Motorcycles are easier to ship than many other vehicles because they are small and lightweight. The cost is less to ship a motorcycle, but there are some preparations that must be made prior to shipping.

Australian laws regarding motorcycles and other vehicles are different than those in the United States. Emissions standards and equipment requirements may require that a motorcycle be modified before it can be placed on Australian roadways. The importer can find out more about emissions and equipment requirements on shipping motorcycles to Australia from Australian Customs. These modifications should be made prior to shipping to avoid unnecessary delay at customs. Before you ship your motorcycle to Australia, make sure you are aware of all potential duty and taxes that may be imposed at customs.

Before scheduling to ship a motorcycle to Australia, the shipper must apply for vehicle import approval (VIA) from the Vehicle Safety Standards branch of Infrastructure. The shipper must contact the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service to make arrangements for inspection and clearance once the motorcycle has been shipped to Australia. The importer must also possess an international passport for the temporary importation of the vehicle (a carnet). Tourists and temporary residents in Australia may acquire a Carnet De Passages en Douane (CDP carnet) that can be obtained by the country of origin if there is a reciprocal agreement between the country of origin and Australia. The CPD permits temporary admission of vehicles including motorcycles for a limited period of time without the payment of taxes and customs duties and dispenses with the need for a VIA.

In addition, shipment of goods over $2,500 in value must file a shipper’s export declaration to be filed with United States Customs. Once the Vehicle Import Approval is completed, the importer must file a declaration with Australian Customs and Border Protection before they ship a motorcycle to Australia. The broker can do this for the importer or it can be completed online through Australia’s Integrated Cargo System. The declaration may also be completed at customs after the motorcycle arrives at port.

The mirrors must be folded and all other equipment that protrudes from the motorcycle folded back if possible. Saddlebags or other luggage must be removed. The gas tank must be drained of all fuel and the battery disconnected. The battery can be shipped in a separate sealed package. The motorcycle must be thoroughly steam cleaned to remove all dirt and debris. Australian laws are stringent regarding the importation of pests and other biological contaminants that are found in soil and this must be considered even when you ship a motorcycle to Australia. The motorcycle can then be crated and shipped to your destination.