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Importing goods into New Zealand involves several crucial steps to ensure compliance with NZ Customs regulations. The import clearance process has to be treated with utmost attention in order to ensure that all cargo meets the necessary requirements before entering the country, but we can help you with the details.
Import customs clearance process
Customs clearance is a term used to describe the procedures and documentation required to facilitate the lawful entry of imported goods into a country. This process ensures that all imports comply with the regulations and standards set by the country’s customs authorities. It involves verifying the shipment’s contents, value, and origin, and includes the following steps.
Documentation review
Submission and examination of essential documents such as the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading and any necessary certificates or declarations.
Inspection
Physical examination of the goods by Customs officers or other Govt appointed officials such as MPI (Ministry of Primary Industry) to ensure compliance with the import regulations.
Duty and tax assessment
This step involves the calculation and payment of import duties, taxes and any other applicable fees or levies.
Approval and release
Once all documentation is verified and duties are paid, customs will approve and release the goods for entry into the country.
Vital documents required for import clearance
When you want to import into NZ, documentation is an important part of the process. Depending on the mode of transport, different documents are required for NZ import clearance:
Airfreight
- Commercial invoice
- Packing slip (optional)
- Airwaybill
Seafreight (LCL)
- Commercial invoice
- Packing slip (optional)
- Bill of Lading
Seafreight (FCL)
- Commercial invoice
- Packing slip (optional)
- Bill of Lading
- Quarantine Declaration / Packing Declaration
While a Certificate of Origin is not compulsory, NZ Customs reserves the right to request one or challenge the claimed country of origin. The onus is on the importer to prove the country of manufacture if queried.
What to expect after import clearance
After import customs clearance is completed, the following typically occurs.
Goods release
The goods are released from customs control and can be collected by the importer or their designated agent
Transportation
Arrangements are made for the transportation of the goods from the port or airport to the final destination, whether it be a warehouse, retail outlet or end consumer
Storage and inventory management
If the goods are not immediately needed, they may be stored in a warehouse where inventory management systems track their status and distribution
Distribution
The goods are distributed according to the importer’s supply chain requirements, which may include delivery to various locations or clients.
How long does customs clearance take?
Generally, customs clearance can take anywhere from a few hours to several days. In some cases, especially with complex shipments or those needing additional inspections, it may take longer. Importers are advised to initiate clearance procedures as early as possible in order to avoid any delays, and it’s also worth noting that the duration of customs clearance can vary depending on several key factors:
Accuracy of documentation
If all necessary documents are correctly prepared and submitted, the process can be expedited
Volume of goods
Larger shipments or those requiring special handling may take longer to clear
Types of goods
Certain goods (such as hazardous materials for example) may require more thorough inspections and therefore longer processing times
Best practices
We recommend initiating the clearance process at least 10 days before the ship’s arrival to reduce or negate any additional costs such as demurrage, detention or storage fees.
For imports, there are only three free days before daily demurrage costs are incurred.
LCL cargoes have 5-7 days before storage charges commence, while airfreight moves faster, with daily storage starting 24 hours after cargo availability.
Stellar International’s import clearance capabilities
Stellar international excels in providing a wide range of import clearance services, ensuring that all shipments are pre-cleared efficiently.
Our services include:
- Pre-clearance of all import shipments, except personal effects
- Temporary import (TIE) / Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) applications
- Deferred payment account for delaying duty and GST payments
- MPI Quarantine formalities through our ATF MPI approved container yard
- Duty Drawback processing and landed cost reporting
- Duty concession applications and royalty calculations
- Duty reimbursement and refund applications
- Local transport and deliveries
- Tariff classification and country of origin evaluation
- Free Trade agreement and preference advice
- CIF/CFR shipment monitoring
- Customs Controlled Authority (CCA) warehouse facilities
- Audit and compliance services
- General advice on import clearance
While a Certificate of Origin is not compulsory, NZ Customs reserves the right to request one or challenge the claimed country of origin. The onus is on the importer to prove the country of manufacture if queried.
Why Choose Stellar International ?
Trust and Reliability
With a legacy of success spanning over 22 years, Stellar International has built a reputation for trust and reliability. Our commitment to completing jobs on time and within budget has earned us many long-term customers who rely on our expertise
Cutting-edge reporting
Stellar International offers cutting-edge logistics reporting, providing real-time shipment tracking and status updates throughout the shipping process. This transparency ensures that you are always informed about your cargo’s status
Industry specialisation
We have extensive experience working with various industries, and understand the unique requirements and nuances of each sector. This expertise allows us to deliver tailored solutions for your import needs
Global coverage
Stellar International proudly serves a diverse range of countries worldwide, guaranteeing that your goods will reach their destination. Our global network ensures that we can handle imports from any part of the world with ease
End-to-end solutions
Stellar International offers fully integrated 3PL warehousing solutions, completing the end-to-end supply chain from shipping, storage, picking to delivery. Our holistic approach ensures that all your logistics needs are met under one roof
Get a quote today
Stellar International’s import clearance services are designed to simplify the process of importing goods into New Zealand. Our comprehensive solutions, backed by over two decades of experience and cutting-edge technology, ensure that your cargo is cleared quickly and efficiently.
For more information about our import clearance services or to discuss your specific requirements, get in touch with Stellar International today. Let us help you navigate the complexities of importing into New Zealand with ease and confidence.
