If you are considering permanent or temporary import of a caravan into Australia, Colless Young ensures you have a hassle-free experience.
The most common challenges caravan shippers encounter are with correct documentation, vehicle cleanliness, and selecting the right methods of loading and securing their caravan.
Importing vehicles involves specific customs regulations. We guide you through the necessary paperwork and ensure your caravan meets all compliance requirements. Our staff are well-versed in Vehicle Import Approvals (VIA) and all import regulations.
The most common method for international shipments is via RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) vessels. These large ships allow caravans to be driven on and off at the port, streamlining the loading and unloading process. While some smaller caravans might fit inside a standard shipping container, this is a less likely option for larger ones.
Temporary Imports
Caravans, campervans and trailers are eligible to be temporarily imported into Australia for a period of up to 12 months without the payment of duty or taxes, provided certain conditions are met.
Vehicles imported using a document called a CPD Carnet do not need a Vehicle Import Approval from the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts.
A CPD Carnet can be obtained from automobile associations that are members of the Federation Internationale d’Automobile (FIA) or the Alliance Internationale de Tourisme (AIT). These documents are issued for a fee by automobile associations who act as the national guaranteeing organisation (NGO) in the home country of the applicant. In Australia, the NGO is the Australian Automobile Association (AAA).
Permanent Imports
Are you looking at importing a caravan from New Zealand, the UK or USA? Make Colless Young your one-stop provider for all your needs, including container loading and shipping, Customs clearance and Quarantine inspection.
There is also a possibility there might be a sudden increase in caravan purchases from China. A recent blog by the Caravan Industry Association of Australia (CIAA) notes that the USA’s looming protectionist ‘America-first’ policies may impact the industry’s supply chains and open up access to new caravans from China to other markets like Australia.
They say that Chinese manufacturers and suppliers will be keen to diversify their target markets, and Australia is high on their list. Their reasoning is that it’s likely there will be a surplus of Chinese products, allowing for cheaper componentry and finished imported goods.
When venturing into the world of caravan shipping, choosing Colless Young as your forwarder makes all the difference:
- We have a proven track record of successful caravan deliveries.
- We have a strong reliable network of partners and overseas agents.
- Communication: we monitor your shipment and keep you informed during transit.
- Competitive Rates: we help you secure the best value for your money.
Vehicles Older than 25 Years
There’s no basic difference between importing new or used caravans. However, let us know if it’s older than 25 years. Vehicles including vans and motorhomes originally built more than 25 years ago may qualify to be entered on the Register of Approved Vehicles (RAV) – streamlining the process – depending on vehicle weight and proof of compliance.
For quotes and information about shipping caravans, including customs and quarantine, contact us here at Colless Young. Talk to Andrew, Tel: +61 7 3890 0800 email enq@collessyoung.com.au .
