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Shipping to Australia: Frequently Asked Questions

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It’s unlikely that you've ever had to move to Australia before so it can be easy to compare the process to a move in the UK; both involve packing up all your belongings, loading them into a van and then unloading them on the other side.

However, there are many more factors to take into account with a move to Australia such as whether to take your electrical devices, the length of time you will be without your possessions and whether or not you will be required to pay any additional customs charges.

With more than 30 years of experience in helping people head to Australia, we asked PSS International Removals for their answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the process:

PSS International Removals

What goods to take  

Choosing a moving company

Deciding on policy options

What to do when your goods arrive


What goods to take

PSS International Removals

Q: What should I take with me?

A: The vast majority of people will take as much as they can, if not everything. While this may sound difficult, getting rid of many of your belongings can be even more time consuming and, if you decide to sell some things, the money you raise may not cover the cost of furnishing a new house in Australia.  Also, many things we all own have a lot of sentimental value.

Q. What should I not take?

A: You may wish to leave certain electrical items and purchase new ones in Australia. While both the UK and Australia use the same current, the plug sockets differ and will require an adaptor in every socket.

Q: Is it worth taking my furniture?

A: It’s reasonable to think that shipping large items such as beds, settees and appliances will be costly. However, purchasing new furniture in Australia can be expensive in itself and you shouldn’t rule either option out until you have checked the costs involved in both.


Choosing a moving company

Q: When should I be planning for removal?

A: Moving overseas is a much bigger commitment than moving within the UK and preparations should be underway well in advance. Many people choose to begin checking costs and quotes six months before hand.

Q: Which company should I use?

A: There are many reputable companies available and like many other industries, a strong recommendation is always beneficial. If however, you do not know of anyone else who has also moved to Australia, there are three qualifications to look out for in an international mover:

British Association of Removers - Overseas Remover

This qualification means the company is officially registered. It should also have the ‘advance payment guarantee’ on its badge which covers any policy as part of the International Movers Mutual Insurance Scheme.

FAIM

FAIM is the highest quality assurance standard recognised internationally and requires all holders to be routinely audited to ensure that standard is upheld.

FIDI Global Alliance

FIDI is an internationally recognised organisation which accredits movers around the world to work together. This means a London based company can liaise with an Australian based company to ensure moves are carried out with full teams and proper equipment in both countries.

PSS International Removals is accredited with all three qualifications.

Q: What do I need to do before getting a quote?

A: Firstly, make a list of every item you want to take with you and estimate its cubic volume. Try to get this as accurately as possible as if the ‘volume estimated’ is less than the eventual ‘volume packed’, the price could also increase.

Q: Can I get a quote online?

A: You will be able to find a quote online but this should only be taken as an estimate and you will always benefit from a home survey in which a more accurate price can be given.


Deciding on policy options

PSS International Removals

Q: Should I use a shared container or a sole use container?

A: Shared container is often a cheaper option and great for people who are taking few items. Your goods will be packed at your home and then taken to a warehouse for shipment with other goods being shipped to the same destination. The waiting time will depend on how many other customers are shipping items to your destination.

Sole container is the most popular option and allows for greater customisation and volume being shipped. Your goods will be packed into the container at your home and taken directly to the shipping vessel, meaning the waiting time is reduced.

Q: Should I get insurance?

A: Like with most things you need an insurance policy or transit cover to protect you in the event of items being damaged or lost. While most companies will use high quality and durable containers, you should still be prepared for any eventuality during shipment across roads and sea. Beware of cheap offers for cover as these may sound attractive but are rarely comprehensive.

Q: What happens if I need storage for my possessions?

A: In most cases you can request a quote for storage both in the UK and also upon in Australia. Be aware that offers of free storage upon arrival may not include a handling charge which can vary and which is often payable at the end of the storage period, so always ensure you get a quote for store handling as well as storage.

What to do when your goods arrive

Q: How long will my order take?

A: Depending on the policy options you select, your order can take between six and nine weeks for sole use full containers and between eight and 12 weeks for shared containers.

Q: What happens when my goods arrive?

A: You should be contacted before your goods arrive and you will be required to complete a customs form. It is important to complete any documentation as soon as possible to ensure efficient processing of your goods. You should be informed of any customs regulations pertinent and your goods could be subjected to examination.