your car’s history and maintenance needs eliminates the uncertainty that a new purchase might bring.
First To Note: Regulations Governing Vehicle Importation
The Australian vehicle import regulations play a crucial role in determining whether a vehicle can be shipped to the country. Not all vehicles are eligible; factors such as the car’s age, its specialist nature (e.g. Custom-Built, Classic or Vintage, Luxury, Off-Road, etc.), and other specific criteria are considered. One key regulatory requirement is obtaining the Vehicle Import Approval (VIA) before initiating any shipping arrangements. It is important to note that transporting a vehicle to Australia without a VIA is considered an offence.
Eligibility and Requirements of Importing a Vehicle to Australia
This section delves into the specific criteria and qualifications necessary for importing a vehicle under the Personal Import Scheme, ensuring you meet all prerequisites.
Are You Eligible To Import A Vehicle Under PIS?
The Personal Import Scheme (PIS) allows individuals to bring approved motor vehicles, including motorcycles and trailers, into Australia. To qualify under this scheme, you must meet specific criteria related to citizenship, residency, and vehicle ownership:
- Citizenship and Residency Requirements:
- You must be an adult Australian citizen or permanent resident returning to Australia permanently after living abroad.
- Alternatively, you can be a migrant moving to Australia with a valid visa that grants permanent residency.
- New Zealand citizens entitled to remain in Australia indefinitely also qualify.
2. Vehicle Ownership and Usage:
- You need to have personally owned and used the vehicle overseas for at least 12 months before applying for import approval.
It’s important to note that companies and corporations are not eligible for this scheme. Additionally, individuals can only import one vehicle every five years under the PIS. This scheme ensures that personal use vehicles owned by individuals returning to or moving to Australia can be seamlessly integrated into their new lives down under.
How To Prove Prior Use and Ownership of Your Vehicle?
Proof of prior use and ownership is essential for importing a vehicle under PIS. The car must have been available for use as transport throughout the twelve-month qualifying period. This is typically substantiated by documents such as vehicle registration in the owner’s name and evidence that the car was garaged near the owner’s residence. It’s also necessary to show that the owner held an appropriate driving licence during this period.
Vehicle Import Restrictions to Consider
Before proceeding with vehicle shipping, it’s essential to be aware of specific restrictions. There are regulations related to vehicle emissions, asbestos content, and air-conditioner refrigeration that apply to imported vehicles.
Additionally, as of January 2023, electric and hybrid vehicles are classified as International Marine Dangerous Goods, and as they are classed as Dangerous Goods Items, Crown Relocations cannot assist in relocating them.
Applying for Vehicle Import Approval
Applications for VIA can be made either before or up to six months after arriving in Australia. The process involves registering with the Department of Infrastructure & Transport’s secure Client Portal, providing identification documents, and paying an application fee of A$50. Completed applications, including all supporting documentation, are typically assessed within 20 working days.
Vehicle Import Costs and Financial Considerations
This section provides a comprehensive overview of the financial aspects involved in importing a vehicle, from taxes to additional fees.
Potential Costs
When importing a vehicle into Australia, be prepared for potential costs, including customs duty, Goods and Services Tax (GST), and Luxury Car Tax (LCT). These charges typically apply unless the vehicle is returning to Australia unaltered or is imported temporarily by tourists or temporary residents. GST is levied at 10% of the vehicle’s value, while LCT applies at 33% on amounts exceeding the luxury tax threshold.
Additional Costs
In addition to shipping and basic import fees, there are other potential expenses to consider. The Australian Department of Agriculture conducts a physical quarantine examination on all imported vehicles, which incurs additional costs. If quarantine-approved cleaning is required, further charges will apply. Additionally, vehicles older than two years may require a valuation fee of approximately A$330.
Your Car’s Customs Value
For vehicles over two years old, a licensed valuer in Australia must assess the customs value. This valuation considers the market value, purchase value, depreciation, and any improvements made to the vehicle. If the vehicle is less than two years old, the customs value can be determined using the purchase receipt or through a valuation request.
Post-Importation Steps
After successfully importing your vehicle, this section covers the steps necessary to complete the process, including registration and potential resale.
Registering Your Vehicle in Australia
Once your vehicle has cleared customs, it needs to be registered in the relevant Australian state or territory. Costs and requirements vary, with some states necessitating a roadworthy examination by a licensed tester to ensure compliance with local regulations.
Selling an Imported Vehicle
Once a vehicle meets the import approval and initial registration requirements, there are generally no restrictions on selling it in Australia. However, it’s important to verify the conditions applied to the Vehicle Import Approval, as these may affect the resale process.
Professional Assistance
Shipping your vehicle from New Zealand to Australia can be effortless with proper preparation and understanding of regulations. For further details on the vehicle importation process and eligibility requirements, Australia’s Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts offers comprehensive information.
Also, engaging with a reliable partner can provide additional support. Crown’s Vehicle Relocations & Storage Service ensures a seamless and stress-free vehicle importation. Our expert team is ready to assist with all your export documentation and shipping logistics needs.
