At a glance:
- Shipping a motorcycle to New Zealand varies in cost depending on size, with standard bikes costing around AU$2,985 for return shipping.
- Additional charges may apply, such as a NZ$50 storage fee in Christchurch and potential cleaning fees for biosecurity compliance.
- Insurance is not included, so arranging transit and travel insurance is highly recommended for protection.
- Shipping takes 12–20 working days, and booking in advance with an AU$600 deposit secures your spot.
If you are a motorcyclist in Australia, you might have dreamt of exploring New Zealand’s countryside at least once. The thrill is different when you ride your own familiar and well-equipped bike while exploring. Instead of renting a motorcycle in another country, you can ship your own motorcycles ahead of time. That way, you have your bike ready to hit the scenic routes of New Zealand when you land.
At Get Routed, we specialise in trouble-free motorcycle shipping from Australia to New Zealand, bringing your bike safely and on time to you. Now the question is, how expensive is it to ship a motorcycle to New Zealand? In this blog post, we break down the charges, costs, and things to look out for so you can plan your motorcycle trip efficiently.
Motorcycle Shipping Charges from Australia to New Zealand
New Zealand shipping prices for motorbikes depend on the size of the motorbike and whether it is a one-way or return journey transport. Standard motorbikes, with lengths not exceeding 2.30 metres, would cost AU$2,985 for a two-way transport. The size of the motorcycle is a considerable factor in pricing as these motorbikes can fit very well in a general shipping container and, therefore, could be loaded and shipped in an ideal manner.
For longer bikes over 2.30 meters, the cost of two-way transportation is AU$5,875. Due to the larger size of these motorbikes, they occupy more space within the container, reducing the number of bikes going into a consignment. Therefore, the shipping cost per bike increases.
If you prefer only one-way delivery, it starts at AU$2,355 for bikes up to 2.30 metres long. The one-way shipping price for all other 2-wheel bikes is AU$3985. One-way transport, however, depends on space and accommodation within available shipping containers. Since return hauls are generally taken on demand, riders who opt for one-way delivery must check availability to prevent disappointment.
Normally, shipping costs attempt to factor in bike size, container size, and handling charge to deliver every motorbike securely and inexpensively to its destination in New Zealand.
Other Charges & Conditions
Apart from the usual shipping charges, there are also some additional charges. If your motorbike has to be stored before you collect it in Christchurch, then there is a one-time charge of NZ$50 for storage, regardless of the storage duration.
New Zealand also has strict quarantine and customs. To qualify for biosecurity standards, you need to clean your motorbike to free it from organic material, mud, or soil. Not doing so may incur additional cleaning charges or delays in clearance time.
For safety and conformity, you must remove the battery and drain the fuel tank before shipping. Your bike must have less than 2 litres of fuel. This will ensure that the bike is safe for shipping abroad based on safety standards and avoid risk during transportation.
Insurance & Legal Requirements
Though Get Routed offers safe transit for motorbikes, insurance is not included in the shipping cost. It is highly advised to arrange transit insurance against loss or damage during shipping. It is also wise to buy comprehensive travel insurance, particularly if you are going to be motorcycling a lot in New Zealand. It will protect you against any mishap or accident.
Once your motorcycle arrives in New Zealand, it must meet local road safety standards before it can be ridden. This means obtaining a New Zealand Tourist Registration along with a Warrant of Fitness (WoF), which confirms your bike is roadworthy for the duration of your stay. The combined cost is approximately NZ$100, and it’s a mandatory step to ensure you’re legally and safely on the road during your Kiwi adventure.
Shipping Timeline
Get Routed provides motorcycle shipping from Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney, with flexible depot drop-off locations.
You’ll need to deliver your bike to the designated depot approximately 4 days before the scheduled shipping date. This allows time for pre-shipment inspections and container loading.
Shipping typically takes 12 to 20 working days, depending on schedules, customs clearance, and quarantine inspections. Exact loading and delivery dates are confirmed prior to the shipment, and riders will receive advance notice of pick-up and return dates to assist with planning.
Due to high demand, pre-booking is essential. A non-refundable AU$600 deposit is required to secure your spot, with the balance due one month before the shipping date to ensure a smooth process.
Get Routed accepts payment via credit card, bank transfer, or PayPal.
Plan Your New Zealand Motorcycle Adventure Today!
Shipping costs can vary depending on your bike and setup, but there’s nothing quite like riding your own bike through New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes. The whole process may seem like a hassle in the beginning. However, with a bit of preparation, the process is simple and stress-free. In addition, we’re always here to make this easier for you.
Book early with Get Routed to lock in your spot and make your Kiwi motorcycling adventure happen.
Visit our website to learn more about motorcycle shipping from Australia to New Zealand, the UK, and Europe. Or you can also contact us directly via E-Mail at: [email protected]
