What documents do I need to import goods into Australia?

Start with the invoice and transport document for your commercial shipment. The declaration and any additional documents depend on the goods, customs value and import conditions. Use the checklist to organise them and confirm any conditions shown.

Do I need a customs broker for Australian imports?

You can arrange your own clearance, although a licensed customs broker can help with classification, permits and declarations. Check whether your carrier has already arranged a SAC declaration for low-value cargo.

What is an N10 import declaration?

An N10 records goods being cleared into Australian home consumption. It is generally needed when the consignment's customs value exceeds AUD 1,000. Low-value cargo uses SAC pathways, with different arrangements where permits are needed.

When do I need a Certificate of Origin?

It depends on the agreement you claim under. Some accept certificates or declarations, while others allow a claim supported by origin information. Waivers may apply. Choose one eligible agreement and check its evidence rules before requesting a certificate.

What biosecurity documents do I need for food imports?

Check the BICON conditions for the specific food, its processing and origin. A permit or certificate is required only where those conditions say so. Food-safety inspection and certification requirements may also apply.

What biosecurity documents do I need for Australian imports?

Requirements depend on the goods, packaging and shipping arrangements. Containerised sea cargo may need packing statements. Commodity conditions may call for permits, certificates or treatment evidence. Follow the BICON and DAFF links for the conditions that apply.

What is BMSB season and how does it affect my shipment?

BMSB is the brown marmorated stink bug. DAFF publishes seasonal measures for specified goods and countries. Treatment depends on sea-cargo conditions and the shipped-on-board date; other goods may face inspection. Use the current season's guidance and confirm any exemption.

Import Document Checklist for Australia.

Get your import paperwork organised before your goods arrive. Find the documents to prepare, the conditions to confirm and the official guidance for your shipment.

How it works

Prepare your import documents in three steps.

Start with your goods and shipment details, then use the checklist to organise your paperwork.

Step 1

Choose your goods

Search by product description or HS code and select the matching tariff item.

Step 2

Add shipment details

Enter the country of origin, transport mode and any details needed to check conditional requirements.

Step 3

Prepare your paperwork

Review the documents, confirm any conditions and follow the official source links.

Common questions

Frequently asked questions.

Got your documents ready?

Bring your shipping documents into StarShipper to review extracted details and organise the paperwork for each shipment.

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Use this checklist to prepare your paperwork. Requirements depend on the goods and shipment details. Confirm current conditions with ABF, DAFF, the relevant agency or your customs broker before importing. A document on file has not been verified by this checklist.

N10 Declaration Estimator

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See exactly which fields your N10 Import Declaration needs, adjusted for transport mode and goods value.

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Landed Cost Calculator

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Calculate the total landed cost of importing goods into Australia — duty, GST, IPC, biosecurity, and FTA savings across 261 countries.

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