Why shipping to Australia requires special planning

Australia is an attractive destination for vehicle, machinery and project cargo – and at the same time one of the strictest countries when it comes to biosecurity and vehicle imports. In addition to choosing the right route and a reliable carrier, three points are particularly critical:

1. Import licence/regulations for vehicles (VIA/ROVER, RVS regime)
2. Biosecurity cleanliness: absolutely clean – inside and out
3. Customs clearance/ABF including correct declaration, inspections and any necessary follow-up procedures

Those who structure their process consistently reduce demurrage charges, re-runs and queries – and get the shipment to Australia safely across the finish line.

Routes & Ports: Which gateways will matter in 2025

The most common sea connections from Europe are via the Atlantic – Indian Ocean (Cape/Asia bypass) or via the Mediterranean – Suez – Indian Ocean to the major Australian gateways. Depending on the type of cargo and service, carriers combine main hubs and feeders:

• East Coast: Sydney (Port Botany), Melbourne, Brisbane, Port Kembla/Wollongong
• South Coast: Adelaide
• West Coast: Fremantle (Perth)
• Raw material/project runs: e.g. Port Hedland, Newcastle depending on service

Plan live departures and ETAs realistically:

• Timetables → https://odsorient.com/fahrplaene
• What do I need to bear in mind when shipping by RoRo? → https://odsorient.com/was-muss-ich-bei-einer-roro-verschiffung-beachten

Comparison of transport modes: RoRo vs. containers (FCL/LCL)

The digital booking process – step by step

1. Enquiry & Routing
   • Port of departure/destination, ETD/ETA, cargo data, services (insurance, pre-carriage/post-carriage, documents)
2. Offer & slot reservation
   • Booking number, cut-offs, terminal details – final prices available on request only
3. Documents & Export
   • Commercial invoice, packing list, export documents, B/L data, VIA (for vehicles)
4. Preparation of the shipment
   • RoRo: cleaned, tank < ¼, battery charged
   • Container: stowable, protected against moisture/corrosion
5. Gate-In & Loading
   • Condition report, slackening, complying with document deadlines
6. Tracking & Arrival
   • Tracking by B/L or VIN, organise exemption at the terminal

Customs, biosecurity & vehicle import: What Australia requires

ABF – Customs & Vehicle Imports

Vehicles may only be imported with VIA. Inspections prior to release are possible. For specifications, see: https://www.abf.gov.au

DAFF – Biosecurity

Vehicles and machinery must be clean – no soil, seeds or insects. Cleaning prior to shipment and photographic documentation are recommended. See: https://www.agriculture.gov.au

Department of Infrastructure – VIA/ROVER

VIA is mandatory for many vehicles. Application via the ROVER portal. No import without VIA. Further information: https://www.infrastructure.gov.au

Time slots & cut-offs: What you can realistically expect

Common stumbling blocks – and how to avoid them

1. Biosecurity underestimated – follow-up cleaning necessary
2. VIA late – vehicle remains blocked
3. Incomplete documents – queries cause delays
4. Incorrect transport mode – e.g. sensitive parts in RoRo
5. Outdated timetables – use live data: https://odsorient.com/fahrplaene

Checklist: Your quick start guide to shipping to Australia

Before booking

• ✅ Clarify load profile
• ✅ Set destination port
• ✅ Check timetables → https://odsorient.com/fahrplaene
• ✅ Biosecurity cleaning & photo documentation
• ✅ Apply for VIA → https://www.infrastructure.gov.au
• ✅ Select transport insurance

During the booking process

• ✅ Documents complete
• ✅ Note cut-offs
• ✅ Prepare the vehicle/container correctly

After departure

• ✅ Actively use tracking
• ✅ Arrival preparation (DAFF, ABF)
• ✅ Plan for additional costs (e.g. inspection)

Practical table: Which details speed up the review process?

Additional information for vehicle importers

• Compliance & Modifications: Observe RVS/RAV steps
• Taxes and duties: depending on age, value, origin
• asbestos testingZero tolerance for older/modified vehicles – proof required

Further ODS resources

• Timetables & Slots → https://odsorient.com/fahrplaene
• RoRo preparation → https://odsorient.com/was-muss-ich-bei-einer-roro-verschiffung-beachten

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about shipping to Australia

How long does the shipment take?
Several weeks, depending on the route. Use live timetables.

What documents are required?
VIA, invoice, packing list, B/L, export documents, cleaning certificate.

RoRo or container - which is better?
RoRo for roadworthy vehicles, containers for sensitive/disassembled cargo.

How much does shipping cost?
Depends on dimensions, season, route and services – individual quote required.

How strict is biosecurity?
Very strict – complete cleaning is mandatory.

Conclusion: Achieving your goal with structure

You can minimise risks by initiating VIA/ROVER early, using live timetables, adhering to cut-offs and preparing the shipment carefully. An individual quote based on real data will help you find the right mode of transport and reliable costs.

Disclaimer: All information in this article has been carefully researched but is subject to change at any time. ODS Orient accepts no liability for the topicality, accuracy and completeness of the information provided.