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How to ship clothing from China to New Zealand?

Author:HAIYUAN TIME:2025-07-02Read:

Shipping clothing from China to New Zealand involves navigating logistics, customs, and regulations. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth process:


1. Choose a Shipping Method

Method Best For Transit Time Cost Pros & Cons
Express Couriers (DHL, FedEx, UPS) Urgent/small shipments (<100 kg) 3–7 days $$$$ √ Fast, door-to-door, real-time tracking
× Expensive for bulk
Air Freight 100–1,000 kg 5–10 days $$$ √ Faster than sea, better for mid-volume
× Higher cost/kg, customs handling needed
Sea Freight (FCL/LCL) Large orders (500+ kg) 20–35 days $ (FCL), $$ (LCL) √ Cheapest for bulk, eco-friendly
× Slowest, port fees, complex paperwork

Note:

  • FCL (Full Container): Ideal for 10+ cubic meters (e.g., 20ft container = 28–30 m³).

  • LCL (Less than Container): Pay for space used; good for smaller bulk shipments.

Chinese ports

2. Prepare Documentation

Avoid customs delays with these documents:

  • Commercial Invoice: Detailed description, value, HS codes (e.g., clothing HS codes: 6109/6110 for T-shirts, 6203 for men’s suits).

  • Packing List: Weight, dimensions, carton count.

  • Bill of Lading (Sea) or Air Waybill (Air).

  • Certificate of Origin (if claiming tariff preferences under China-NZ FTA).

  • Biosecurity Declaration (NZ requirement for organic materials like wool/cotton).

 NZ Customs Tip: Clothing is duty-free but subject to 15% GST on (value + freight + insurance). For commercial imports, register for GST.


3. Comply with NZ Regulations

  • Labeling: Garments must have fiber content labels (e.g., "100% cotton") in English.

  • Biosecurity: NZ MPI (Ministry for Primary Industries) may inspect for contaminants (soil, pests). Vacuum-pack clothing to reduce risk.

  • Used Clothing: Requires import permit and must be clean/disinfected.

  • Safety Standards: Children’s sleepwear must meet flammability standards (AS/NZS 1249).


4. Calculate Costs

Cost Factor Details
Freight Charges Based on weight/volume (chargeable weight = actual vs. volumetric weight).
Customs GST 15% of (CIF value: Cost + Insurance + Freight).
MPI Inspection Fees NZ$102–$249/hour if inspection triggered.
Port/Airport Fees ~NZ$150–$400 (handling, documentation).
Duties Usually 0% for clothing (check NZ Tariff Finder).

5. Select a Reliable Logistics Partner

  • Freight Forwarders: Use companies like DHL Global Forwarding, Kuehne+Nagel, or local NZ agents (e.g., Mainfreight).

  • Key Services to Request:

    • Door-to-door delivery.

    • Customs clearance assistance.

    • Cargo insurance (cover 110% value for loss/damage).

    • LCL consolidation (if shipping smaller batches).


6. Packaging Tips

  • Use strong cartons (ECT-32+ or 200# burst strength) and waterproof liners.

  • Maximize container space: palletize or use bale packaging for bulk garments.

  • Avoid wooden pallets (requires ISPM-15 treatment) – use plastic instead.


7. Save Money & Avoid Pitfalls

  • Consolidate Shipments: Combine orders via LCL to reduce costs.

  • Incoterms: Use FOB (China port) – you control freight/customs in NZ. Avoid EXW unless experienced.

  • Avoid Delays:

    • Submit documents electronically 48+ hours pre-arrival.

    • Ensure HS codes match NZ customs database.

    • Pre-pay GST via NZ Customs’ "Secure Export Scheme".


Sample Cost Breakdown (Sea Freight LCL)

Item Cost
500 kg clothing (2m³) NZ$600–$900
Customs GST (15% of CIF) NZ$450 (if CIF = $3,000)
Port Fees + Forwarder Fee NZ$300–$500
Total ~NZ$1,350–$1,850

Top Resources

Choose air freight for speed or sea for cost savings. Partner with a freight forwarder experienced in NZ imports to handle complexities efficiently! 

Useful links:

  1. Chinese Customs
  2. New Zealand Customs

 
 

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