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NZ customs clearance with instant, transparent pricing
As a professional NZ customs broker, we make importing to New Zealand simple. Get duties, GST and MPI compliance sorted with our Instant Quote system — fast, personalised customs brokerage pricing for every shipment.
Free • No obligation • Takes 6 minutes
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0 Minutes Get accurate customs clearance pricing in just minutes. No waiting. No follow-ups.
0 Steps Our intelligent form adapts in 10 steps to collect only what matters for your shipment.
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Professional NZ Customs Broker 40+ Years Combined Experience 25,500+ Clearances Completed
Why businesses choose Easy Freight
Easy Freight simplifies customs clearance with intelligent forms, experienced brokers and fast turnaround so your goods move smoothly, compliantly and on time.
Built for importers & freight forwarders
Designed around real logistics workflows and shipping practices, not generic template forms.
Expert NZ customs brokers
40 years of combined experience in customs brokerage. Our team handles import clearance, NZ import duties, and tariff classification for shipments of all sizes.
Transparent process
You know what's happening at every stage with no surprises.
What our customers say
“I recently used Easy Freight to import some commercial products and had a fantastic experience. Denis was extremely efficient to deal with and took all the hassle out of the importing process. Everything was handled smoothly and professionally, which made the whole experience stress-free. I look forward to working with him on a regular basis and would happily recommend Easy Freight to others.”
“A big shout out to Ben from Easy Freight. A credit to the firm and really fantastic to deal with. It's easy, when you are in a specialised industry, to forget that some of your customers are one offs or casual. We don't know what is normal or expected and we really don't know or understand the jargon. Ben was always quick to respond to my emails and gave me all the info needed. Recommended!”
“The whole team at Easy Freight keep me up to date with the progress of my import from China. This was the first time I had imported a bulk product from offshore. Thank you so much for making importing a smooth process. Great work”
“This is our fourth time using Easy Freight. Lily and her team truly live up to the name. They guided and helped us import everything from heavy machinery to a remote lawn mower. The whole team was responsive and professional, making the entire shipping process smooth from start to finish. Communication was clear, and there were no surprises along the way. Thank you, Easy Freight team”
“Literally Easy Freight! Denis and the team have made our imports so "easy" and hassle free; prompt communication and very helpful. Highly recommend!”
Instant Quote your faster way to start customs clearance
Instead of waiting for emails or callbacks, Easy Freight's Instant Quote tool lets you get a personalised customs clearance price online based on your specific shipment details.
Get customs clearance quote
Tailored pricing
Quotes are generated using real shipment data directly not averages or generic ranges.
Start when you're ready
Review your personalised quote carefully, approve it, and pay securely online.
Clear cost breakdown
Duties, GST, and service fees are calculated upfront for full pricing transparency.
Smart, adaptive form
The form adapts to your import or export scenario and asks only what's relevant.
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Your customs clearance, step by step
Instead of waiting for emails or callbacks, Easy Freight's Instant Quote tool lets you get a personalised customs clearance price online based on your specific shipment details.
- 1
Submit your shipment details
Fill in the online form with your shipment type, origin, destination, and other key details. Our smart form asks only what's relevant.
- 2
Get your instant quote
Receive a personalised customs clearance quote in minutes, including duties, GST and service fees.
- 3
Review & approve
Check your quote and confirm the details. You can make adjustments before proceeding.
- 4
Pay & let us handle the rest
Securely pay online. Our professional customs brokers take care of documentation, compliance, and clearance from start to finish.
Free
Pay when ready
No obligation
Customs Clearance in New Zealand: What Importers Need to Know
Import Duties and Tariffs in New Zealand
New Zealand applies import duties on goods entering the country, with tariff rates typically ranging from 0% to 10% depending on the product classification under the Harmonized System (HS). All imported goods are also subject to 15% Goods and Services Tax (GST), calculated on the combined value of the goods, freight, insurance, and any applicable duties.
New Zealand has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries including Australia, China, South Korea, the ASEAN nations, and the United Kingdom. Goods originating from FTA partner countries may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates when accompanied by a valid Certificate of Origin. For consignments valued under NZ$1,000, customs duty is generally not collected, though GST still applies to most imports regardless of value.
