Importing To New Zealand Via General Air Cargo

Welcome to Season 1 Episode 15

This episode of the Platinum Freight® Podcast with Peter McRae focuses on importing to New Zealand via General Air Cargo.

The conversation covers the differences between General Air Cargo and shipments sent via express carriers, the role of freight forwarders in the process, the importance of customs brokers in pre-clearing the cargo, and the steps involved in customs clearance for goods valued under and over a thousand New Zealand dollars.

Show Notes

• General Air Cargo is used for larger, bulkier shipments that are not time-sensitive and cost less to send than express carriers.

• Freight forwarders assist in sending goods via General Air Cargo by booking with airlines and handling the logistics.

• Having a customs broker pre-clear the cargo before it arrives in New Zealand is crucial to ensure a smooth customs clearance process.

• For goods valued under a thousand NZD, a customs broker is still necessary to ensure correct customs declarations.

• For goods valued over a thousand NZD, import duty, GST, and an import processing charge may apply.

• Importers need to have a New Zealand Customs Service importer code and should apply for it well in advance.

• Importers can collect their goods from the airline terminal after customs clearance and payment of any fees or charges.

• Tips for importers include obtaining the importer code before the goods depart, contacting a customs broker early in the process, and ensuring insurance for high-value goods.