Car Shipping to New Zealand

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  • AUCKLAND
  • LYTTELTON

Shipping Your Vehicle to Lyttelton, New Zealand with Ship Cars Ltd

Ship Cars Ltd specialises in providing efficient and secure vehicle shipping services to Lyttelton, New Zealand. We understand that shipping a vehicle overseas involves careful planning and adherence to specific regulations. This guide aims to equip you with all the necessary information for a smooth and successful shipment.

Our Shipping Services to Lyttelton

We offer a range of shipping methods to accommodate your needs and budget:

• Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO): This is a cost-effective method where your vehicle is driven onto a specialised vessel. It’s ideal for operational cars, 4x4s, and larger vehicles.

  • Important Note: RORO vessels have strict rules against carrying personal goods or any additional items within the vehicle. Hybrid and electric vehicles are not permitted on RORO services.

  • Transit Time: Approximately 50 days.

  • Sailing Frequency: Four times a month.

• Shared Container Shipping: This option provides more security than RORO, as your vehicle is loaded into a shared shipping container with other vehicles. This is a good balance between cost and security.

  • Vehicle Condition: Your vehicle does not need to be in a working condition.

  • Loading Goods: You can load personal effects or goods within the container alongside your vehicle, provided they are declared and do not violate New Zealand’s import regulations.

  • Hybrid & Electric Vehicles: These are allowed in containers. Electric vehicles may incur a hazard surcharge, typically around £295.

  • Transit Time: Approximately 50 days.

  • Sailing Frequency: Four times a month.

• Dedicated Container Shipping: For maximum security and privacy, you can hire an entire container for your vehicle(s). This is ideal for high-value vehicles, multiple cars, or when you need to transport a significant amount of personal effects.

  • Vehicle Condition: Your vehicle does not need to be in a working condition.

  • Loading Goods: You can load personal effects or goods within the container.

  • Hybrid & Electric Vehicles: These are allowed in containers. Electric vehicles may incur a hazard surcharge, typically around £295.

  • Transit Time: Approximately 50 days.

  • Sailing Frequency: Four times a month.

Preparing Your Car for Shipment

Why Ship Your Vehicle to Lyttelton?

Lyttelton is the primary port for Christchurch and the wider Canterbury region of New Zealand. Shipping your vehicle to Lyttelton offers several advantages:

• Access to the South Island: Lyttelton provides direct access to the South Island of New Zealand, making it a strategic entry point for residents and businesses.

• Personal Relocation: Many individuals and families immigrate to New Zealand and choose to ship their personal vehicles for ease of transportation and familiarity.

• Hobby and Classic Cars: New Zealand has a vibrant car culture, and enthusiasts often import unique or classic vehicles for personal enjoyment and restoration projects.

Destination Rules, Inspections, and Permits for New Zealand

New Zealand has stringent biosecurity and customs regulations to protect its unique environment. Adhering to these is crucial.

Rules for Permanent Export, Transfer of Residence, and Temporary Import:

• Permanent Export (from UK perspective): When exporting a vehicle permanently from the UK, you will need to comply with UK export regulations, which typically involves informing HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

• Transfer of Residence (To New Zealand): New Zealand offers concessions for individuals moving to the country permanently. If you meet specific criteria (e.g., ownership and usage of the vehicle overseas for at least 12 months prior to import, and you are relocating permanently), you may be eligible for a concessionary rate of duty and GST (Goods and Services Tax). This is often referred to as the “Transfer of Residence” or “New Settler” concession.

• Temporary Import: Temporary importation is generally for specific purposes like tourism or participation in events, with strict conditions for re-exportation. It is not typically suitable for individuals relocating permanently.

Inspection and Permit Requirements:

All imported vehicles into New Zealand must undergo inspections to ensure compliance with safety and biosecurity standards.

• Biosecurity Inspection: This is a critical step. The vehicle must be thoroughly cleaned, inside and out, to remove any soil, mud, plant material, or other contaminants. Failure to meet biosecurity standards can result in significant cleaning costs or even the rejection of the vehicle.

  • Where to Get Information: The New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is the authority responsible for biosecurity. Their website provides detailed guidelines on vehicle cleaning requirements.

• Vehicle Compliance Inspection: Once the biosecurity requirements are met and the vehicle is cleared by customs, it must pass a New Zealand Land Transport Authority (Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency) compliance inspection. This ensures the vehicle meets New Zealand’s safety and emissions standards. You will need to book this inspection at an approved testing facility.

  • Where to Get Information: Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency is the relevant authority for vehicle standards. Their website offers comprehensive information on compliance requirements, including fuel (petrol/diesel) and emissions standards, as well as safety features.

Official Authority Links:

• New Zealand Customs Service: For import declarations, duties, and taxes.

  • Website: https://www.customs.govt.nz/

• Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI): For biosecurity and fumigation requirements.

  • Website: https://www.mpi.govt.nz/

• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency: For vehicle compliance and roadworthiness standards.

