Should I bring a container or buy second-hand on arrival?
There are several things you should consider when looking at options: are you relocating permanently or temporarily, what costs are involved, do these items have emotional/sentimental value, or are they available or hard to find in Australia?
Research the availability and quality of goods in Australia. Some items might be more expensive or harder to find, which could impact your decision. For instance, if you have specific tools, furniture, or electronics that you prefer, bringing them with you might make sense, but again you should consider any difference in amperage or compatibility.
Consider the differences in lifestyle and climate between your current location and Australia. This might influence the types of clothing, appliances, and other items you'll need.
Shipping a container can take time, and there might be delays due to customs and other factors. If you need your belongings quickly upon arrival, buying locally might be more convenient. Otherwise you may find yourself having to buy locally anyway, and shipping goods that will arrive late and that you may no longer need.
In general, a mix of both approaches might be ideal. Bring essential and sentimental items that would be difficult to replace, while planning to buy larger or easily replaceable items locally. It's advisable to research thoroughly, seek advice from expats who have moved to Australia, and create a detailed budget to help you make the best decision for your situation.
What costs are involved in bringing household goods to Australia?
The cost of shipping a car and furniture to Australia can vary depending on several factors, such as the size and weight of the items, the mode of transport, the distance, and any customs duties or taxes that may apply.
As an estimate, the cost of shipping a car from South Africa, USA, or Europe to Australia can range from $3,000 to $8,000 AUD, depending on the size and type of the car, the mode of transport, and any additional services you may require, such as insurance or customs clearance. Consider the side of the road Australian drive on too... Aussies drive on the left!
The cost of shipping furniture can also vary depending on the volume and weight of the items, as well as the mode of transport and any customs duties or taxes that may apply. As a rough estimate, the cost of shipping a 20-foot container from South Africa to Australia can range from $4,000 to $8,000 AUD, depending on the size and weight of the items and the distance between the two countries.
It's important to note that these estimates are just rough guides, and the actual cost of shipping a car and furniture from South Africa to Australia will depend on several factors specific to your situation. It's a good idea to research your options, compare quotes from different shipping companies, and consider any additional costs, such as customs duties and taxes, before making a decision.
Restrictions on imports
There are restrictions on what items you can bring with you when travelling to Australia, as well as specific guidelines for shipping items in a container. Here's a general overview:
Bringing items with you to Australia:
- Personal effects such as clothing, toiletries, and other necessary items are generally allowed.
- Medications and prescription drugs can be brought with you, but you should check if they are allowed in Australia and if you need to bring a doctor's letter or other documentation.
- Some food items are prohibited, so it's best to check the Australian Department of Agriculture and Water Resources website for a complete list.
- Firearms and weapons are strictly prohibited.
- Some electronic items may need to be declared on arrival.
Shipping items to Australia in a container:
- You will need to provide detailed documentation for customs and quarantine purposes.
- All goods will need to be cleaned and free of dirt, soil, and other contaminants.
- Certain items, such as plants, food, and wooden items, may need special treatment or permits to be imported.
It's always a good idea to check with the Australian Department of Home Affairs and the Australian Department of Agriculture and Water Resources for the most up-to-date information on what items you can bring with you or ship to Australia.
Average prices of furniture and appliances in Australia
Here are some general estimates of the average prices of common furniture and appliances in Australia:
Furniture
Sofa: $800 - $2,500 AUD
Dining table: $500 - $2,500 AUD
Bed (queen size): $500 - $3,000 AUD
Wardrobe: $500 - $3,000 AUD
Desk: $200 - $1,000 AUD
Appliances
Refrigerator (standard size): $500 - $2,500 AUD
Washing machine: $400 - $2,000 AUD
Dryer: $500 - $1,500 AUD
Oven/stove: $600 - $3,000 AUD
Television: $300 - $3,000 AUD
Cars
Here are some general estimates of the average prices of new and used cars in Australia.
New cars
Small cars: $20,000 - $30,000 AUD
Mid-size cars: $30,000 - $50,000 AUD
Large cars: $50,000 - $100,000 AUD
Luxury cars: $100,000 - $300,000 AUD
Used cars
Small cars: $5,000 - $20,000 AUD
Mid-size cars: $10,000 - $30,000 AUD
Large cars: $20,000 - $50,000 AUD
Luxury cars: $50,000 - $150,000 AUD
