Shipping USA to Australia

[ajaxer]

I searched and searched for any posts here about shipping from the USA to Australia and there seems to be nothing so here is what I found out on my own recently.

Shipping from Los Angeles to Sydney,
one motorcycle of about 4 cubic metres including crating.

Airfreight - approximately US$3,600
Seafreight - approximately US$1,400

Both methods had lots of port charges, documentations, and other fees.
I sought and received 5 quotes, some companies only did sea, others did both. None of the quotes included the charges at the Australian end.
I have found out that costs at the Sydney end will be up AU$1000.

Companies who quoted were:

Core Nautical Group
GoLogistics Group
ShipMyBike
Momentum Global Logistics
Schumacher Cargo Logistics

I finally selected GoLogistics as they were the cheapest, could crate the bike and as they are based in AU/NZ they were easy to deal with and understand that end well. I can even pay in AU dollars which saves on exchange rates.
It will take between 20-30 days I believe though I have not yet received dates from the company.

[RogerM]

Have a look at this thread http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hub...elbourne-50459 You can self clear the bike through customs and quarantine yourself, the thread gives some detail about how to do it.

Just make sure you have the bike absolutely spotlessly clean for quarantine purposes.

Some customs agents have learned that its very easy to make an additional $500 out of visitors by claiming the bike failed quarantine - so clear it yourself.

You need to get hold of a copy of the NSW Road Traffic Authority's regulations about NOT requiring any additional permits or insurance to show to any coppers who decide to stop you.

[mudmaps]

Did you try Expediters?

I think they're in Melbourne and just did some hot air balloon transport for us to and from Hungary for A$600 return.

[ajaxer]

@rogerM - yes I read that thread and will certainly be attempting to do my own clearance. Very useful information.

@mudmaps - no I didn't find Expediters, have committed to GoLogistics now. Lots of other such companies out there, I'm sure, but perhaps not so easily found.

This thread might help others when they check it though.

[ajaxer]

@Old Swiver - yes I did try Qantas, I sent an email to the LAX freight office and received the following reply:

Thank you for Your inquiry, Due to the current security procedures and restrictions, We are unable to accept shipments from general public for transport. I recommend using Federal Express, United Parcel Service or any Freight Forwarder.I am also providing with one agent in the Los Angeles area, Consolidators International 310 649-6160 www.cii-usa.com

The Consolidators appeared to be a website where other freight forwarders could bid for a job. Ever since putting my details in there I have been receiving several emails asking for my business. Have had to unsubscribe to lists to get them to stop.