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If you are importing commercial goods through Auckland, arranging Customs clearance before the cargo arrives can save time, reduce unnecessary delays and help avoid additional storage or port costs.

A customs broker can prepare and lodge the required import entry, review shipment documentation and help identify Customs or other border requirements that may apply to your goods.

Do I need a customs broker in Auckland?

Not every import situation is the same. However, businesses importing commercial cargo often use a customs broker to manage the clearance process and deal with the technical information required for an import entry.

This can be particularly useful for first-time importers, regular commercial shipments and goods subject to additional border requirements.

What does a customs broker do?

A customs broker may assist with:

• Reviewing commercial invoices and shipping documents
• Determining tariff classifications
• Preparing and lodging import entries
• Calculating applicable Customs duty and GST
• Identifying documentation that may be missing
• Communicating with Customs regarding clearance matters
• Coordinating applicable MPI and biosecurity requirements
• Helping importers prepare before cargo arrives

The exact requirements depend on the goods and circumstances of the shipment.

What documents should I send my broker?

For a typical commercial shipment, your broker may need documents such as:

• Commercial invoice
• Packing list
• Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
• Freight and insurance information where applicable
• Detailed description of the goods
• Country of origin
• Permits, certificates or other supporting documents where required

Sending these documents early allows potential problems to be identified before the cargo arrives.

Auckland sea freight clearance

Auckland is a major gateway for containerised and other sea freight entering New Zealand.

Importers should avoid waiting until the vessel has arrived before beginning the clearance process. If documentation is incomplete or additional information is required, delays can result in storage and other charges.

Where documents are available, clearance preparation can often begin before arrival.

Auckland air freight clearance

Commercial goods arriving by air may also require formal Customs clearance depending on the shipment and applicable requirements.

Because air freight moves quickly, having accurate invoices, product descriptions and other documents ready before arrival can be particularly important.

What if MPI clearance is also required?

Some imported goods are subject to requirements administered by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI).

Food, plant products, timber, animal products and other biosecurity risk goods may require certificates, permits, inspections, treatments or other documentation.

Customs clearance and MPI clearance are separate processes, and some shipments require both before they can be released.

Customs clearance outside Auckland

You do not necessarily need to choose a customs broker simply because their office is physically beside the port.

Modern Customs entries are lodged electronically, allowing Cusmode to assist importers with commercial shipments arriving through Auckland and other New Zealand ports and airports.

Looking for help with an Auckland import?

If you have commercial goods arriving in Auckland, getting the documentation reviewed before arrival can make the clearance process considerably easier.

Cusmode Customs assists businesses with New Zealand Customs clearance and the coordination of applicable border requirements. Whether this is your first shipment or part of your regular importing activity, you are welcome to contact us before the goods depart or arrive in New Zealand.