>> Everything You Need to Know About Customs & Shipping
Answers to Common Customs & Shipping Questions
Importing and exporting can come with a lot of unfamiliar terms and processes. Here are answers to the questions we're asked most often - if you don't see yours, get in touch and we'll walk you through it.
>> Category A
General Questions
1. What does a customs broker actually do?
A licensed customs broker manages the paperwork and compliance side of getting your goods into or out of Australia lodging declarations, liaising with the Australian Border Force and biosecurity authorities, and making sure your shipment meets all legal requirements.
2. Where is Barny Shipping based?
We’re based in Lidcombe, NSW, and coordinate clearance and freight for clients across Australia and overseas.
3. Do I need a customs broker to import goods into Australia
It’s not a strict legal requirement for every shipment, but if you’re new to importing, using a licensed broker is strongly recommended first-time or infrequent importers often run into avoidable delays without one.
4. What industries do you specialise in?
We specialise in the import and export of used vehicles, electrical and electronic appliances, clothing, spare parts, and food products alongside general commercial and personal shipments.
>> Category B
Vehicle Imports
1. Can you help import a used vehicle from overseas?
Yes vehicle imports are one of our specialities. We manage the compliance, paperwork, and clearance process required for used vehicles entering Australia.
2. What happens after my vehicle arrives in Australia?
Once cleared, we can coordinate road transport to deliver the vehicle to your address anywhere in Australia.
3. Do I need anything specific before shipping a vehicle?
Requirements vary depending on the vehicle and its origin get in touch before you ship and we’ll confirm exactly what’s needed for your situation.
4. Do you handle exports as well as imports?
Yes we assist with export documentation and customs compliance for goods leaving Australia, not just incoming shipments.
>> Category C
Customs Clearance Process
1. How long does customs clearance usually take?
Most clearances are completed within 24–48 hours once your documentation is complete and correct. Shipments referred for biosecurity inspection can take longer.
2. What documents do I need to provide?
Typically a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the goods, additional permits or certificates may be required we’ll tell you exactly what’s needed once we see your shipment details.
3. What happens if my paperwork is incomplete?
We’ll contact you directly to get whatever’s missing before lodging, so there’s no unexpected delay once your shipment reaches the port.
4. Can you clear goods that have already arrived in Australia?
Yes we can take over clearance at any stage, including shipments already sitting at the wharf or airport.
>> Category D
Biosecurity & Quarantine
1. What happens if my goods are held for a biosecurity inspection
Some goods are subject to biosecurity import conditions and may need inspection, treatment, or a permit before release. We liaise directly with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry to resolve this and keep you informed throughout.
2. Do food imports need special handling?
Yes food products often require specific biosecurity checks. This is an area we regularly manage, and we’ll confirm requirements for your specific goods before you ship.
3. How do I know if my goods need a biosecurity permit?
Import conditions vary by product some items need a permit, some don’t, and some aren’t allowed in at all. We check this for you before your shipment arrives, so there are no surprises at the border.
4. What should I do if my shipment requires biosecurity treatment?
If your goods require treatment as part of the biosecurity clearance process, we can coordinate with the relevant authorities and treatment providers to help arrange what is needed. We’ll keep you updated on any requirements, costs, and potential delays so you know what to expect before your goods are released.
>> Category E
Personal Shipments & Postal
1. Can you clear personal belongings I've shipped from overseas?
Yes we regularly handle personal effects, relocations, and items sent by post or courier.
2. I bought something online and it's stuck in customs can you help?
Yes, we can take over clearance of postal and courier shipments that have been held, including working out what’s causing the delay.
3. Do personal shipments go through the same process as commercial ones?
The core process is similar, but the paperwork required is usually simpler for personal, non-commercial items.
4. Can you help if my personal shipment is held by customs?
Yes. We can assist with personal belongings, online purchases, and other non-commercial shipments that have been held by customs. We’ll identify the reason for the delay, handle the required clearance process, and keep you informed until your goods are released.
>> Category F
Pricing & Getting Started
1. How much will clearing my shipment cost
It depends on the type of goods, shipment value, and whether inspection or permits are involved. Send us your shipment details and we’ll give you a clear, upfront quote before any work begins.
2. How do I get started?
Send us a message through our contact form, call us on 0433 691 589, or message us directly on WhatsApp whichever’s easiest for you.
3. Do you charge extra fees I should know about upfront?
No we outline all costs in your quote before we begin, so there are no surprise charges once your goods are already in the clearance process.
4. Will I receive a quote before you start clearing my shipment?
Yes. Once you provide your shipment details, we’ll assess the goods, value, and any potential inspection or permit requirements. We’ll then provide a clear, upfront quote outlining the costs before we begin, so you know exactly what to expect with no surprise fees.