Ship Car To New Zealand


Car Shipping New Zealand
Typical Shipping Prices – How Much Does It Cost?
- Vehicle shipping costs to New Zealand from the U.S. generally run between $3,500 and $7,000.
- An important consideration when shipping a car to New Zealand is that many left-hand drive cars will need to be converted, though some may qualify for an exemption.

Cost & Time Examples For Shipping a Car to New Zealand
| To/From | Ground | Ocean | Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose, CA to (California port) to Auckland | $200 | $3,400 | 5+17 |
| Los Angeles to (California port) to Dunedin | $350 | $4,300 | 5+27 |
| Boston, MA to (New York port) to Lyttleton | $400 | $3,600 | 5+30 |
| Portland, OR to (California port) to Auckland | $475 | $3,400 | 6+17 |
| Seattle, WA to (California port) to Dunedin | $550 | $4,300 | 6+27 |
| Columbus, OH to (New York port) to Tauranga | $550 | $3,400 | 5+64 |
| Chicago, IL to (New York port) to Chalmers | $675 | $3,600 | 6+30 |
| Atlanta, GA to (New York port) to Tauranga | $700 | $3,400 | 6+64 |
| Denver, CO to (California port) to Nelson | $775 | $4,300 | 7+26 |
| Houston, TX to (New York port) to Auckland | $1,075 | $3,400 | 7+30 |
*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 ten 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 shipments can be completed in fewer days. Contact us now for a free RoRo quote.
Importing your vehicle into a foreign country can often be a complex process. Still, armed with the correct information and backed by a reputable auto transport company, the procedure can be painless. The New Zealand Customs Service and the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) websites supply a wealth of knowledge.
Any vehicle imported into New Zealand(Aotearoa) must pass a certification process given by an NZTA-approved certifier in compliance with all legal requirements. This ensures the vehicle meets or exceeds minimum vehicle standards determined by its type and age.
This certification includes a physical inspection that verifies several things, including, but not limited to, the following:
- The vehicle has a working and accurate odometer.
- The car meets the minimum frontal impact standard.
The importer must obtain proof of this certification before registering the vehicle. Before making shipping arrangements, it is in your best interest to check the New Zealand Transport Agency website and contact them directly with any questions.
Read more about the vehicle registration process in New Zealand.
Popular Dispatching Destinations
- Auckland
- Christchurch
- Dunedin
- Hamilton
- Invercargill
- Napier
- Nelson
- New Plymouth
- Palmerston North
- Rotorua
- Tauranga
- Whangarei
- Wellington
Duty-Free
New Zealand is one of the few countries that do not impose tariff duties on vehicles that are used for personal use. Motorhomes, however, are the exception and are subject to 10% customs duty. For cars worth more than $1000, there is a small import entry transaction fee (IETF) of $29.26 and a biosecurity system entry levy of $17.63 (payable to the Ministry for Primary Industries). Aotearoa does, however, charge a “Goods and Services Tax” (GST) that is calculated based on the vehicle’s value as determined by the CIF (Cost + Insurance + Freight), less any deductions for depreciation. This tax is currently at a flat percentage rate of 15%.
If you are permanently moving into New Zealand and can supply proof of residence on the date of importation, the GST will be waived (this will also waive customs duty in the case of a motorhome).

Required Documents for Sending A Vehicle
- Current New Zealand residence visa or permit.
- Current RETURNING residence visa or permit.
- New Zealand passport.
- Australian passport.
- Current NZ WORK permit or visa (issued for a minimum of 12 months)
- Current NZ VISITOR’S permit of visa (issued for a minimum of 3 years)
Upon the vehicle’s arrival in Aotearoa, it will be immediately inspected by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) for quarantine inspection and cleaning. It will then be transferred to Customs to complete clearance. At this point, the importer must supply certain documents to help with the process, as detailed below.

Documents Requested
- Passport.
- Commercial Invoice (indicating price paid and date of purchase)
- Current Registration.
- Certificate of Title.
- Freight Costs and Insurance Invoice.
- Bill of Lading.
- Odometer Reading (reading upon export from the previous country and reading upon import into NZ)
Because New Zealand does not charge a tariff duty, shipping your vehicle is often much less costly than in many other countries. Be sure to verify all information needed before making shipping arrangements, and ALWAYS ask questions if you are confused. New Zealand offers some great resources to make contact as easy as possible. Finally, enlist the help of an exceptionally trustworthy auto transport company to conclude the process.

