Import

Importing a car to Australia can feel like navigating a maze of forms, approvals, and acronyms. Between the Road Vehicle Standards Act, Australian Design Rules, and customs clearance, there’s little room for mistakes. That’s why Vehicle Shipping Australia exists: to make the entire process simple, legal, and stress-free.

From classic JDM icons to left-hand-drive muscle cars, we help individuals, dealerships, and collectors import cars to Australia safely, cost-effectively, and without the red tape headaches.

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Why Import a Car to Australia?

For many, it’s about driving something you just can’t find in the local market. For others, it’s relocating a trusted vehicle when moving countries. Whatever your reason, car import Australia opens the door to new models, rare finds, and investment opportunities.

Benefits of importing a vehicle:

  • Choice: JDM, luxury, vintage, and hybrid models not sold locally
  • Savings: In many cases, importing is cheaper than buying from a domestic dealer
  • Sentimental value: Bring your own car if you’re moving permanently or temporarily

  • Performance & style: Access left-hand drive performance cars, people movers, and specialist categories

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Our Car Import Services

Every car has a story. Our role is to ensure yours reaches Australia legally and ready for the road. We handle vehicle import approvals, customs, compliance, and transport across all categories.

Import from USA to Australia

Muscle cars, pickup trucks, luxury SUVs—America has plenty Australians want. We handle left-hand drive to right-hand drive conversions, compliance with ADR, and approvals under the Customs Tariff Act.

Import from Japan to Australia

From turbocharged Skylines to affordable hybrids, Japan is the heartland of JDM imports. We assist with auction sourcing, compliance checks, and all customs control steps to bring these cars legally into the Australian market.

Import from UK to Australia

Luxury sedans, performance hatchbacks, and vintage models—our team has deep experience in moving UK vehicles to Australia. We manage import declarations, freight booking, and all quarantine requirements.

Step-by-Step Car Import Process

We believe transparency is key. Here’s how car import to Australia works, simplified into four stages:

1. Booking & Import Approval

  • Confirm your vehicle is an approved vehicle under Australian law
  • Secure import approval via the ROVER portal (Department of Infrastructure)
  • Select the shipping method (RORO, container, air)

2. Shipping Methods

  • RORO (Roll-on Roll-off): Best for drivable cars and bulk shipments
  • Container: Ideal for classics, non-runners, or high-value vehicles

  • Air Freight: Premium option for urgent or prestige models

3. Customs & Compliance

  • Prepare import declarations with the Australian Border Force
  • Pay duties, GST, and Luxury Car Tax (if applicable)
  • Quarantine inspection (biosecurity, asbestos, cleanliness)
  • Compliance modifications to meet Australian Design Rules

4. Delivery & Registration

  • Collect from port or arrange local transport
  • Complete state/territory registration requirements

  • Provide insurance options and handover a road-ready car

Learn more about the compliance process

Car Import Regulations & Compliance

Australia has some of the toughest rules on the planet. Every road vehicle must meet strict Australian Design Rules (ADR) before being released by customs. Non-compliance can mean heavy fines and storage costs.

Documents you’ll need:

  • Import approval certificate
  • Proof of ownership / overseas registration
  • Invoice or purchase receipt
  • Passport (for personal imports / temporary residents)
  • Freight & shipping documents
  • Quarantine clearance and asbestos-free certificate

Costs incurred:

  • Shipping: $2,000–$5,000+
  • Import approval: $50–$100
  • Customs duty: 5% of customs value
  • GST: 10% (vehicle + shipping + duty)
  • Luxury Car Tax: 33% above threshold
  • Compliance modifications: $1,500–$4,000+
  • State registration: $500–$2,000

Import pathways:

  • Personal Import Scheme – for returning residents, one vehicle per person
  • SEVS Scheme – for specialist and enthusiast vehicles
  • 25-Year Rule – for cars originally manufactured more than 25 years ago
  • Race/Rally Scheme – for motorsport vehicles (proof required)
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Why Choose Vehicle Shipping Australia?

Importing a car isn’t just paperwork—it’s about trust. With decades of experience in vehicle import, our team understands every regulation, every form, and every pitfall.

We offer:

  • End-to-end handling from booking to delivery
  • Transparent pricing—no hidden costs
  • Compliance expertise with ADR and motor vehicle standards
  • Support for both individuals and dealerships

  • Australia-wide delivery and registration help

Learn more about us

FAQs – Car Import Australia

How long does importing a car take?

Generally 6–10 weeks, depending on origin, freight method, and compliance.

Can I import left-hand drive vehicles?

Yes, but conversions may be required under ADR. Exemptions apply for vintage and collector models.

What taxes do I pay?

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What if my car doesn’t meet Australian Design Rules?

It won’t be released. You’ll face storage costs until compliance modifications are complete.

Get Your Car Import Quote Today

Vehicle Shipping Australia makes car import to Australia easier, faster, and more reliable. Whether it’s your dream JDM coupe, a vintage Mustang, or a high-spec hybrid, we’ll handle the process from start to finish.

Start Your Car Import Process Now