Advice On Importing A Boat

scubapro · #1 18-07-2012, 02:18 AM

Hi all - I would like some advice from people who have imported boats before, as I would like to import a Quintrex 470 Top Ender and a Quintrex trailer (both aluminium - no wood items).

The boat/trailer were bought in Australia by my father in 2010 and taken overseas, now he is moving away to another coutry with no sea and he wants to send me the boat to Australia.

The boat would be arriving at the Port of Darwin. Does anyone recommend a broker from Darwin? I have been dealing with the agent from the transport company but he seems quite unprofessional, unclear and difficult to deal with... which is making me worry.

What I am looking for is to know the steps and costs to get the boat from the transport ship to a location where i can pick it up (port charges, storage, fumigation, AQIS inspections, customs, trailer import permit, etc...).

Am I able to import with the boat other accessories (life jackets, anchor, etc), and what about fishing gear (rods, reels, lures, tackle boxes, etc)?

Now, since the boat is a gift, how would this affect the 5% Import Tax and 10% GST payable? Any advice as to how can i get around having to use a surveyor to identify the current 'price' of such boat in Australia? Maybe doing a relatively cheap 'contract' with my father, or pretend that my girlfriend is buying it from my father (to avoid any connection between them)? I have payed enough taxes as it is to having to pay more now - so I'm looking at paying the least tax.

Any assistance would be much appreciated!! Thanks

Ian Sewell · #2 18-07-2012, 10:42 AM

Most of your info can be answered on this website , http://www.customs.gov.au/site/page4226.asp
or give them a call and I am sure they will be able to help you out, you will have to fill in the paperwork at some time anyhow and they will be able to send it or you can download it.

Some one else may be able to recomend a broker?

Danmaso · #3 18-07-2012, 06:18 PM

fly over to where the boat is, offer a few people a ride to australia for a few thousand dollars, and drive it here, seems to work for a lot of people, with less seaworthy vessels...

rodmy · #4 18-07-2012, 10:11 PM

Very complex situation you have. Importing an Australian boat to Australia. Should not have to pay duty if because you are bringing you property home.

Keep in mind that you will incur shipping/port charges around $5000. Maybe you may have to pay to transport to Darwin from a bigger port eg Brisbane expect, I know that form Melbourneto Darwin costs well over $2000.

should chat with a boat importer like Ian at Import a boat from USA.com.au