Shipping a car from Canada to Australia costs CAD $4,500–$7,000 via container, with transit of 6–9 weeks from Vancouver (Pacific route). Halifax and Montreal are also used via the Panama Canal, adding approximately 2 weeks. Australia’s strict biosecurity regulations mean your vehicle must be thoroughly cleaned before arrival — a dirty vehicle will be held in Australian quarantine at your expense. Viamar manages the full process including AQIS coordination.
| Factor | RoRo | Container (20ft) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost (CAD) | $3,500–$5,500 + in-bond trucking | $4,500–$7,000 |
| Direct from Canada | In-bond trucking to US port required | Yes — direct from Vancouver, Halifax, Montreal |
| Personal effects | Not permitted | Up to 100 kg allowed |
| AQIS inspection risk | Higher — vehicle exposed during transit | Lower — sealed container reduces contamination |
Container from Vancouver is recommended for most Canadian shippers — direct schedule, lower AQIS risk, reliable weekly sailings.
Australia has some of the world’s strictest biosecurity regulations. AQIS inspects every imported vehicle for: soil, mud, or organic material in wheel arches and undercarriage; plant material (seeds, leaves, bark) anywhere on or in the vehicle; insects or nests in spare tire wells, under seats, and in air filters.
Before shipping, you must:
If AQIS finds contamination, the vehicle enters quarantine. Treatment costs AUD $300–$1,500+, plus daily storage fees. Prepare the vehicle as if it will be inspected at a museum — because it will be.
| Item | Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Ocean freight (20ft container — Vancouver) | $4,500–$7,000 |
| Canadian port handling & documentation | $300–$500 |
| Marine insurance (comprehensive ~1.5%) | $450–$900 |
| Australian import duty (5% of customs value) | Varies |
| Australian GST (10%) | Varies |
| AQIS inspection & port handling (AUD) | AUD $500–$1,500 approx. |
| Estimated total freight (before Australian duties) | $5,300–$8,400 |
Australian duties (5% duty + 10% GST = ~15% total) are paid in AUD on arrival. On a $30,000 CAD vehicle, expect approximately AUD $5,500–$7,000 in Australian taxes.
Canadian vehicles are left-hand drive. Australia drives on the left (RHD roads). LHD vehicles can be legally registered in Australia but may require an engineering certification confirming compliance with applicable Australian Design Rules. This is separate from customs clearance. Viamar’s Australian agent can advise on ADR compliance for your specific vehicle make and year.
How long does shipping take from Canada to Australia?
6–9 weeks from Vancouver via Pacific routing. From Halifax or Montreal via Panama Canal, allow 8–11 weeks. Add 1–3 weeks for Australian customs and AQIS clearance. Total door-to-door from GTA to Sydney: allow 10–14 weeks.
What Australian port will my car arrive at?
Main vehicle import ports are Sydney (Port Botany), Melbourne (Port of Melbourne), Brisbane (Fisherman Islands), and Fremantle (near Perth). Vancouver sailings typically serve Sydney and Melbourne. Viamar routes to the port closest to your final destination.
Can I ship a left-hand drive car to Australia?
Yes. LHD vehicles can be imported and registered in Australia. An engineering inspection may be required to confirm compliance with applicable Australian Design Rules. Some states are more strict than others. Viamar’s Australian partner agent can advise on state-specific requirements.
Is there a vehicle age restriction for importing into Australia?
Australia does not have a blanket vehicle age ban for personal imports. Vehicles built before 1989 may require additional ADR engineering assessment. Classic and vintage vehicles have a separate import pathway. Contact Viamar for specifics on your vehicle year and model.