  • Website: https://www.nzta.govt.nz/

Paperwork Required

Ensuring you have all the correct documentation is paramount for a smooth import process.

UK Paperwork:

1. V5C Registration Document: Original document proving UK registration and ownership.

2. Proof of Identity: Valid passport.

3. Bill of Lading / Sea Waybill: Provided by Ship Cars Ltd, this is the contract of carriage.

4. Export Declaration: May be required by HMRC depending on circumstances.

5. Proof of Ownership: Invoice or bill of sale if the vehicle was recently purchased.

6. Vehicle Condition Report: Essential if you opt for comprehensive insurance. Free if we collect your vehicle; £35 if you deliver to us.

New Zealand Port Paperwork:

1. Import Declaration: Usually handled by a New Zealand Customs Broker.

2. Bill of Lading / Sea Waybill: Original document.

3. Proof of Ownership: V5C and purchase invoice.

4. Transfer of Residence Documentation: If claiming the concessionary rate of duty and GST. This includes evidence of prior ownership and usage overseas, as well as proof of your intention to reside permanently in New Zealand.

5. MPI Clearance Certificate: Confirmation that biosecurity requirements have been met.

6. Waka Kotahi Compliance Certificate: Confirmation that the vehicle meets New Zealand safety and emissions standards.

7. Proof of Identity: Passport.

Duty and Tax in New Zealand

New Zealand levies Goods and Services Tax (GST) and potentially Customs Duty on imported vehicles.

• GST (Goods and Services Tax): Currently 15% is charged on the value of the vehicle, shipping costs, insurance, and any applicable duties.

• Customs Duty: For most cars, the duty rate is 0% if imported under the Transfer of Residence concession. However, for standard imports or specific vehicle types, duty rates can apply.

• Biosecurity Fees: Fees for cleaning and fumigation if required by MPI.

• Compliance Fees: Costs associated with the Waka Kotahi inspection.

Transfer of Residence Concession: If you qualify, you may be exempt from paying GST and Customs Duty on one vehicle that you have owned and used overseas for at least 12 months before your arrival in New Zealand, provided you are moving permanently.

Collection and Delivery in the UK

Ship Cars Ltd provides convenient collection services across the UK:

• Transporter Collection: Your vehicle will be collected by a professional transporter and delivered to the port without adding any mileage.

• Trade Plate Driver: If your vehicle is fully operational and possesses a valid MOT, we can arrange for it to be driven to the port by one of our experienced drivers.

What’s Not Allowed or Restricted?

 

• Biosecurity: Any trace of soil, mud, plant matter, or animal residue on the vehicle is strictly prohibited and will lead to cleaning costs or rejection. Thorough cleaning is mandatory.

• Personal Goods: Personal goods are not allowed in vehicles shipped via RORO. They are allowed in containers, but must be declared and comply with New Zealand import regulations. Items like firearms, illicit substances, or restricted goods are strictly forbidden.

• Fuel: Vehicles should ideally have a very low fuel level (less than a quarter tank) for safety reasons.

• Vehicle Age: While not a complete prohibition, older vehicles may have more stringent compliance requirements and may not be eligible for certain insurance coverages.

Insurance and Risk Coverage

We offer tailored insurance to protect your vehicle during transit:

• Total Loss Coverage (Fire/Water Damage): This cover costs 1% of the vehicle’s value plus the shipping cost.

• Comprehensive Cover: This cover costs 1.5% of the vehicle’s value plus the shipping cost and extends to cover cosmetic damage.

  • Eligibility: This cover is only available for vehicles 10 years old or newer.

  • Condition Report: A condition report is mandatory for comprehensive cover. This report is provided free of charge if we collect your vehicle. If you deliver your vehicle to us, a £35 fee applies for the report.

Cost Breakdown

The overall cost of shipping your vehicle to Lyttelton is determined by several factors:

• Shipping Method: RORO is typically the most economical, followed by shared container, and then dedicated container.

• Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger and heavier vehicles incur higher costs.

• UK Collection: Fees for transporter or trade plate driver services.

• Port Charges: Terminal handling fees at the UK port and Lyttelton.

• Insurance Premium: Based on the declared value of the vehicle and the chosen coverage level.

• Documentation Fees: Costs associated with preparing and processing shipping documents.

• New Zealand Customs Clearance: Fees paid to a New Zealand Customs Broker.

• Biosecurity Fees: Costs for cleaning or fumigation if required by MPI.

• Compliance Inspection Fees: Waka Kotahi inspection costs.

Pricing Examples:

• Small Golf-sized Car: £1340 (Shared Container)

• Large Car (e.g., Range Rover): £1740 (Dedicated Container)

Note: These prices are indicative. For an accurate quote tailored to your specific vehicle and requirements, please contact us directly.

Ship Cars Ltd is dedicated to providing a seamless and secure car shipping experience to Lyttelton. Reach out to us today for contact us a personalised quote and expert advice.

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