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First-Time Importer Guide

Everything you need to know before importing goods into Australia for the first time. Covers registration, documentation, customs procedures, and common mistakes.

Last reviewed: 2026-03-10

Before You Import

Importing goods into Australia for the first time can feel overwhelming, but the process becomes manageable once you understand the key steps and who is responsible for what. This guide walks you through the process from initial registration to receiving your goods.

The first step is getting your Australian Business Number (ABN). You need an ABN to import goods commercially, and it is used to identify you in the customs system. If you are importing as a business, you should also register for GST, which allows you to claim import GST as an input tax credit.

You will also need to understand your obligations under Australian biosecurity law. The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) controls what can enter Australia from a biosecurity perspective. Certain goods — including food, plant products, timber, animal products, and soil — are subject to inspection and may require import permits.

Finding and Choosing a Supplier

Choosing the right overseas supplier is as important as getting the customs process right. When evaluating suppliers, consider not just the unit price but the total landed cost — including freight, insurance, duty, and GST. A slightly more expensive supplier in a country covered by an Australian free trade agreement could actually cost you less once duty savings are factored in.

Ensure your supplier can provide proper commercial documentation. At a minimum, you will need a commercial invoice, packing list, and evidence of origin (for FTA claims). The commercial invoice should clearly state the goods description, quantity, unit price, total value, Incoterms, and the country of origin.

Agree on the Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) that will govern the transaction. The most common for Australian imports are FOB (Free on Board) — where the seller is responsible for costs until the goods are loaded on the vessel — and CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) — where the seller also covers freight and insurance to the Australian port. Understanding Incoterms helps you know exactly where your responsibilities begin.

Engaging a Customs Broker and Freight Forwarder

For your first import, using a licensed customs broker is strongly recommended. A good broker will guide you through the entire process, handle the complex paperwork, and help you avoid costly mistakes. The brokerage fee is a small fraction of the total import cost and provides significant peace of mind.

You will also need a freight forwarder to arrange the physical transport of your goods from the supplier's location to yours. Many customs brokers also offer freight forwarding services, which can simplify the process by giving you a single point of contact. Otherwise, your broker and freight forwarder will coordinate between themselves.

When choosing a broker, look for one with experience in your specific commodity type. Customs requirements vary significantly between product categories, and a broker who knows the regulations for your type of goods will add the most value. Ask for a complete fee breakdown upfront so there are no surprises.

The Import Process Step by Step

Once your goods are manufactured and ready, your freight forwarder arranges the shipment. They will book space on a vessel (for sea freight) or with a carrier (for air freight), and handle the transport documentation including the bill of lading or airway bill.

While the goods are in transit, your customs broker prepares the import declaration. They will classify the goods (assign the correct tariff code), determine the customs value, calculate the duty and GST payable, and check whether any permits or certificates are required.

When the vessel or aircraft arrives in Australia, the carrier reports the cargo to the ABF. Your broker lodges the import declaration through the Integrated Cargo System (ICS). If the ABF is satisfied with the declaration and no inspection is ordered, the goods receive an "authority to deal" — meaning they can be collected from the port or depot.

You or your freight forwarder then arranges the final delivery of the goods from the port to your premises. For sea freight containers, you typically have a limited number of free days at the port before container detention charges begin, so prompt clearance and collection are important.

Common Mistakes First-Time Importers Make

Underestimating landed costs is the most common error. Many first-time importers focus on the unit price from the supplier and forget to factor in freight, insurance, customs duty, GST, broker fees, port charges, and local delivery. The landed cost can be 30% to 50% or more above the FOB purchase price.

Failing to check biosecurity requirements before ordering is another frequent mistake. If your goods contain or are made from regulated materials (timber, animal products, plant-based materials, food), DAFF may require inspection, treatment, or an import permit. Discovering this after the goods arrive causes delays and additional costs.

Not verifying FTA eligibility with proper documentation leads to missed duty savings. If your goods are eligible for a preferential duty rate under a free trade agreement, you need a valid certificate of origin from the supplier before the goods arrive. Applying for one retroactively is possible but slower and more difficult.

Ignoring packaging requirements is a trap for first-timers. Wooden packaging (pallets, crates, dunnage) must be ISPM-15 treated and marked. Untreated timber packaging will be fumigated at the importer's expense or the goods may be re-exported. Specify to your supplier that all timber packaging must comply with ISPM-15.

Official Sources

Verify the information in this guide against these official government resources.

Frequently Asked Questions