Transporting Of Heavy Equipment & Oversized Cargo
Hiring international transporters with years of experience and all the proper credentials is the most excellent way to have your heavy equipment or oversized cargo shipped outside the United States. When you hire a reliable shipping company such as A1 AT, you can expect your cargo to be delivered safely and soundly with few concerns. With connections to the highest quality shipping equipment and the most current shipping technologies, we are optimistic that we can successfully ship your oversized cargo to the Netherlands.
Accomplishing all the requirements of the Netherlands may be the most tedious part of an international delivery for most individuals. Fortunately, at A1, we know these laws, and the tariffs must be paid before you can earn the certificate of import approval from Customs.
- Farm Equipment, including tractors, balers, harvesters, backhoes, etc.
- Construction equipment includes bulldozers, forklifts, pipes, hydraulic equipment, dumpers, rock breakers, etc.
- Mining equipment includes loaders, excavators, haulers, etc.
- Paving equipment includes asphalt pavers, planers, compactors, graders, reclaimers, etc.
- Agricultural Equipment, including tractors, combine harvesters, plows, spreaders, drills, mowers, planers, etc.
The Various Ways to Internationally Import Your Heavy Equipment
Through A1 Auto Transport, you have several shipping options to select from. However, you may not have all of these options available. Depending on the type of equipment or cargo you need to have delivered, you may have fewer choices regarding your shipping process. Our representatives will discuss your options with you after you answer a few of their questions.

Short Descriptions for Each International Transport Method
- Container shipping implements the most significant amount of security against outdoor elements by enclosing your cargo within four walls and a ceiling. If this is the desired transport method, all cargo must fit inside at least our 40-foot container.
- Flat rack shipping is an open-air service that includes securely attaching your cargo to a large metal frame. The metal rack is placed on top of the vessel, and your cargo is strapped to it.
- Roll-on/roll-off shipping is the cheapest method of transit across international borders. This outdoor service is for passengers with huge vehicles or heavy equipment who can use the ship's ramp to board and disembark the vessel. The vast majority of A1 passengers use this mode of transportation.
- Lift-on/lift-off shipping is an open-air transport method best for shipping large, broken-down vehicles, construction materials, and created heavy equipment. A crane is used to lift the cargo onto and off the ship.

Relevant Statistics
- Approximately 25,000 cars are imported into New Zealand each year through shipment.
- Depending on its size and distance, shipping a vehicle to New Zealand costs between $1,200 and $2,500.
- Over 90% of cars shipped to Aotearoa are used vehicles.
- On average, it takes around 35 days for a car to be shipped from overseas and arrive in Aotearoa.
- Auckland is the most popular port for car shipments to New Zealand, with over 70% of vehicles being received there.

General Facts
- Shipping a car to New Zealand involves sending a vehicle from another country to Aotearoa.
- Vehicle import standards and regulations in New Zealand must be complied with when shipping a car.
- The cost of shipping a vehicle to Aotearoa can vary depending on factors such as the size of the car and the shipping route.
- Necessary documents for moving a car to New Zealand typically include proof of ownership, title, and vehicle condition documentation.
- Certain modifications may be required for cars being imported into Aotearoa to meet safety and environmental standards.
Other Services
- Overseas moving services to New Zealand
- New Zealand container shipping

Related Information
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I ship a car to New Zealand from the USA?
Shipping a car to New Zealand starts with confirming the vehicle meets NZ import standards, then selecting ocean transport via RoRo or container service. Most shipments depart from West Coast ports like Los Angeles or Oakland and arrive in Auckland or Tauranga. You will need the vehicle title, bill of sale, and export clearance before loading. Working with an experienced international car shipping service helps manage documentation, port coordination, and customs steps.
How long does it take to ship a car to New Zealand?
Transit time to ship a car to NZ averages 25 to 45 days port to port. West Coast sailings to Auckland are often closer to 25–30 days, while East Coast routes can exceed 45 days due to canal transit and transshipment. Weather conditions, port congestion, and customs inspections may add time. Inland pickup and final delivery timelines vary based on distance from ports and local scheduling.
How much does it cost to ship a car to New Zealand?
The cost to ship a car to New Zealand typically ranges from $3,500 to $7,000 for ocean transport from the USA. Pricing is influenced by departure port, vehicle size, shipping method, and seasonal capacity. West Coast routes are usually less expensive than East Coast shipments. Container shipping costs more than RoRo but offers added protection. Use a detailed car shipping cost guide to understand how distance and vehicle type affect pricing.
What shipping methods are available for cars going to New Zealand?
The two main options are roll-on roll-off (RoRo) and container shipping. RoRo is the most common and cost-effective method for operable vehicles, while container shipping is preferred for non-running, high-value, or classic cars. Container service offers greater protection but higher costs. Many customers choose RoRo due to simpler loading and faster port handling. Learn more about RoRo vehicle shipping to compare options.
How should I prepare my car before shipping it to New Zealand?
Proper preparation includes steam-cleaning the undercarriage, removing all personal items, and keeping the fuel level below one-quarter tank for RoRo shipments. The vehicle must be free of soil, plant matter, and debris to pass strict biosecurity inspections. Any remaining contamination can result in cleaning fees or delays at port. Following these steps reduces inspection risks and speeds up clearance.
What documents are required to import a car into New Zealand?
Importing a car into New Zealand requires the original title, bill of sale, passport copy, and export filing from the USA. Vehicles must also comply with New Zealand Transport Agency standards for emissions, frontal impact, and odometer accuracy. Biosecurity inspection is mandatory, and vehicles must be thoroughly cleaned before arrival. Using a professional international car shipping provider helps ensure documents are completed correctly.

Share on Facebook



