Published by Chris Townsend
Last updated Dec, 15 2025
International Movers Canada to New Zealand
You can’t get much further from Canada than New Zealand. These two countries are more than 13,000 km apart, separated by vast oceans and continents. Because of this distance, moving to New Zealand from Canada can be expensive. You can expect to pay between $11,700 - $15,800 for the shipping alone before the other taxes and fees you will need to pay. This price is for a full container offering 12 meters of space. A half-container provides 6 meters of space for a couple hundred less.
You will also need to pack your belongings with care. The trip from the local countries will take 6 to 8 weeks. Damage can occur due to rough seas or handling, so if it means enough to you to bring it to the other side of the world, take the time to pack it properly.
International Shipment
Three Movers is one of the most highly-rated shipping and moving companies today. We have been providing quality service to customers for over two decades, and our experience and expertise are unrivaled. We offer a wide range of shipping and moving services, from international shipments to local moves, and we can cater to any need or budget.
We understand that shipping and moving can be stressful, so we work hard to make it as smooth and hassle-free as possible. We offer free shipping quotes so you can get an idea of the cost upfront, and we always strive to deliver our services at the most competitive prices. We also have a team of experienced and professional customs brokers who can handle all the paperwork and red tape associated with customs clearance.
We understand that every country has its own set of import regulations and fees, so we work with our clients that ship internationally with the shipping process, like import fee payment, to avoid customs delays as quickly and easily as possible because we understand that customs clearance takes time and customs officer checks everything coming into an importing country. We have extensive experience shipping to countries worldwide, and we know which countries require a commercial invoice and which do not.
Customs Clearance Process
All household goods must be processed through the Ministry for Primary Industries and the New Zealand Customs Service.
Required documents:
- Detailed packing list
- Passport
- Customs & quarantine declaration forms
- Visa
- Prescriptions for any medications
To qualify to import your household goods tax and duty-free, you must:
- Be in New Zealand when your goods arrive
- Have an active visa e.g., a student visa or a passport
- Have lived in your country of origin for at least a year before your move to New Zealand
- Have owned and used the household goods in your country of origin for at least a year.
You are strictly prohibited from discharging any household goods within a year of your arrival. That means you can’t sell, rent, lease, loan, or dispose of the goods without retroactively owing those taxes.
Quarantine
Like these countries, New Zealand has a unique and valuable ecosystem. The people of this country prize New Zealand’s natural resources and seek to protect them from unwanted pests or diseases. For this reason, all international shipments into the area are carefully inspected for contaminants, insects, diseases, or other pests. Most shipments will have at least a few items requiring quarantine or fumigation. One good rule of thumb is to avoid bringing items that have been in contact with bugs, soil, vegetation, or other natural materials.
Importing a Vehicle
To import a vehicle, it is recommended that you work with an experienced shipper or at least an entry certifier. Working with professionals will give you peace of mind as you make your way through this lengthy, complicated process. Even if you decide to move your vehicle independently, you should contact an entry certifier to pre-qualify your vehicle for import. You don’t want to ship your car to New Zealand only to be rejected at the border when it’s too late.
To register your vehicle in New Zealand, you must prove that it meets the country’s frontal impact and exhaust emissions standards and, when necessary, to prove that electronic stability control requirements are met. Check with your entry certifier or shipper to determine what is required for your vehicle.
Three Movers
Working with an international moving company is the best way to move. Three Movers has the expertise to achieve a flawless move from paperwork to logistics. By activating our network of international haulers partners, we can find you the best price, with the best shippers, at the best time. All you will have to worry about is getting yourself there. We can handle the rest. Contact us today for your free, no-obligation shipping quote.
Moves From Canada to New Zealand: Our Top Routes
Relocation from many different cities in Canada to various cities in New Zealand can be completed by our movers.
- Toronto to Auckland
- Montreal to Christchurch
- Calgary to Wellington
- Mississauga to Hamilton
- Winnipeg to Tauranga
- Canada to Lower Hutt
Frequently Asked Questions
Moving to New Zealand from Canada is an international move that usually combines household packing, ocean freight, customs clearance, and local delivery. Most Canadians ship belongings by shared container (LCL) or full container (20 ft or 40 ft) depending on home size. Transit is commonly 6–10 weeks port to port, with final delivery shortly after clearance. Costs vary by home size, container type, origin city, destination port, and insurance. Many households reduce costs by shipping essentials only and buying furniture after arrival.
Most Canada to New Zealand moves cost $6,000–$15,000 USD for a typical 1–3 bedroom shipment. Pricing is driven by volume (in cubic meters), container choice, packing level, fuel surcharges, port fees, and customs handling. Full-container moves cost more upfront but reduce handling risk. Insurance, rural delivery in New Zealand, and seasonal shipping demand can add to totals. For a detailed breakdown of shipping and handling expenses, see international moving costs.
Canadians usually choose shared container (LCL) or exclusive container (FCL) shipping. LCL suits smaller moves and costs less but involves consolidation handling. FCL offers faster processing and fewer touchpoints, ideal for 3+ bedroom homes or high-value items. Air freight is rarely cost-effective for full households. Choice depends on inventory size, delivery urgency, and budget. Understanding ocean freight pricing helps set expectations for timelines and port charges. Learn more about methods and pricing at moving overseas shipping costs.
Yes, Canadians moving permanently to New Zealand can ship used household goods duty-free if they meet residency and ownership rules. Immigration pathways often include the skilled migrant visa New Zealand program or work-to-residence options. Movers coordinate packing inventories and customs documentation, but immigration approval is handled separately. Timing shipments to arrive after visa confirmation helps avoid storage fees. Permanent moves benefit from careful inventory planning and realistic delivery windows based on port congestion and inspections.
New Zealand enforces strict biosecurity rules. Outdoor equipment, shoes, tools, and sports gear must be professionally cleaned. Items like untreated wood, soil-contaminated goods, food, and some animal products are restricted or prohibited. Inspections are routine, and cleaning or disposal fees apply if standards are not met. Proper packing, clear labeling, and accurate inventories reduce delays. Planning ahead is critical to avoid unexpected costs or shipment holds at the port.
After arrival, customs and biosecurity clearance typically take 5–14 business days if documents are correct. Delivery timing depends on container type, inspection outcomes, local transport distance, and housing access. Urban deliveries near Auckland or Wellington are faster than rural addresses. Crews usually schedule delivery within 3–7 days after clearance. Advance coordination, building access rules, and parking logistics help ensure a smooth final delivery. Storage-in-transit is available if housing is not ready; see international moving and storage.
