Relocating or returning to New Zealand
If you are moving to New Zealand for the first time, or you're a returning New Zealander, you'll need to know about how to ship your personal effects. MPI has a brochure available with information about what you need to know.
Download the "Moving to New Zealand" brochure [PDF, 1.8 MB]
Prepare an inventory
Shipments of personal items must be accompanied by a detailed inventory listing all of the items in the consignment, and you must declare any restricted items. A good tip is to number boxes or packages and make a list of the items inside. If you're using a household removal company, you can ask their staff to do this for you.
Find out about the risk and prohibited items you'll need to declare
Complete declarations
For shipping personal items by sea or by air you'll need to complete an unaccompanied personal baggage declaration form (NZCS218) which you can download from the 'household effects' section of the NZ Customs website.
Household effects – NZ Customs Service
If you're sending goods that may be a biosecurity risk, it's recommended you fill out a personal effects supplementary declaration. This voluntary declaration provides more information about specific items and could change the risk status of your consignment. Filling out the supplementary declaration may lead to reduced clearance costs and faster clearance times.
Download the personal effects supplementary declaration [PDF, 333 KB]
Once your completed documents have been presented, MPI staff will screen the declarations, along with the list of contents against any relevant import health standards to determine the risk status.
In most cases, no inspection of cargo is necessary – but inspection of sea containers is mandatory. This inspection is always carried out by MPI or an accredited person.
If inspection of goods is required, MPI Border Clearance Services will need to be notified of the location of the goods.
Contact MPI Border Clearance Services
Inspections are carried out in MPI approved warehouses called transitional facilities. Check with your agent to find out where your goods will be inspected.
Full containers
If you are bringing in a shipping or sea container full of your own household goods and items you'll need to meet extra requirements, including completing a quarantine declaration.
Refer to the steps to importing containers and cargo
Wood packaging requirements
If your goods are shipped to New Zealand in wooden crates or containers, or wood has been used as flooring or walls, you'll need to comply with requirements for importing wood packaging.
Follow the steps to importing wood packaging
What happens when you declare items
If you have declared any items that are prohibited in New Zealand, you're likely to have 4 choices. The items will be:
- inspected and returned to you
- re-shipped
- destroyed at an approved facility
- treated at an approved facility . You'll need to make arrangements to collect the items once treated. Be aware that some items cannot be treated.
Fees and charges will apply.
Find out more
Visit the NZ Customs Service website
Who to contact
If you have questions about bringing household goods and personal effects to New Zealand, email info@mpi.govt.nz
