
Car Shipping Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is located in the state of Queensland in Australia. It is a great city with a beautiful skyline. It is the sixth most populous city in Australia and is known for its nightlife.
People come to reside in the Gold Coast for many reasons, including the water, the nightlife, the rainforest, and more. If you plan on living in this fun city in the area, consider having your vehicle shipped. Having your own vehicle will make travel much easier, and public transit won't be necessary.
Australia's Vehicle Import Regulations
Importing a vehicle into Australia requires adherence to specific regulations to ensure compliance and avoid potential legal issues. Before initiating the shipping process, it's essential to obtain a Vehicle Import Approval (VIA) from the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts. This approval is mandatory under the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018 and must be secured before the vehicle arrives in Australia. Additionally, vehicles must meet the Australian Design Rules (ADRs) to comply with national safety and environmental standards. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in delays, additional costs, or even the refusal of entry for the vehicle.
Costs Involved in Shipping
Shipping a car to the Gold Coast involves costs beyond the basic transportation fees. These include customs duties, Goods and Services Tax (GST), and potential Luxury Car Tax (LCT) if the vehicle's value exceeds certain thresholds. For instance, import duties are typically 5% of the vehicle's value, and GST is calculated at 10% of the combined value of the car, import duty, and shipping costs. It's advisable to consult with a customs broker or use online calculators to estimate these expenses accurately and avoid unexpected charges upon arrival.
Shipping Method
Choosing the correct shipping method is crucial for ensuring the safety and cost-effectiveness of transporting your vehicle. Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo) and container shipping are the two primary options. RoRo is generally more economical and involves driving the vehicle onto a specialized ship, but it exposes the car to external elements. Container shipping offers enhanced protection by enclosing the vehicle in a container, which is especially beneficial for high-value or classic cars. The choice between these methods should be based on budget, vehicle type, and personal preferences regarding security and exposure.
Price & Time Examples For Hauling
To/From | Ground | Ocean | Estimated Time |
---|---|---|---|
Gold Coast to (New York port) to New York, NY | $275 | $2700 | 5+37 days |
City Limits to (California port) to Los Angeles | $350 | $1500 | 5+26 days |
Local Delivery to (New York port) to Boston, MA | $400 | $2700 | 5+37 days |
Portland, OR to (California port) to the Area | $475 | $1500 | 6+26 days |
Gold Coast to (California port) to Phoenix, AZ | $550 | $1500 | 6+26 days |
Detroit, MI to (New York port) to Local Area | $575 | $2700 | 6+37 days |
City Limits to (New York port) to Atlanta, GA | $700 | $2700 | 6+37 days |
Denver, CO to (California port) to the Area | $775 | $1500 | 7+26 days |
Memphis, TN to (New York port) to Local Area | $800 | $2700 | 6+37 days |
Dallas, TX to (California port) to Gold Coast | $1,025 | $1500 | 7+26 days |
*Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and the type of vehicle.
*Save on ground transport costs by delivering the vehicle to the nearest port.
*Allow an additional 10 days to process the documents.
*Prices are for one car in a dedicated 20ft container. This is the safest and most reliable way to transport a vehicle internationally. Other items may be included in the container to help save you money when moving.
*The RoRo (roll on, roll off) method is less expensive, and loads can be completed in fewer days. Contact us now for a free RoRo quote.
Asbestos Compliance: A Critical Step in Vehicle Importation
Australia enforces strict regulations regarding asbestos in imported vehicles. Before shipping your car to the Gold Coast, it's imperative to ensure that components such as brake pads, gaskets, and clutches are asbestos-free. Failure to comply can result in costly delays, mandatory removal procedures, or even denial of entry. Engaging a certified asbestos testing service before shipment can help verify compliance and facilitate a smoother import process.
Is Shifting A Vehicle To The Area Difficult?
Shipping a vehicle anywhere outside the United States poses difficulties, but only because necessary steps must be taken and documents must be presented.

- Title and registration.
- Passport.
- A license or picture ID.
- Proof of purchase.
- Submission of a letter of compliance to the government of Australia.
- The vehicle must be left-handed or older than 1989.
- Please fill out the approval for shipment form and have it accepted.
Be sure to track everything regarding the load carefully. Know where the vehicle is at all times during cargo and its route. Know which port it will arrive at and when so that you can be present when it arrives.
Dispatching Methods Available.
You have the option of using air shifting, RO/RO dispatching, and container delivery. All of these methods work just as well, but they differ immensely.
Air hauling is an excellent method of dispatching a vehicle, but it is so expensive that many cannot afford it, so they opt for other methods of shipping.
The container method will allow you to move other belongings with the vehicle. You can fill the car with the property and the rest of the container. The container can be shared with another person to ease the costs. There are usually two different container sizes to choose from.

RO/RO shipping is the method of hauling that allows the vehicle to be moved alone and at a cheaper cost. The car must be empty and contain only floor mats, a jack, and a spare tire.
Biosecurity Measures: Preparing Your Vehicle for Inspection
Upon arrival in Australia, your vehicle will undergo a thorough biosecurity inspection to prevent the introduction of foreign contaminants. Inspectors will check for soil, plant material, and other biohazards in wheel wells, undercarriages, and engine compartments. To avoid delays and additional cleaning fees, it's advisable to have your car professionally cleaned before shipping, ensuring all potential contaminants are removed.
Port Handling and Associated Fees
Shipping a car to the Gold Coast involves various port handling charges upon arrival. These may include unloading fees, storage charges, and customs processing costs. For instance, port service charges can range from AUD 500 to AUD 700, depending on the port and services required. Awareness of these potential expenses and budgeting accordingly can help prevent unexpected costs during importation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a car to the Gold Coast from the USA?
Shipping a car from the USA to the Gold Coast typically ranges between $2,150 and $2,250, depending on factors like vehicle size, shipping method, and destination port. This estimate includes mandatory asbestos testing and compliance with Australia's ROVER system.
What are the customs requirements for importing a car into the Gold Coast?
To import a car into the Gold Coast, you'll need to obtain a Vehicle Import Approval (VIA) and ensure the vehicle is free from asbestos. Additionally, the car must be thoroughly cleaned to meet biosecurity standards, focusing on areas like the undercarriage and wheel arches.
How long does it take to ship a car to the Gold Coast?
The shipping duration varies based on the origin and shipping method. For instance, shipping from Los Angeles to Brisbane (the nearest major port to the Gold Coast) takes approximately 6 to 8 weeks, including customs clearance.
Can I ship personal items inside my car to the Gold Coast?
Yes, you can include personal items in your vehicle during shipping, provided you supply a detailed packing list. However, it's important to note that food items are strictly prohibited.