Importing in large bulk/customs

Customs Website has a lot of info.  I accidently went over the 1K mark, I needed to apply for A Importers Number. Brookers make the whole process much easier.

First step would be to register as an importer with NZ Customs to get an Importers Client code number if you haven't already. This will be needed if you clear yourself or through an agent. I have used DSL brokers for my customs work since 2004. If it's a basic clearance and you are confident you can do it yourself you can save a little bit. Here's an example from the last import I had, where I arranged the LCL freight myself. They also collect for the IRD the GST on the shipping and import value too so you just have one bill to pay for the import before it can be delivered/collected rather than having to pay several people. You can get them to arrange delivery to you, or you can pickup from the air/shipping agents which is what I usually do. This example was for 15 cartons total weight 330kg and about USD 5K.

Yeah over $1k is pretty easy to hit these days. A single watch, camera, phone or whatever can do it. So it's common that people come up against it. The process is straight forward.  As the others have said once you have your Client Code Number you are away. So far for me whichever courier is bringing the stuff in (DHL, UPS, NZPost whatever) just contacts me and asks for Client Code. They then ask if I want them to arrange clearance, or if I have my own broker to do it. I've always just gone with their process. Occasionality the exporter documents aren't that flash from China especially, so I have to source and forward decent invoices before they will clear it. Clearance and various fees seem to come in at less than $100 each time. Having a broker maybe just another step to slow things down and clip the ticket? But if you have them on board beforehand I guess it might make things smoother. Especially if your item has some tricky aspects to it like safety or compliance that needs to be sorted out.

This is all for smaller items but higher values. Say a couple of banana box sizes. Things might be different if you are bringing in larger volumes. CL, or LCL like Gary.

Thank you for the help, much appreciated.