Shipping to New Zealand from the USA
Moving to New Zealand from the USA? Household goods usually go by sea container to Auckland, Tauranga, Christchurch (Lyttelton) or Wellington. Compare up to 5 free quotes from experienced international movers.
- Region
- Australia / Oceania
- Main sea ports
- Auckland, Tauranga, Lyttelton (Christchurch), Wellington
- Main airports
- Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington
- Sea transit
- Typically about 5 to 8 weeks port to port
- Shipments
- Household goods, cars, boxes and barrels, commercial freight
Compare quotes for New Zealand
Container shipping to New Zealand
Most household moves to New Zealand go by sea container. You can book a container just for your goods (FCL) or share one with other customers (LCL).
| Option | Space (approx.) | Usually fits |
|---|---|---|
| Shared container (LCL) | Pay per cubic metre or foot | A few rooms, up to about 15 m³ (530 ft³) |
| 20ft container (FCL) | About 33 m³ (1,170 ft³) | 1 to 2 bedroom home |
| 40ft container (FCL) | About 67 m³ (2,390 ft³) | 3 to 4 bedroom home, or household goods plus a car |
Not sure how much you have? Use our moving size calculator.
Air cargo to New Zealand
Air cargo (air freight) is the fastest way to ship to New Zealand. It is ideal for clothes, documents, electronics and things you need as soon as you arrive. Prices are based on the "chargeable weight": the actual weight or the volume weight, whichever is higher, so air cargo is best for smaller, lighter shipments.
Air shipments to New Zealand usually arrive at Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington.
Car shipping to New Zealand
Vehicles imported to New Zealand must pass biosecurity cleaning, entry certification and meet local standards before they can be registered. Check the costs with your shipping company before you decide to ship your car.
- RoRo: the car is driven onto the ship. Often the cheapest option, but you can't pack belongings in the car.
- Container: more protection, and you can combine the car with household goods.
- To export a car from the USA you need the original title, and the documents must be given to U.S. Customs before the car is loaded.
Shipping boxes and barrels to New Zealand
Only sending a few things? Shipping boxes, barrels or excess baggage to New Zealand is much cheaper than a full move. Many companies collect from your home and deliver door to door.
Commercial freight to New Zealand
Shipping goods for your business? Compare quotes for FCL and LCL freight, pallets and air freight to New Zealand, including customs clearance.
How much does shipping to New Zealand cost?
Every shipment is different, so prices vary a lot between companies. Your price depends on:
- The volume or weight of your goods
- Shared container, full container or air cargo
- Your pickup location in the USA and the destination city in New Zealand
- Packing, insurance, storage and door delivery
- Destination charges such as port fees and customs clearance
- Season and current freight rates
Ask each company what is included, especially destination charges. Compare up to 5 free quotes to find the best price.
How long does shipping to New Zealand take?
Sea freight from the USA to New Zealand typically takes about 5 to 8 weeks port to port. Door-to-door delivery takes longer because of collection, customs clearance and final delivery. Air cargo usually arrives within a few days to two weeks.
Customs and documents for New Zealand
- New Zealand's Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) inspects all household goods for biosecurity risks.
- Clean outdoor items, sports equipment, shoes and tents thoroughly, and declare food, plant and animal products.
- Used personal belongings may enter duty-free if you are moving to New Zealand to live; ask your mover for the paperwork.
Rules change, so always confirm with your shipping company. See also our guide to prohibited items and how to pack.
Shipping companies to New Zealand
We are adding verified shipping companies for New Zealand. Send one request and up to 5 companies that serve your route will contact you with quotes.
Frequently asked questions about shipping to New Zealand
How much does it cost to ship to New Zealand from the USA?
The cost depends on how much you ship (volume or weight), the method (shared container, full container or air cargo), your pickup location in the USA, the destination city in New Zealand, and extra services like packing, insurance and door delivery. Compare written quotes to know your real price: Movers World gets you up to 5 free quotes with one request.
How long does shipping to New Zealand take?
Sea freight from the USA to New Zealand typically takes about 5 to 8 weeks port to port. Door-to-door delivery takes longer because of collection, customs clearance and final delivery. Air cargo usually arrives within a few days to two weeks.
Can I ship a car to New Zealand?
Vehicles imported to New Zealand must pass biosecurity cleaning, entry certification and meet local standards before they can be registered. Check the costs with your shipping company before you decide to ship your car.
What documents do I need to ship to New Zealand?
Usually your passport, a detailed packing list and proof of your move such as a visa or residence permit. For a car you also need the title and bill of sale. Your shipping company will confirm the exact list for New Zealand.
Is air cargo or sea freight better for shipping to New Zealand?
Sea freight is much cheaper for furniture and large shipments, but slower. Air cargo is faster and best for small, urgent or valuable items. Many people combine both: a small air shipment for essentials and the rest by sea.