Car Shipping to Australia from the UK
Looking for reliable car shipping from the UK to Australia? Ascope Shipping provides RoRo and container vehicle shipping for cars, 4x4s, vans, classic cars and commercial vehicles. We arrange UK collection, export documentation, vehicle loading, sea freight and destination support for shipments to major Australian ports including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Fremantle.
Whether you are relocating to Australia, exporting a vehicle, buying or selling a car overseas, or moving a classic or specialist vehicle, we can help you choose the most suitable shipping method and arrange a tailored quote.
Methods of Car Shipping to Australia
We understand that every customer has unique needs and preferences. That’s why we offer a range of flexible shipping options to suit your specific requirements:
RORO CAR SHIPPING TO AUSTRALIA
RoRo car shipping is one of the most economical ways to ship a running vehicle from the UK to Australia. Cars, 4x4s, vans, buses, trucks, tractors, and other self-propelled machinery are driven directly onto specialised vessels, securely stowed during the voyage, and driven off upon arrival. This method is suitable for both new and used vehicles, and with RoRo shipping, you only pay for the space your vehicle occupies, making it an economical and efficient option.
CONTAINER CAR SHIPPING TO AUSTRALIA
Container shipping provides additional protection and flexibility for vehicles being shipped from the UK to Australia. It can be particularly suitable for classic, luxury, modified or high-value vehicles, non-running vehicles where appropriate, or customers shipping more than one vehicle.
Vehicles can be loaded into 20ft or 40ft containers, subject to vehicle dimensions and loading requirements. Container shipping can also be useful when personal effects or other permitted cargo are being shipped alongside a vehicle.
If you’re also sending household goods or personal effects alongside your vehicle, our container shipping to Australia page covers that.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car to Australia?
The cost of shipping a car from the UK to Australia depends on the vehicle, shipping method, departure port, Australian destination and the services required. RoRo is generally the more economical option for standard running vehicles, while container shipping can provide additional protection and flexibility for specialist vehicles or multiple vehicles.
For an accurate price, we recommend requesting a quote based on your vehicle and collection location rather than relying on a generic online price. We can provide a tailored quotation covering the shipping arrangements for your vehicle.
Get a Free Car Shipping Quote
How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car from the UK to Australia?
Sea transit times from the UK to Australia vary according to the departure port, Australian destination, shipping method and vessel schedule. As a general guide, allow around 6–10 weeks for the ocean shipping element, with the total process potentially taking longer when UK collection, export handling, customs, biosecurity inspections and delivery are included.
We confirm the current estimated transit time when preparing your quotation because sailing schedules can change.
For a more detailed breakdown, see our guide to how long it takes to ship a car from the UK to Australia.
Why Choose Ascope Shipping for Car Shipping to Australia?
Ascope Shipping has more than 15 years of experience arranging international vehicle transportation from the UK. We help private customers, businesses, dealerships and vehicle exporters move cars and other vehicles internationally.
Our team can assist with UK collection, export documentation, shipping arrangements, vehicle loading, marine cargo insurance and destination procedures. We work with experienced shipping and customs partners to help make the process as straightforward as possible.
- Over 15 years’ international shipping experience
- Many vehicles transported worldwide
- RoRo and container vehicle shipping
- UK collection options
- Support with export documentation
- Marine cargo insurance options
- Australian customs and biosecurity guidance
- Personal support throughout the shipment
Australian Car Import Requirements
Shipping vehicles across borders requires compliance with strict rules. Key requirements include:
- Import Approval: Vehicles imported into Australia may require approval before they are shipped. The requirements depend on the vehicle, its age, intended use and the circumstances of the import.
- Customs and Taxes: Imported vehicles may be subject to customs duties, taxes and other government charges. The amount payable depends on the vehicle and import circumstances.
- Biosecurity: Australia has strict biosecurity requirements. Vehicles should be thoroughly cleaned before shipping, particularly underneath the vehicle, around wheel arches and in areas where soil, seeds or organic material may be present as per Australian Department of Agriculture guidelines.
- Vehicle Compliance: Australian vehicle import and compliance requirements can apply depending on the vehicle and circumstances. Check the current requirements before arranging shipment.
For detailed information about documents, eligibility and importing a vehicle into Australia, see our Car Shipping Guide to Australia.
Car Shipping to Major Australian Ports
We arrange vehicle shipping from the UK to major Australian ports and can advise on the most suitable destination for your shipment.
- Sydney
- Melbourne
- Brisbane
- Fremantle (Perth)
What Happens When Your Car Arrives in Australia
Once your vehicle clears customs and biosecurity inspection, it’s released for collection or onward delivery to your address. Biosecurity checks are usually where unprepared shippers get caught out, a vehicle with soil, seeds, or plant matter in the wheel arches or undercarriage can be held back for cleaning at your expense. Follow our guide on how to prepare your car for overseas shipping before it ever leaves the UK, and you’ll avoid this entirely.
HOW TO PREPARE YOUR CAR FOR SHIPPING TO AUSTRALIA
Proper preparation reduces the risk of delays during inspection and loading.
Before your vehicle departs the UK, make sure to:
- Clean the vehicle thoroughly, inside and out, including the wheel arches and undercarriage to remove soil, seeds, or plant matter for Australian biosecurity requirements
- Remove all personal belongings
- Leave the fuel tank below a quarter full for safety during transit
- Check that the vehicle is in full working order, since a non-running car may require container shipping rather than RoRo
- Keep spare keys ready to hand over at collection
- Have your documentation organised and easily accessible for customs officials and port staff
WHAT CAN YOU LEAVE INSIDE A CAR WHEN SHIPPING TO AUSTRALIA
Certain items cannot be left inside the vehicle when arranging car shipping to Australia.
Restricted items include:
- Flammable liquids
- Hazardous materials or chemicals
- Undeclared household goods
- Soil, plant matter, seeds, or organic material, which are strictly controlled under Australian biosecurity rules
Removing restricted items ensures compliance with international shipping safety regulations and helps avoid delays during Australia’s biosecurity inspection.
FAQs About Car Shipping to Australia
How much does it cost to ship a car from the UK to Australia?
The cost depends on the vehicle, shipping method, departure port, Australian destination and the services required.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car to Australia?
Roll on Roll off (RoRo) service is the cheapest way to ship a vehicle compared to using container service.
How long does it take to ship a car from the UK to Australia?
Transit time is around 6 – 10 weeks depending on the shipping line.
Is RoRo or container shipping better for Australia?
Both RoRo and container have their own advantages and also depend on your budget, if you are just shipping a car, it is best to use RoRo service.
Can I ship a non-running car to Australia?
Yes you can but this can only be shipped using a container service.
Can I ship personal belongings with my car?
Cars shipped on RoRo cannot be loaded with items, only cars shipped using container service can be loaded with items.
What documents do I need to ship a car to Australia?
We will require a copy of the V5 document / log book for the car and purchase invoice where applicable.
What Australian ports can you ship a car to?
We ship to Brisbane, Fremantle, Melbourne and Sydney ports.
Does my car need to be cleaned before shipping to Australia?
Yes, according to Australian biosecurity requirements, the car needs to be thoroughly cleaned before it is loaded on the vessel.
Get in Touch
For a quick and accurate quote on shipping a car to Australia, simply fill in the enquiry form on this page. Our experienced team manages every step, from documentation and UK customs clearance to delivery at your chosen Australian port. Call us today at +44 7717 769925 or request a free, no-obligation quote online, and let our team guide you through a smooth, hassle-free shipping process from collection in the UK to arrival in Australia.
