After years of searching, I finally found the car of my dreams! When the time came to relocate from the UK to New Zealand, I decided (perhaps foolishly) that my car had to come with me. The process was full of challenges, but I learned a lot along the way. Hopefully, my experience can help you if you’re thinking of doing the same.

Important Note

This guide is based on my experience exporting a vehicle from the UK to New Zealand. However, rules and requirements can change, so always check with your shipping company and local authorities before making any decisions.

The Journey Begins

Most moving companies we spoke to were very helpful and offered vehicle shipping options. After doing some research, we chose to ship in two containers: one for personal belongings and another exclusively for the car. That decision turned out to be a lifesaver.

In New Zealand, companies that specialize in vehicle shipping are often licensed to perform quarantine inspections. If personal items are included in the car’s container, everything must be moved to a facility capable of handling both. This can quickly turn into a logistical nightmare.

Unexpected Hurdles

Once the car arrived, issues appeared almost immediately.

1. Dead Battery

The car’s battery was not disconnected before shipping, so after months of storage, it was completely dead. Unfortunately, the car lacks a manual bonnet release. While we were lucky the doors were not locked, accessing the battery inside the confined space of the container was a major challenge.

2. Tracking System Troubles

After replacing the battery, the car started and ran beautifully for one minute. Then it shut down. The car’s tracking system had detected that it was no longer in the UK, assumed it was stolen, and activated the immobiliser.

I contacted the tracking company, and after proving ownership, they disabled the system remotely from 12,000 miles away. Success? Not quite. The car started again, ran for another minute, then shut off once more.

3. Out of Fuel

At this point, the shipping company would not let me remove the car from the container, and no specialist could inspect it until it was unloaded. Stuck in a bind, I paid to have the entire container trucked to a specialist car importer. They had the tools to unload and inspect the car, even if it was not operational.

It turned out the issue was fuel-related. The tank had been drained before shipping, and although the gauge showed a quarter tank, it was completely empty. A quick refill, and the car roared to life perfectly. 🤦‍♂️

Finishing Touches

Once your car clears quarantine and structural inspections, you will need to pay the NZ Clean Car Standard. Then you can head to an AA office to register the car and collect your licence plates.

My car came from Europe, so the standard New Zealand plates did not look quite right. Fortunately, Kiwi Plates lets you choose custom designs that better match your vehicle.

Tips for a Smooth Process

To make your vehicle import as hassle-free as possible, keep the following in mind:

  1. Clean Thoroughly
    Make sure the car is spotless inside, outside, and underneath. Professional cleaning before loading makes quarantine inspections much easier. New Zealand inspectors are especially vigilant about dirt, insects, and hidden pests.

  2. Inspect for Damage
    Ensure the car has no rust or visible damage. Inspectors will scrutinise any repairs for potential issues.

  3. Prepare the Car for Shipping

    • Disconnect the battery before loading.
    • Leave a small amount of fuel in the tank for manoeuvrability.
    • Remove any international tracking or telemetry systems that will not function in New Zealand.

  4. Separate Shipments
    Always ship the car in its own container. Personal belongings and furniture should go in a separate one.

Moving a car internationally can be stressful, but with proper preparation, it is entirely manageable. I hope this guide helps smooth your journey! 🚗