1. Obtain Import Approval for Boats with Trailers
Boats being imported do not require an import approval. However, if your boat comes with a trailer, an Import Approval from the Department of Infrastructure is mandatory. This applies to all types of trailers, including those for recreational boats.
Why is this important?
- Without an approved import permit, your boat will not be released from the port upon arrival.
- You may incur costly storage fees, which can add up to thousands of dollars.
💡 PRO TIP: Plan ahead! Delays in obtaining this permit can cost thousands in mooring and storage fees. Get your approval before shipping to prevent costly setbacks.
Learn more about our international boat shipping services here. We handle the import approval process, customs clearance, and logistics, ensuring your boat arrives smoothly and without costly delays.
2. Ensure GST & Duty Are Paid Correctly
Your boat, like any other asset, may attract GST and duty fees when being imported into Australia. These can vary depending on the boat’s value, age, and where it was manufactured.
Let’s break it down:
- GST (10%) applies to all imported boats and is calculated based on the price paid, as verified by the Bill of Sale.
- Import duty rates depend on the country of manufacture, as specified in the Certificate of Origin:
- USA-manufactured boats are duty-free if they have the correct Certificate of Origin.
- Boats from other countries may incur applicable duty charges.
💡 PRO TIP: Unsure how much GST and duty you’ll need to pay? Use MCC World International’s GST Calculator to get a quick estimate and avoid unexpected costs.
3. Understand Quarantine Requirements
All used boats being imported into Australia are subject to strict Quarantine inspection upon arrival. In practice, this means that upon arrival, your boat will be assessed for cleanliness and may also be subjected to further inspection by quarantine officers.
If you fail to meet Quarantine requirements, your boat may be:
- Denied entry
- Subject to costly cleaning and fumigation fees
- Delays
To avoid unnecessary expenses, your boat must be thoroughly cleaned both inside and out before shipping. This is especially important for boats used in saltwater, as they are more likely to accumulate barnacles, algae, and organic material that could lead to a failed quarantine inspection.
4. Ensure Your Boat’s Cradle Meets Biosecurity Standards
If your boat is not on a trailer, it must be secured on a custom cradle for safe transport. However, boats arriving in non-compliant wooden cradles must be fumigated or destroyed before being released from quarantine.
At MCC World International, we can arrange for your boat to be secured onto a compliant steel cradle before shipping. This ensures your boat meets all biosecurity standards, avoiding unnecessary delays or destruction upon arrival in Australia.
💡 PRO TIP:Most timber racks require fumigation, which incurs additional fees separate from freight charges.
5. Thoroughly Clean Your Boat to Pass Quarantine
To prevent quarantine issues and unexpected costs, your boat should be squeaky clean before shipping. Here’s how you can ensure your boat is compliant:
Exterior Cleaning:
- Use a high-pressure wash on the trailer to remove all dirt, mud, and organic material.
- Ensure the hull is spotless, with no barnacles, algae, or plant matter.
- Use a power wash or scrubbing brush to remove any stubborn build-up.
Interior Cleaning:
- Vacuum all surfaces, including storage compartments, hatches, and machinery areas.
- Clean and dry the engine bay and bilges completely to prevent quarantine issues.
- Remove any debris, leaves, or organic residue from inside the boat.
Washing Costs at the Loading Port
If a boat is excessively dirty, it may not be accepted for loading onto the ship. In this case, a professional cleaning service may be required to bring the boat up to quarantine standards. This can be a costly expense, so it is essential to thoroughly clean your boat before arriving at the loading port.
If you’re unsure about the cleaning process, MCC can guide you on quarantine requirements and help ensure your boat is properly prepared before shipping.
💡 PRO TIP: Ask the seller to provide photos and videos of key areas such as the boat’s exterior, hatches, and machinery spaces to verify its cleanliness before it departs.
6. Choose the Right Shipping Method
MCC’s freight forwarders offer various sea freight shipping methods to cater to your specific needs and budget. These include:
- Roll-on/roll-off: Your boat is driven onto a specialised vessel and secured in place for transport. (eg. Heavy Haulage or any industrial machinery)
- Lift-on/lift-off: A crane lifts your boat onto a specialized vessel for transport.
- Container shipping: Your boat is loaded into a container, then loaded onto a ship for transport. (Shipping retail goods such as textiles, and upholstery)
💡PRO TIP: Speak with our freight experts to determine the most suitable shipping method for your boat based on its size, weight, and destination.
7. Secure & Prepare Your Boat for Transport
In addition to just cleaning, there are other ways to prepare your boat to minimise shipping costs. This helps to lighten the load, reduce overall dimensions, and prevent potential damage during transit.
Outside Your Boat:
- Remove bulky parts (e.g., swim platforms, radar arches, flybridges) to reduce shipping costs.
- Secure all hatches with tape to prevent water from entering.
- Tie down all loose items like sails, ropes, and fenders.
Inside Your Boat:
- Remove all valuables, including electronics, personal items, and non-secured accessories.
- Drain all water tanks and reduce fuel to no more than 1/4 full to minimise weight and comply with transport safety regulations.
- Pump out holding tanks and flush with freshwater to prevent odors.
- Secure all loose items, as rough seas can cause significant damage if objects shift during transport.
- Drain the bilge completely, as standing water is a biosecurity risk and could result in quarantine issues upon arrival.
- Disconnect the battery and tie off cables securely to prevent accidental contact or power drainage.
💡 PRO TIP: Ask the seller to provide photos and videos of key areas such as the boat’s exterior, hatches, and machinery spaces to verify its cleanliness before it departs. It could save you potentially thousands in cleaning and quarantine fees.
8. Consider Taking Out Marine Insurance
Marine insurance isn’t automatically included in shipping costs, and standard road insurance won’t cover transit-related damage. To protect your vessel from unforeseen risks such as accidents, weather damage, or handling issues, it’s crucial to have the right coverage in place.
💡 Get a quick marine insurance quote—contact our experts today!