0% – 10% Import Duty Rates Depends on HS tariff classification of your goods
15% GST Goods & Services Tax Applied to goods value + freight + insurance + duties
NZ$1,000 De Minimis Threshold Customs duty not collected below this value
FTA Savings Free Trade Agreements Reduced or zero duty from AU, CN, KR, ASEAN, UK
Documents Required for NZ Customs Clearance
Successful customs clearance depends on submitting complete and accurate documentation. The essential documents for importing goods into New Zealand include:
- Commercial Invoice — details the transaction value, seller, buyer, and description of goods
- Bill of Lading or Air Waybill — the transport document from the shipping carrier
- Packing List — itemises the contents, weights, and dimensions of each package
- Import Entry Declaration — the formal customs declaration lodged with NZ Customs
- Certificates of Origin — required to claim preferential duty rates under Free Trade Agreements
- Permits and Certificates — phytosanitary certificates, food safety certificates, or MPI import permits as required for regulated goods
Easy Freight's smart quote form guides you through the documentation requirements specific to your shipment, so nothing is missed before lodgement.
MPI Biosecurity Requirements
New Zealand's Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) enforces strict biosecurity controls to protect the country's unique environment and primary industries. Many imported goods, particularly food products, timber, plant materials, and animal-derived items, must meet MPI's Import Health Standards before they can be released from the border.
Shipments flagged by MPI may be subject to physical inspection, fumigation, or treatment at the importer's expense. Failing to declare regulated items or providing incorrect information can result in penalties of up to NZ$100,000, goods being seized or destroyed, and potential prosecution. Working with experienced customs brokers like Easy Freight helps ensure your shipments meet all MPI requirements and avoid costly border delays.
How to Import Goods into New Zealand
Whether you are importing commercial stock or personal effects, NZ customs clearance is a required step for all goods entering New Zealand. A customs broker lodges your import entry with NZ Customs, ensures the correct tariff classification, and calculates the duties and GST owed on your shipment.
For first-time importers, the process can feel complex, but working with an experienced customs brokerage service simplifies every step. Easy Freight's Instant Quote tool lets you see your exact import costs upfront, including custom clearance fees, duty rates, and GST, so there are no surprises when your goods arrive in New Zealand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about customs clearance in New Zealand
How long does customs clearance take in New Zealand?
Standard customs clearance in New Zealand typically takes 1-3 business days once all documents are submitted correctly. With Easy Freight, you can get your instant quote in just 6 minutes, and our professional brokers begin processing immediately after payment. Delays usually occur when documentation is incomplete or when MPI biosecurity inspections are required.
Do I need a customs broker to import goods into New Zealand?
While individuals can self-clear shipments valued under NZ$1,000, a professional customs broker is recommended for commercial imports. Brokers ensure correct tariff classification, calculate duties and GST accurately, and handle compliance with NZ Customs and MPI requirements. Incorrect declarations can result in penalties, delays, or seizure of goods.
How much does customs clearance cost in NZ?
Customs clearance costs depend on the type of goods, shipment value, and complexity. Easy Freight provides transparent, upfront pricing through our Instant Quote tool. Costs typically include the broker service fee, import duties (0-10% depending on the goods), and 15% GST on the total value including freight and insurance.
What goods are prohibited from import into New Zealand?
New Zealand prohibits the import of certain items including objectionable material, unsafe consumer products, and some weapons. MPI also restricts many biological items such as fresh fruit, meat, plants, seeds, and animal products to protect New Zealand's biosecurity. Some items require specific permits or must meet safety standards before they can be imported.
What documents do I need for customs clearance in New Zealand?
Essential documents include a commercial invoice, bill of lading or air waybill, packing list, and import entry declaration. Depending on the goods, you may also need certificates of origin (for Free Trade Agreement preferential rates), phytosanitary certificates, or MPI import permits. Easy Freight's smart form guides you through exactly what's needed for your specific shipment.
Do I have to pay GST on imported goods?
Yes, most imported goods are subject to 15% GST in New Zealand. GST is calculated on the total of the goods' value, freight costs, insurance, and any import duties. Goods valued under NZ$1,000 may be exempt from duty but GST still applies to most imports. Our Instant Quote tool calculates your exact GST amount upfront.
Can I track my shipment through customs?
Yes, Easy Freight provides visibility at every stage of the customs clearance process. Once you approve your quote and our brokers begin processing, you'll receive updates on the progress of your clearance. Our transparent process means you always know what's happening with your shipment.
What does a customs broker do?
A customs broker is a professional who manages the import clearance process on your behalf. This includes lodging import entry declarations with NZ Customs, classifying goods under the correct tariff codes, calculating duties and GST, and ensuring compliance with MPI biosecurity requirements. Using a customs brokerage service like Easy Freight means your shipments clear the border accurately and without unnecessary delays.
How do I import goods into New Zealand?
To import to NZ, you need a supplier or shipping arrangement to get goods to a New Zealand port or airport, plus a professional customs broker to handle NZ customs clearance. The broker lodges your import entry, arranges duty and GST payment, and manages any MPI inspections. Easy Freight covers the entire process from customs brokerage through to delivery, and our Instant Quote tool shows you the full cost of importing to New Zealand before you commit.