Removals and Shipping
Shipping your world across the ocean can be stressful but we’re here to make the transition as smooth as possible by offering you valuable advice.
We’ve given you a bit of information to get started but get in contact through our dedicated 24/7 helpline so our team of property experts can help you with your specific situation.
cull what you don’t need
You’re not going to need the kitchen sink when you arrive in Australia so give away, sell or donate any items that are replaceable. It’s also a good idea to weigh up the cost of shipping the item versus how much you’ll spend replacing it when you’re here.
In particular, large and bulky items can be very expensive to ship and for the most part you’re better off purchasing appliances and white goods here because they’ll be built to Australian standards and conditions.
Plus, you can save yourself a little money by buying secondhand.
find a reputable company
It’s a great idea to find yourself a reputable removalist so you know that the items you decide to bring with you are in safe hands.
Most importantly, do a bit of research, get a few quotes and ask lots of questions.
make sure you’re not importing restricted or prohibited items
Australia has very strict quarantine and importing laws because we’ve got so many unique plants and animals that you can’t find anywhere else.
These items may require approval to bring into the country:
- Antibiotics, medicines and therapeutic drugs
- Novelty erasers that resemble food (scent and/or appearance)
- Some types of cosmetics
- Endangered animal fur, skins, tusks, ivory and so on (with CITES certificate)
- Firearms, ammunition and accessories
- Knives and daggers (including for sport)
- Martial art swords or weapons
- Bamboo, wicker or cane items
These items are completely prohibited for you to bring into Australia:
- Seeds, plants and dried floral arrangements
- Original pine cones or any plant matter used for Christmas decorations or wreaths.
- Raw untreated wood or bark
- Fruit, vegetables and meats
- Endangered animal fur, skins, tusks, ivory and so on (without CITES certificate)
It’s more than likely that any antiques that are worth more than AUD $1,000 will need an import declaration. Antiques older than 100 years may be imported free of duty if you’ve got a Certificate of Antiquity that’s issued by a recognised association or authority.
For a complete list or if you’re not sure if you can bring an item it’s best to check with the Department of Immigration & Border Protection but your removalists should also be able to give you more information, as well as our experts who are on our dedicated 24/7 helpline.
check you’ve got the right documentation
You’ll need this documentation for when you arrive Down Under:
- Fully completed Australian Customs form B534
- Removal inventory
- Valuation form for Shipment Protection cover
- Copy of your Passport and Visa
- Purchase receipts (only applicable if you are importing any newly purchased goods)
- Import approval (if you’re importing a car)
thinking australia? talk to us!
Through our dedicated 24/7 helpline, our property experts are available to answer any questions you might have about relocating your life Down Under.