Lodgement timeframe

The information on your export entry or declaration is vital. This enables Customs to assess the level of risk and decide whether we need to examine any shipment before the shipment is loaded for export.

Currently exporters are encouraged to lodge an export entry not less than 48 hours prior to the goods being loaded for export. Our computer system is able to screen an electronic export entry and provide either a delivery order or advice that examination is required within 60 minutes. We can do this any time, day or night.

However, if exporters lodge an entry less than 48 hours prior to loading for seafreight, or less than nine hours prior for airfreight, your goods may miss their scheduled voyage or flight if a Customs inspection is required.

In order to ensure shipment commitments, goods should be made available for any Customs intervention requirements (eg x-ray) within those same timeframes.

These are the New Zealand Custom Service’s timeframes and the requirements of port companies and airlines may differ. 

We recommend that all exporters lodge their electronic export entry or other declaration as soon as they have all information. Remember: information can move ahead of the goods.