Everything you need to know about sending a parcel from the UK to Australia and New Zealand — shipping costs, biosecurity rules, customs, and expert tips for long-haul delivery.
Get a QuoteThe UK to Australia and New Zealand is one of the longest parcel routes in the world — and both countries enforce strict biosecurity rules. This guide covers what you need before you pack: transit times, GST at destination, customs declarations, and items that will be refused or destroyed at the border. Rates start from £5.99/kg (10kg minimum) or £5.50/kg for shipments over 20kg to either destination.
Before you book your shipment, here are the key things every sender should know:
Australia and New Zealand have some of the world's toughest biosecurity laws. Any organic material — food, seeds, plant matter, wooden items, soil — is subject to inspection and may be destroyed without notice. Never include these in your parcel.
The minimum chargeable weight is 10kg. Shipments of 20kg or more get a better rate. If your parcel weighs less than 10kg, you will be charged at the 10kg minimum.
All international parcels entering Australia and NZ are screened by border security. Parcels containing organic materials or items requiring inspection can be held for days or weeks. Ship early for any time-sensitive deliveries.
Australia charges GST (10%) on goods over AUD $1,000. New Zealand charges GST on goods over NZD $1,000. The recipient is responsible for paying these charges before the parcel is released by customs.
The UK to Australia is one of the longest shipping routes in the world. Use high-quality double-walled boxes, generous internal padding, and waterproof outer packaging where possible. Label your parcel clearly on all sides.
Any wooden items — including decorative wood, musical instruments, or furniture — may require a phytosanitary or heat treatment certificate to enter Australia or NZ. Check with the Australian Border Force before shipping.
Rates are based on actual or volumetric weight, whichever is greater. Use our volumetric weight calculator to check your parcel before booking.
Standard Rate
Minimum 10kg — Applies to both Australia and New Zealand
Bulk Rate
Minimum 20kg — Better value for heavier shipments
Both Australia and New Zealand have some of the world's strictest biosecurity and customs regulations. All international parcels are screened on arrival. It is essential to declare all contents accurately and to avoid sending any biosecurity-risk items such as food, plant material, or animal products.
Australia and New Zealand have uniquely strict biosecurity laws to protect their ecosystems. Many items permitted elsewhere are prohibited here. Always verify before shipping.
If you are unsure whether your item can be shipped, please contact our support team before booking.
Transit times to Australia typically range from 7 to 14 working days. Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne tend to be on the faster end. Biosecurity screening can add additional time, especially for parcels containing food or organic materials.
Yes. Parcel Horse offers the same rates for both Australia and New Zealand — £5.99/kg for shipments from 10kg, and £5.50/kg for shipments of 20kg or more.
All international parcels entering Australia are screened by the Australian Border Force. Parcels containing food, plant material, wood, or animal products face additional biosecurity checks. Prohibited items may be destroyed or returned at the sender's cost.
The minimum chargeable weight is 10kg at £5.99/kg. For shipments of 20kg or more, the rate drops to £5.50/kg. Parcels under 10kg will still be charged at the 10kg minimum.
Only commercially packaged, factory-sealed non-perishable food items are permitted. Fresh produce, homemade food, honey, seeds, and any unprocessed food items are strictly prohibited under Australian and NZ biosecurity law.
If the value of your parcel exceeds AUD $1,000, the recipient will be charged GST (Goods and Services Tax) at 10% in Australia. For New Zealand, GST applies to goods over NZD $1,000 in value. The recipient is responsible for paying these charges.
Yes. All shipments include end-to-end tracking. You will receive a tracking number by email once your parcel is collected, which you can use on our Track Shipment page to follow your delivery from the UK all the way to its destination.