Information in this section is for private persons sending items into and out of New Zealand.
Businesses importing and exporting items for commercial use have different requirements, and that information is available in its own section on this website.
Bringing items into New Zealand (importing)
- Goods arriving from overseas by post and courier services may be liable for Customs duties and charges when they arrive.
- Some items can't be brought into New Zealand.
- To find out where your parcel is, you need to contact the shipper. Customs doesn't store goods and can't track or trace your parcel.
- The Duty Estimator tool can help you estimate duty you might need to pay Customs.
Sending items out of New Zealand (exporting)
- If you're sending items out of New Zealand by fast freight (courier), air, or sea, you must have a Customs export clearance.
- If you’re sending something by post, you only need a Customs export clearance if the package is NZ$1000 or more, or for commercial purposes.
- If you're sending goods overseas for repair or refurbishment and then re-importing them, you may have to pay duty and GST charges when the goods arrive back in New Zealand.
More detailed information related to receiving items and sending items out of New Zealand is available on the pages below.
If you're planning on bringing items into NZ (importing), or sending items overseas (exporting) that are worth over NZ$1000, you need to apply for a Customs Number.
What you need to know about importing items into New Zealand, including via online shopping.
What you need to know if you want to send items out of New Zealand.
You might have to pay duty and GST when you buy something from another country and bring it into New Zealand. These charges may apply whether you purchased the item via online shopping or in person while on holiday or on business.
Information on how to pay Customs charges via online banking.
How to find your parcel when your shipment's tracking says it's with Customs.