Before reading further, check if you meet the criteria for GST exemption.
When importing a car into New Zealand, NZ Customs accept two different methods for determining the value for Customs. If you don't have the bill of sale/purchase invoice, then a car valuation must be obtained. Thankfully, Taurus Logistics can also arrange car valuations for you.
Copy of Sales Invoice (Bill of Sale)
If you have copies of the bill of sale/purchase invoice from the company you purchased your car from, then this can be used as the "value for Customs". If the vehicle was purchased privately, we can use a hand-written document so long as the date, seller, buyer, full vehicle details (including VIN) and purchase price are shown. You may be asked to provide a bank statement or other evidence to confirm the purchase price. Depending on how long you have owned the vehicle, we will depreciate the purchase price in line with NZ Customs guidance.
Car valuation
If you don’t have the sales invoice as described above, then a car valuation must be obtained by an approved New Zealand registered company. Taurus Logistics can arrange a car valuation for you, and our valuations are accepted by New Zealand Customs.
Obtaining a valuation is very easy using our online form Import Customs Valuation
Depreciation
From 1 March 2020, New Zealand Customs will follow the Straight-Line rate used by Inland Revenue where depreciation is applicable when valuing imported used vehicles. The rates used by Inland Revenue are based on the estimated useful life of the vehicle.
Period Of Ownership and Use Overseas
- Less than 90 days - 0%
- 3 months or more - 1.75% per month aggregated
- Every year after 12 months an ADDITIONAL - 21%
- Maximum depreciation - 75%