Clearing New Zealand Customs & Biosecurity
New Zealand has strict Customs and biosecurity requirements for household goods and personal effects. Your shipment must be declared correctly, with particular attention given to items that may carry soil, seeds, plant material, insects or other biological contaminants. New Zealand's Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) may inspect, treat or require further action on items considered a biosecurity risk.
We prepare and check the necessary household-effects documentation with you, including the NZCS 218 form, packing inventory and supporting paperwork required for Customs clearance. We also help identify items that may require additional cleaning, declaration or inspection before your move leaves the UK.
Customs and MPI clearance times can vary depending on the contents of your shipment, whether an inspection is required and whether any items need treatment before release.
What paperwork do I need?
For household goods and personal effects, New Zealand Customs normally requires a completed NZCS 218 form, a copy of your passport, evidence of your right to live in New Zealand where applicable, a detailed packing list and the relevant shipping documents. An MPI supplementary biosecurity declaration and permits may also be required depending on what you are shipping.
We help you prepare and check the necessary paperwork before your belongings arrive in New Zealand.
How do I prepare items to avoid biosecurity delays?
Items that have been used outdoors should be thoroughly cleaned before packing and must be free from soil, mud, seeds, plant material and other organic matter.
Pay particular attention to footwear, bicycles, camping and sports equipment, garden tools and other outdoor items. Biosecurity-risk goods must be declared and may be inspected on arrival.
Preparing these items properly before collection can help reduce the risk of delays, additional cleaning or treatment charges.
Which items are restricted or may require treatment?
Food, plants and seeds, animal products, wooden or plant-based items and used outdoor equipment can all be subject to New Zealand biosecurity controls.
Some items may require inspection, cleaning, treatment or permits, while others may not be allowed into New Zealand at all.
If you are unsure about an item, tell us before packing so we can help you check the requirements before your shipment leaves the UK.
