Back
Network of 700+ movers
200,000 moves annually
6 ratings as "Good Communication"
Moving House
Moving Overseas
Container Shipping
Services
Find Removalists
Shipping your belongings from Australia to New Zealand using container shipping is one of the most reliable and cost-effective methods for transporting household goods, furniture, vehicles, and personal effects across the Tasman Sea. This guide explains how container shipping works, how much it costs, which container option to choose, and how to compare international movers so you can plan your relocation with confidence.
Container shipping, also known as sea freight, is the most common method for international household moves to New Zealand because it balances cost, security, and flexibility. It allows you to ship everything from a few household items to an entire home in a sealed maritime container.
The cost of container shipping from Australia to New Zealand depends on your departure city, destination port, container size, and time of year.
| Route | 20-foot container | 40-foot container |
|---|---|---|
| Sydney → Auckland | $1,800 – $2,200 | $2,500 – $3,000 |
| Melbourne → Dunedin | $2,000 – $2,400 | $2,800 – $3,300 |
| Perth → Wellington | $2,500 – $3,000 | $3,500 – $4,000 |
These prices are estimates only. Actual shipping costs vary by provider, seasonal demand, fuel surcharges, and port fees. Last updated: February 2026
There are several practical ways to reduce the cost of shipping a container from Australia to New Zealand without compromising reliability.
Shipping furniture and household goods by container is the preferred option for most household relocations to New Zealand, especially for moves larger than a small studio apartment. International moving companies often offer packaging, loading, and unloading services for furniture and household goods.
| Household size | Estimated price |
|---|---|
| 1-bedroom flat | $2,600 – $3,000 |
| 3-bedroom house | $4,100 – $4,500 |
| 5-bedroom house | $6,100 – $6,700 |
Disclaimer: Actual costs may be higher if additional services such as packing, unpacking, insurance, or inland transport are required. Last updated: February 2026
Specialised international movers handle container shipping, customs paperwork, and quarantine requirements for New Zealand-bound shipments.
Vehicles can be shipped from Australia to New Zealand either by RORO (Roll-on Roll-off) or inside a sealed shipping container.
| Vehicle type | RORO | Container |
|---|---|---|
| Car | $2,300 – $3,200 | $4,000 – $4,600 |
| Motorbike | $1,300 – $1,800 | $2,300 – $2,800 |
| Caravan | $2,500 – $3,700 | $5,500 – $6,000 |
Last updated: February 2026
You can read more about vehicle import requirements on the New Zealand Transport Agency website.
Understanding how the process works will help you plan your relocation, stay compliant with customs rules, and avoid unexpected delays or costs.
Most international movers follow the same relocation process:
Full Container Load (FCL) is best for full household moves, while Less than Container Load (LCL) suits smaller relocations where you share space with other shipments.
Comparing quotes from multiple international movers helps you evaluate pricing, transit times, inclusions, and insurance when moving overseas.
A detailed inventory of your personal effects is required for Australian export and New Zealand customs and biosecurity clearance.
Your mover will pack and collect your belongings, transport them to the departure port, and ship the container to New Zealand.
On arrival, your shipment must be cleared by New Zealand Customs and the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) before final delivery to your new home.
Comparing quotes from multiple international movers is the most reliable way to find the right service for your budget and needs. When comparing:
You now have a clearer picture of container shipping costs, best routes and what movers can support your Australia – New Zealand relocation by sea freight. Compare movers, understand your options, and book the service that fits your timeline and budget. For further information, see our FAQs below and related articles.
