Border clearance charges
MPI may charge you for costs related to inspecting unaccompanied household goods and personal items brought into New Zealand by air or sea.
Charges are based on the number of items that need inspecting.
Inspection costs for unaccompanied household goods and personal items
| Number of items inspected | Fee (excl GST) | Fee (incl GST) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $25.57 | $29.41 |
| 2 to 4 | $51.13 | $58.80 |
| 5 to 12 | $102.27 | $117.61 |
| 13 to 20 | $132.95 | $152.89 |
| 21 to 28 | $158.52 | $182.30 |
| 29 to 36 | $184.08 | $211.69 |
| More than 36 – charge for each block or part-block of 8 items | $25.57 | $29.41 |
You may be charged extra fees if MPI's biosecurity inspector has to:
- travel to inspect your goods
- wait before inspection can start
- be called out after hours.
MPI may bill you for these services, or you may be charged by your import or shipping agent.
Clearance costs for passenger or mail items are largely Crown-funded
If you are a passenger bringing personal items into New Zealand, your inspection charges are covered by the New Zealand Government. The government also covers the costs of inspecting goods for personal use that arrive by mail.
You may be charged fees if MPI has to store or re-ship any goods.
Costs for checking containers
Containers used to bring in household goods or personal items will also need to be inspected. You may have to pay extra costs for this inspection.
Find out more
Who to contact
If you have questions about MPI's fees and charges, email info@mpi.govt.nz.
