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Shipping Goods to New Zealand from the USA

New Zealand Import Regulations: A Complete Guide for U.S. Shippers

New Zealand is a welcoming and well-regulated destination for U.S. exports and personal shipments. However, strict biosecurity controls and detailed customs procedures require shippers to follow precise rules when shipping from the USA to avoid delays or additional charges.

Whether you're a business or an individual, this guide explains how to navigate New Zealand's import requirements, how to reduce your international shipping costs, and how a qualified international shipping company can help ensure smooth, affordable shipping to New Zealand.

Key Facts About Importing to New Zealand

New Zealand Customs Service oversees all imports.

Many goods are duty-free, but GST (15%) applies to most imports.
Biosecurity controls are enforced by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI).
Import declarations must be submitted before arrival.
Wooden packaging materials must comply with ISPM 15 regulations.
Personal effects may qualify for duty- and GST-free clearance if you’re relocating.

Using an experienced international shipping company ensures your shipment complies with New Zealand’s strict regulations and minimizes unexpected costs.

Step-by-Step: How to Import to New Zealand

1. Choose a Customs Broker or Import Agent

Every shipment must be cleared through New Zealand Customs.

Businesses should use a registered customs broker.
Individuals can work directly with a broker or coordinate through a full-service international shipping company with partners in New Zealand.

2. Prepare Required Documentation

New Zealand import authorities require:

Commercial invoice (must detail value, HS code, and item description)
Packing list
Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
Import declaration (lodged electronically via TSW system)
MPI declaration (for biosecurity clearance if applicable)

For personal shipments:

Inventory list
Passport
Proof of residence change (e.g., visa, rental agreement)

3. Understand Duties, GST, and Fees

New Zealand applies:

Customs duty: 0%–10% depending on item type (many goods are duty-free)
GST (15%): Charged on the total value (CIF + duty + insurance)
Import Entry Transaction Fee and Biosecurity System Entry Levy

Some goods (alcohol, tobacco, luxury items) may attract excise duties.

Your international shipping company can help calculate the full international shipping cost, including duties, taxes, and delivery charges.

4. Meet Biosecurity and Packaging Regulations

New Zealand has some of the strictest biosecurity rules in the world. Items that pose a biosecurity risk (such as wood, soil, food, plants, and animal products) are inspected or restricted.

ISPM 15 compliance is mandatory for all wooden crates, pallets, and dunnage.
Untreated wooden packaging may be rejected or destroyed.
Food, plant-based products, seeds, and natural fibers must be declared and may need inspection or permits.

BMSB Seasonal Fumigation (if applicable)

During Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) season (September to April), vehicles and some machinery shipped from the U.S. may require mandatory fumigation or heat treatment before loading.

Shipping Personal Effects to New Zealand

Relocating to New Zealand? You may qualify for duty- and GST-free import of used household goods under the personal effects concession.

To Qualify:

You’re moving to New Zealand permanently or for at least 21 months
Items have been used for 12+ months prior to shipment
Goods arrive within 12 months of your arrival

Required Documents:

NZ Customs Form NZCS 218 (Unaccompanied Personal Effects form)
Inventory list
Proof of residency (visa, lease, job offer)
Passport and entry documents

Note: Items such as cars, alcohol, and new electronics may still be subject to duties or taxes.

Labeling & Compliance for Retail Goods

All imported goods for commercial sale must meet local standards. Labeling must be:

In English
Clearly displaying product description, origin, manufacturer/importer info, and safety warnings (if applicable)
Accurate in measurement and content

Food, cosmetics, electronics, and children’s products may require Ministry of Health or Standards New Zealand approvals.

Failing to comply with labeling laws can result in delayed customs clearance or fines. A qualified international shipping company can help pre-verify your labels.

Who Can Help?

Use a Licensed New Zealand Customs Broker or Freight Partner

A licensed broker or freight handler will:

File import declarations via Trade Single Window (TSW)
Coordinate MPI inspections
Pay duties and GST
Schedule delivery from the port or CFS

The easiest way to manage compliance and control your international shipping cost is to work with a trusted international shipping company that manages everything from U.S. pickup to New Zealand clearance.

Final Import Checklist for New Zealand

✅ Requirement	Applies to	Action
Import declaration (TSW)	All shipments	File electronically before arrival
Customs duties	Based on the HS code	Often 0%, some categories up to 10%
GST (15%)	All goods	Charged on CIF + duty value
Excise duty	Alcohol, tobacco	Additional rates apply
MPI biosecurity clearance	Items with wood, food, and fibers	Must declare, may require inspection
ISPM 15 compliance	Wood packaging	Mandatory; must be heat-treated or fumigated
BMSB fumigation	Vehicles, machinery (seasonal)	May require fumigation, Sept–April
Transfer of residence relief	Personal effects	Submit NZCS 218 and proof of relocation

Conclusion: Shipping to New Zealand from the U.S.

Importing into New Zealand is straightforward, but biosecurity rules and GST calculations require close attention. For both businesses and individuals, accurate paperwork, proper packaging, and thorough planning are essential.

To ensure compliance, manage taxes, and enjoy affordable shipping, team up with an experienced international shipping company that understands New Zealand’s regulations from start to finish.