Importing a non-running motorcycle from the U.S. to Australia is absolutely possible—and often easier and safer than many riders and restorers expect. With the right approach to container shipping, documentation, cleaning, and compliance, your project or restoration bike can make the trip Down Under without unnecessary cost or risk.
For a full overview on all shipping scenarios, visit our main motorcycle and race car shipping guide.
RoRo shipping is never an option for non-running motorcycles: These vessels accept only operational, drive-on vehicles. By contrast, container shipping is purpose-built for non-runners—it allows for forklift or manual loading, secure crating or racking, and the safe inclusion of loose parts or accessories.
Standard 2025 rate: New York to Sydney is $950 per bike (containerized, 39 days) whether your motorcycle runs or not
Custom strapping and padding: Prevents movement for disassembled, partial, or vintage motorcycles
Space for extra parts: Includes boxed engines, wheels, or bodywork as long as all items are carefully listed in the shipment manifest
Australia’s biosecurity standards are some of the world’s toughest, but due diligence before shipping avoids delays and extra fees.
Full degreasing: Remove oil, mud, organic debris from frame, engine bay, undercarriage, airbox, and exhaust
Pressure wash wheels/wells: Eliminate any residual dirt or seeds
Engine and fluids: Drain fuel to <10%; seal oil lines and disconnect batteries
Photograph every step: Timestamped, high-res pictures are essential evidence for AQIS inspectors and save on arrival delays.
Vehicle Import Approval (VIA) via ROVER: Apply before shipping. Include title (or bill of sale), proof of age, and ownership. Flag non-running/project status clearly.
Asbestos-free declaration: All bikes, running or not, must be certified asbestos-free—test, report, and declare prior to export.
Consistency: VIN, engine, frame, and title info must exactly match the manifest—double check before submitting.
Australia allows imports for restoration or parts with tailored processes:
Restoration/project: You will need a VIA and, if you later intend to road-register, must bring the bike to full compliance after restoration.
Parts-only (dismantle): Parts-intended bikes need documentation showing destination (dealer, wrecker, or parts specialist). Usually exempt from registration/running requirements.
25-Year Rule: Bikes over 25 years old qualify for special import status, regardless of running condition.
AQIS/quarantine inspection is required for every imported motorcycle, and extra intense for projects/non-runners:
Expect a full inspection—spotless prep avoids the $300-$800 extra cleaning/re-cleaning fees on arrival
Even boxed or disassembled motors must be dirt- and oil-free
GST: 10% on the combined shipping, handling, and declared value
Import duty: 0% for all motorcycles
Non-runners intended for eventual registration will need restoration and state roadworthy inspection before hitting the road (requirements vary by state). For parts-only or collection display, provide a clear statement in your documentation; avoid any ambiguity that could cause customs or state registration issues.
Book with a container specialist: Ensure your shipper offers custom loading for non-runners—not all forwarders do!
Bulk ship if possible: Consolidating multiple project bikes or sharing a container saves hundreds per vehicle.
Work with certified cleaning and asbestos testing: Many U.S. shops now offer full Australia-ready bike prepping.
Never skip the VIA: Attempting to ship or receive a motorcycle in Australia without a valid import permit leads to costly storage and customs headaches.
Explore more about importing motorcycles, classic bikes, and project vehicles in our step-by-step Australia shipping guide.
For a full overview on all shipping scenarios, visit our main motorcycle and race car shipping guide.
West Coast Shipping handles every operational status, from pristine runners to basket-case projects—all at the same reliable container rate. Use our easy Australia motorcycle shipping hub to get a quote, checklist, and guidance on every step of your project import.