You may be surprised to hear that there are 17 different importing options for people considering bringing a motorized vehicle or trailer into Australia. The most common option is for vehicles that are manufactured prior to 1989. This is the option that relates to classic and many muscle cars that we Australian's love so much.
How to apply for import approval in Australia.
The importation of asbestos into Australia is prohibited. An Australia-wide ban on the manufacture and use of all types of asbestos and Asbestos Containing Material (ACM) took effect on 31 December 2003.
See our Australian Car Import guide for more details on Asbestos when importing a car to Australia.
When your vehicle arrives at the port in Australia, you will have a local agent there to guide you on all import procedures. The agent will accept the container, truck it to their facilities for unloading, clear import customs, fumigation, and provide any necessary modifications required for local road use. They are also able to provide suggestions on temporary imports and insurance.
Currently, any left-hand drive vehicle can be imported if it was made before January 1, 1989, as long as it's not highly modified. Any left-hand drive vehicle made after 1989 must be converted to right-hand drive within 12 months of landing in Australia. The vehicle cannot be driven until it is converted.
Download the Australia Import Guide to get answers to your questions about importing a car to Australia.
Vehicle documentation:
International residents:
US citizens:
We accept wire transfers, checks, and ban deposits only. Read more about banking fees when paying from overseas.
We do not accept credit card payments.
