We personally bought the basics with us, beds, furniture and personal belongings which all fitted into a 20ft container, no need for wardrobes as they are generally built-in in Oz.
When arranging your shipping I would recommend getting quotes from as many different companies as possible. Ask for a door to door price, as some will quote you for delivery to the receiving agent and you will then have to pay extra for your goods to be delivered to your house.
Definitely have your belongings professionally packed by the shipping company and take out their recommended insurance. You may not be covered if you pack goods yourself and your crystal or china cannot easily be replaced once you are here.
Make sure that the agent informs you which items are more difficult to import, such as cane or wicker goods. Also any gardening equipment or items which have been in contact with soil must be steam cleaned before shipping. That includes shoes!
These details are important as they will save you a lot of stress and money when you shipment goes through customs clearance and quarantine inspection.
AQIS ( Australian Quarantine Inspection Service ) screen all shipping documents for material that may present a risk to the Australian environment. This includes plant or animal based materials such as soil or food products.
AQIS charge for the inspection and may also direct items for treatment which are an extra charge.
If possible bring you car with you!
Cars are really expensive over here and generally have really high mileage. You must have owned your vehicle for over a year and it should be of a standard specification, with no modifications.
I would ask your shipping agent who will have the latest government regulations. Go to www.redbookasiapacific.com.au to check out the retail prices.
A Holden is a Vauxhall.
A Ford is a Ford.
A ute is a utility vehicle.
Classic cars are really sought after so seriously consider bringing it as it will fetch good $$$$$’s!
sklinky