Importing a car to Australia can be both exciting and challenging. Whether it’s a classic collectible, luxury European model, Japanese import, or a personal vehicle relocation, navigating customs, compliance, and logistics can feel overwhelming. Strict Australian regulations on vehicle safety, emissions, and quarantine mean mistakes can be costly in both time and money.
That’s where working with the right logistics partner comes in. Professional freight forwarders streamline the process, handle the paperwork, and ensure your car arrives safely and legally.
At EGL – Emerald Global Logistics, we specialise in car import Australia services, providing tailored solutions that cover everything from international shipping to customs clearance and final delivery. With decades of experience, EGL ensures your vehicle arrives without hassle.
Access Rare or Classic Cars not available locally.
Luxury & Performance Models often cheaper overseas.
Relocation: Bringing your own car when moving to Australia.
Specialised Vehicles for business or events.
The demand for vehicle imports to Australia is strong, particularly from Japan, Europe, and the USA.
Cars must meet the Road Vehicle Standards Act (RVSA). Approval categories include:
Personal Import Scheme
Specialist & Enthusiast Vehicles
Low-Volume Import Scheme
Before shipping, you must obtain an import approval from the Department of Infrastructure. Importing without approval can result in your car being seized.
Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo): Vehicle is driven onto the vessel. Cost-effective for standard cars.
Container Shipping: Offers extra protection. Ideal for high-value or classic cars.
Australian Border Force requires import declaration, purchase invoice, and proof of ownership.
Department of Agriculture inspects for quarantine risks (soil, plant matter, etc.).
Import Duty: Usually 5% of customs value.
GST: 10% on most imports.
Luxury Car Tax (LCT): Applies if the car exceeds the threshold (currently ~$76,950 for fuel-efficient vehicles).
Vehicles may need modifications to meet Australian Design Rules (ADRs) before they can be registered.
Typical costs include:
Shipping Fees: AUD $2,000–$5,000 depending on origin and method.
Import Duty & GST: Based on car’s value.
Luxury Car Tax (if applicable).
Customs Clearance Fees.
Compliance & Registration Costs.
💡 Tip: EGL provides upfront cost estimates to help you avoid unexpected expenses.
Stress-Free Process: Experts handle paperwork and regulations.
Faster Clearance: Avoid delays at customs and quarantine.
Cost Efficiency: Optimised freight solutions.
Protection: Insurance and secure shipping options.
Peace of Mind: Car arrives safely and legally.
At EGL – Emerald Global Logistics, we provide complete door-to-door car import solutions across Australia. Learn more about us on our About Us page.
Start Early: Import approvals can take weeks.
Prepare Documents: Have invoices, proof of ownership, and ID ready.
Clean the Vehicle: Ensure it’s free of dirt and organic matter to pass quarantine.
Check ADR Compliance: Especially for modified or older vehicles.
Use Insurance: Protects against damage during transit.
Shipping Without Import Approval: Leads to fines or vehicle seizure.
Underestimating Costs: Forgetting GST, duties, and LCT.
Incorrect Paperwork: Causes customs delays.
Choosing the Wrong Shipping Method: Risk of damage if protection is insufficient.
Not Using Experts: DIY imports often result in compliance issues.
Car Collectors: Importing classic American muscle cars into Melbourne.
Relocations: Families moving from the UK bringing their own vehicles.
Luxury Imports: Businesses importing prestige vehicles from Europe for resale.
On average, 6–10 weeks including shipping, customs, and compliance.
No. Cars must meet RVSA eligibility criteria and Australian Design Rules.
Costs vary, but expect AUD $5,000–$15,000 including shipping, duties, and compliance.
Yes. Insurance is highly recommended to protect against transit damage.
Yes, but restrictions apply. Often requires conversion unless classified under certain schemes.
Importing a car into Australia requires knowledge of shipping logistics, customs, taxes, and compliance regulations. Without expert support, delays and unexpected costs are common.
At EGL – Emerald Global Logistics, we provide tailored car import Australia services to ensure your vehicle arrives safely, quickly, and legally. From paperwork and quarantine to shipping and delivery, we handle it all.
👉 Ready to import your car the easy way? Contact EGL today for expert guidance and a free consultation.
