If you’re eyeing a car in the US and wondering whether to ship it to Australia or just buy locally, you’re not alone.
With car prices fluctuating, shipping delays, and varying import laws, the question keeps popping up: Is it cheaper to ship a vehicle from the USA to Australia, or is it better to buy one once you're here?
This blog post dives deep into the true cost of vehicle shipping from USA to Australia versus buying locally—including all the hidden fees, regulations, and practical trade-offs.
Whether you're moving internationally, buying a rare car, or looking to save money, this guide will help you weigh your options clearly.
At a Glance: Shipping vs Buying in Australia
Not ready to dive into the details just yet? Here’s a snapshot summary of the key differences between shipping a car from the USA to Australia and buying one locally.
Shipping from the USA Pros:
Access to rare or specialty vehicles
Potential savings on specific models
Full knowledge of the car’s history (if it’s your own)
Shipping from the USA Cons:
High import fees and compliance costs
Longer waiting period
Risk of damage in transit
Buying in Australia Pros:
Instant access to the car
Warranty coverage
No import compliance issues
Buying in Australia Cons:
Higher price tags on popular models
Limited selection for certain makes or years
Bottom Line?
If you’re after a common car and want it quickly, buying in Australia is typically cheaper and easier. But if you're importing a specialty model—or found a great deal in the States—shipping could be the winner.
Want to dive deeper? Keep reading!
Understanding the Cost of Vehicle Shipping from USA to Australia
Before you make a decision, let’s break down the real costs involved in vehicle shipping from the USA to Australia:
1. Shipping Fees
Standard container shipping typically ranges from AUD $3,000 to $7,000, depending on:
Origin port (East vs West Coast USA)
Type of vehicle
Method (container vs roll-on/roll-off)
2. Import Duties and Taxes
Customs duties and taxes are unavoidable unless the vehicle meets specific exemptions (e.g., personal import scheme). You can expect to pay:
5% Import Duty
10% GST (on vehicle + shipping + duty)
Luxury Car Tax (if vehicle exceeds AUD $76,950 for fuel-efficient cars or $91,387 for others in 2025)
3. Compliance and Modifications
To be road-legal in Australia, your imported vehicle may need:
Conversion to meet Australian Design Rules (ADR)
Quarantine inspection and cleaning
Engineering reports or modifications
Cost: Anywhere from AUD $2,000 to $10,000 depending on vehicle and state requirements.
4. Registration and Insurance
Once it lands, you’ll need to pay for:
Roadworthy certificate
Registration fees
Stamp duty (varies by state)
Final Tally? Shipping a standard car could cost $10,000–$20,000 AUD all-in, depending on the car and compliance level needed.
Local Purchase: What’s Included in the Price?
Buying a car locally in Australia has a different cost structure—but fewer hidden surprises.
Included Costs:
Drive-away pricing (taxes and stamp duty often bundled)
Warranty (especially with dealers)
Consumer law protection
Road-ready with no compliance delays
Average Prices in Australia:
Common sedans: AUD $20,000–$35,000
Utes/SUVs: AUD $30,000–$60,000
Luxury/rare imports: AUD $60,000+
While Aussie prices are generally higher than the US due to taxes and demand, you're also avoiding the risk and lag time of shipping.
Quick Guide: Thinking About Importing? Read This First
A Real-World Scenario
Let’s say you’re moving to Australia and own a 2020 Ford Mustang GT in the US. It’s in great shape, and you love it. Should you ship it—or sell and buy a similar model in Australia?
Common Questions People Ask:
Will it meet Australian safety standards?
How long will it take to get on the road?
What if it needs major modifications?
Here's What to Consider:
1. Check Eligibility First: Use the RAWS or SEVS scheme to check if your car is allowed for import.
2. Get a Total Cost Estimate: Add up shipping, insurance, GST, compliance, and rego costs. Compare that to current Aussie prices.
3. Consider the Emotional Value: If it’s your car and you know its history, it might be worth the effort.
4. Watch for Delays: Shipping can take 6–12 weeks. If you need a car urgently, it’s not ideal.
Why It Works
Doing your homework now can save you thousands later—and avoid the heartbreak of importing a car that can’t legally hit Aussie roads.
Need help calculating your total shipping cost? Talk to a licensed import specialist before you commit.
FAQs: Vehicle Shipping vs Buying in Australia
Q1: Is it cheaper to import a classic or vintage car from the US?
Yes, in some cases. Classic cars may qualify for exemptions or reduced compliance requirements. However, always verify eligibility and modification costs before shipping.
Q2: How long does the shipping process take?
Typically 6 to 12 weeks, depending on port schedules, customs clearance, and inspection delays.
Q3: What are the most expensive hidden fees when importing?
Quarantine cleaning
Port handling fees
ADR compliance modifications
Luxury Car Tax (if applicable)
Q4: Are left-hand drive vehicles allowed in Australia?
Only under certain conditions. Most will need conversion to right-hand drive, which can be costly and complex unless exempt under classic car rules.
Q5: Is there any support for people moving internationally?
Yes. The Personal Import Scheme allows eligible individuals to bring one vehicle if they’ve owned and used it for 12+ months overseas. It can waive some duties and simplify compliance.
Conclusion: Which Option Is Right for You?
So—is it cheaper to ship or buy a vehicle in Australia? The answer depends on the car, your reason for importing, and how much risk you’re willing to take.
If you’re after a rare, classic, or specialty vehicle, shipping from the USA may offer better value—even after all the fees.
But for standard models, buying locally is typically cheaper, faster, and far less stressful.
No two situations are the same. If you’re leaning toward importing, run the numbers carefully, consider working with a registered vehicle importer, and make sure the car is eligible before committing.
Still unsure? Reach out to a vehicle import advisor or shipping agent for a personalized quote—they’ll help you avoid nasty surprises down the track.
