Your Essential Guide to Hassle-Free Shipping Down Under
Shipping goods overseas takes preparation, particularly to a country like New Zealand with strict border controls.
This guide gives a transparent picture of what you can expect when you transport goods, including navigating biosecurity, customs, costs and more for smooth deliveries.
Understanding New Zealand’s Border Requirements
New Zealand has some of the world’s tightest bio-security laws enforced by its customs service and Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) to protect its environment, agriculture and public health.
All incoming packages are inspected and proper declarations are crucial to avoid mail interceptions or fines.
Prohibited and Restricted Items
Some items are banned outright, others require permits or inspections:
Prohibited Items
- Fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy and eggs. HOUSE LANG SHOPPING LIST All the food […]
- Live plants, animals, or seeds
- Dirty gear and equipment (e.g., soiled hiking boots or tents)
- Arms (including flick knives or some arms components)
Injurious materials or endangered species products
Restricted Items
- Dried fruit, spices, honey or herbs (must be declared and may require inspection)
- Animal products (leather, feathers)
- If you are on medication (refer to guidance of Ministry of Health)
- Tobacco products (within specified allowances and subject to duties)
Refer to MPI’s online tool “Can I bring or send parcel to New Zealand?” for specific checks. Unauthorised risk goods can lead to fines from NZ$400 and seizure or destruction.
Customs Declarations
Each international postal item requires documentation:
- Include a CN22 (for low-value postal items) or CN23 form with description, quantities value and weight.
- Couriers often handle electronic submissions.
- Don’t use a generic term such as “gift”—be specific for more efficient processing.
Delivery Times and Shipping Options
Timeliness varies from service to origin:
- Express couriers (DHL, FedEx, UPS): 2–7 working days.
- Standard services: 6–16 working days.
- Economy postal: 10–20+ days.
Allow time (3–10 days) for customs and biosecurity clearance. Some remote areas may take a little longer, eg Townsville to remote QLD. For tracking, you should go for trackable services.
Costs Involved in International Shipping
Costs depend on weight, size and speed as well as sender’s location:
Small packages (1–2kg): Usually NZ$40–300 express or economy.
There is volumetric pricing for larger items, so pack efficiently.
Add insurance for valuables.
Compare shippers like DHL, UPS, or national postal services for the best rate.
Duties, Taxes, and Fees
- Goods worth less than NZ$1,000 (except alcohol/tobacco - duty/GST may apply): Often no duty or GST payable at the border.
- Above NZ$1,000: Import duty (0–10%, depends on the item), 15% GST applied to (value + shipping + duty), and clearance fees of NZ$50-100 plus perhaps MPI levies.
- A lot of online sellers already collect GST at the point of sale for lower-value items.
To do that, employ the Customs “What’s My Duty?” estimator for accurate calculations. Generally, recipients pay fees upon delivery unless they are prepaid.
Biosecurity Screening Process
MPI uses X-rays, detector dogs and inspections to find risks. High-risk parcels may be opened. Compliant items continue; others need treatment, permits or return—at owner’s expense.
FAQs
What if my package contains an item that is restricted?
It can be held for examination, treated or confiscated. Declare everything to avoid fines.
How long does it take customs to clear?
Three to 10 days, usually, but correct declarations speed it up.
Am I able to send parcle to New Zealand with foodstuff?
Fresh food is generally not permitted; however, some commercially packaged dried food may be taxible if declared and inspected.
Can you track all shipments?
Yes for courier; postal options differ (pick tracked if you want guarantee).
Who pays duties and taxes?
The recipient is usually the receiver, unless the originator chooses a Duties Paid service.
Is there a way for me to find out if my item is permissible?
Visit mpi. govt. nz or customs. govt. nz site for official tools and lists.
Conclusion: Prepare for Smooth Delivery
Forward planning is essential when you’re looking to send parcel to New Zealand.
Read restrictions well, however they don’t always apply to mail, declare accurately and use reputable tracked services.
This way, your purchase reaches you in safety and good time as well as fulfilling any of N.Z’s essential protections. For the most current requirements, always check official MPI and Customs sites.
