Frequently Asked Questions

How much notice do you need to pack up my things?

We know you could have been thinking about moving to Australia for months, so the answer to this question is that we need to be booked in as early as possible. 2 weeks notice would be considered a tight timeline. If you plan your move from when you want to take delivery in Australia back to when you first ask us for a quote, you can set up a timeline.

Here’s how that can work if you are planning for a sole use container relocation from Auckland to either Brisbane, Sydney, or Melbourne;

• From delivery in Australia back to pack out day in NZ is 6 weeks. (transit guidelines)
• You then need to give Ausmove two weeks’ notice, which makes 8 weeks
• You should allow another 4 weeks to get your quotation organized

Using the above example, the timeline from your first contact with Ausmove to taking delivery in Australia is approx. 12 weeks.

Of course, this is a rough guideline only, as everything depends on your personal circumstances, shipping timetables and other uncontrollables, like port delays and the workloads of border control officials.

Can Ausmove provide safe storage on both sides of the Tasman?

Ausmove routinely provides safe and secure storage in licensed transitional facilities on both sides of the Tasman.

A popular option is for us to internationally pack and store your effects in Auckland, until you’re ready for us to ship them. It could be that you want to take a holiday before looking for permanent accommodation, still looking for a job and uncertain of where you’ll end up or just not 100% sure of your final plans. This way there’s no pressure or stress while you do your own thing for a while.

Importantly you can just pay for the domestic portion of your move and the balance when you call for your goods.

Can I pack my own household goods?

While some companies encourage customers to pack their own shipments, this is not something Ausmove agrees with. There are only 2 reasons for a moving company to provide a Pack by Owner quote. The 1st is to give the appearance of a cheaper service and the 2nd being a lack of confidence in their packing skills.

For customers this is not a money-saving idea. That’s because getting the quote only gets you to the start line, there’s still a race to be run. For starters insurance companies and Australian border officials do not like pack by owner shipments. There is a strong possibility of insurance issues, additional costs at the border and significant clearance delays. Most of our competitors have pack teams that don’t specialise in international moving. Here at Ausmove our crews are not only packing and stowing professionals, they are also experts at getting their inventories and documentation right.

Every mistake in either packing, stowing, process, inventory preparation or paperwork becomes an additional cost to the customer when their shipment arrives in Australia.

Can I take my outdoor items to Australia?

Yes, there’s no problem with taking outdoor items to Australia. To avoid additional border costs and delays all your outdoor items must be thoroughly cleaned. This includes anything that has been in contact with the outdoors. Mud and dirt on bikes, garden tools, golf clubs, garden furniture, sports equipment, outdoor shoes, and children’s play equipment, amongst others.

We recommend you wash everything with soapy water and then disinfectant. If you are taking a toolbox, the same applies to each item. Lawn mowers and anything with fuel must be cleaned and also drained of fuel. Your vacuum cleaner should be thoroughly cleaned and the bag disposed of, prior to shipping.

What items shouldn’t I take to Australia?

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) is responsible for protecting Australia from unwanted pests and diseases. The importation of some products is subject to specific conditions, while some products and items are not permitted entry into Australia.

Ausmove recommends you do everything possible to follow the regulations and be aware of anything that may be denied entry or incur additional costs; for example, fresh fruit and vegetables, live plants, cane and wicker furniture, soiled goods untreated wood items and many others. Our staff are experts in their field so please ask them for advice and ensure you do your homework and get across the regulations.

This website is recommended reading on the regulations and process for importing goods: Importing goods - DAFF (agriculture.gov.au) 

Is every shipment subject to quarantine inspection?

Yes, an Australian Quarantine Service (AQIS) inspection is mandatory for all household goods and motor vehicle import shipments into Australia.

Inspections are conducted in quarantine approved facilities, generally owned, and operated by our Australian service partners. They will make all the arrangements and facilitate the process. If the shipper has followed recommended guidelines, got the correct paperwork, and followed procedures this is a straightforward process. However, additional costs will be charged if further treatment is required or there are prohibited items in the shipment. This could include steam cleaning, fumigation, heat treatment or the seizure and destruction of prohibited items.