Clearance procedures
Shipping companies and removal companies will usually provide arrival papers when your vehicle is imported. Some freight forwarders/Customs brokers or removal companies will also assist you with the Customs formalities. They may charge a fee for their services for obtaining Customs clearance.
To obtain a delivery order for the vehicle you need to:
- arrange an agricultural clearance for the vehicle through the Biosecurity NZ. (search for a BACC - Biosecurity Authority/Clearance Certificate); and
- arrange for a Customs clearance.
To obtain a Customs clearance you need to present the following documentation:
- the agriculture clearance; and
- your passport; and
- invoice receipt showing total price paid and date of purchase; and
- registration papers or Certificate of Permanent Export (UK), Certificate of Title (USA), or De-registration Certificate (Japan); and
- invoice showing export costs (Japan); and
- invoice showing freight costs and insurance for shipment to New Zealand; and
- Bill of Lading; and
- odometer reading at time of sale for export to New Zealand; and
- odometer reading at time of importation into New Zealand; and
- carnet de passage en douane (tourist vehicles only); and
- additional information if you are also clearing household effects.
After Customs clearance, the vehicle should be presented to a Transport Services Delivery (TSD) agent for inspection and a compliance audit for certification for registration.
If you are intending to import a left hand drive vehicle, you will need to contact the
New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) at PO Box 2840, Wellington or phone 0800 108 809.
For further information regarding the importation of a private motor vehicle please refer to Customs
Fact Sheet 29.