Guide to shipping to New Zealand from the USA

In 2024, the United States surpassed Australia as New Zealand’s second largest export market, with US exports valued at US$4.5 billion. This represents an increase of 3.2 percent ($138.8 million) from 2023.¹ To capitalize on this growth, a comprehensive understanding of international shipping services and customs regulations is needed. 

But first, how to ship a package to New Zealand? This guide is designed to answer this question and also equip US business owners with the knowledge needed to successfully ship to New Zealand. From local regulations and required documentation to logistics strategies, we'll cover it all step-by-step.

Market overview: Why ship to New Zealand?

New Zealand boasts a highly developed, resilient economy with a hunger for US exports tied to specialized technological imports, such as aircraft parts and medical apparatus, as well as American beverages and spirits. 

• Advanced Technology and Machinery: High-tech exports form the core of imports to New Zealand. 2024 saw US exports involving machinery, nuclear reactors and boilers valued at US$1.22 billion. Meanwhile, New Zealand imported US$929.31M worth of aerospace parts from the US in 2024.²
• Healthcare Technology: The healthcare technology market shows a strong appetite for US-made optical, photographic, technical, and medical apparatus. In 2024, New Zealand imported US$451.04M worth of healthcare tech supplies. 
• Food and Beverage: New Zealand imported US$492.13 million worth of agricultural goods from the US in 2024, which is significantly higher than 2023's total agricultural imports of US$409.17 million. Trade was driven by dairy, distillers grains, pork, fresh fruit and prepared food products.³
• E-commerce Landscape: While online shopping continues to grow, key data from 2024 indicates a clear shift towards lower-cost and value-driven shopping, resulting in smaller average transaction sizes but higher overall transaction volumes. US e-commerce businesses eyeing the market should include competitive pricing, robust loyalty programs, and personalized offers that clearly communicate value to the Kiwi consumer.⁴

How to ship to New Zealand

Shipping from the USA to New Zealand can be tricky. Navigating New Zealand Customs requires complete and accurate documentation to ensure efficient clearance. Reliable export services can facilitate compliance with customs regulations, and prevent costly fines or delays from occurring due to improper documentation.⁵

Key import documents

• Commercial Invoice: This document details the transaction between buyer and seller. It must include shipper and receiver details, detailed description of the goods involved, their corresponding Harmonized System (HS) codes, unit values, country of origin and the terms of sale (Incoterms).
• Packing List: This document lists the contents of each package in the shipment, including weight, dimensions, and markings. While not always mandatory for clearance, it is highly recommended as it aids customs during physical inspection.
• Certificate of Origin: This document certifies the country where the goods were produced. It is essential for claiming preferential duty rates under free trade agreements.
• Air Waybill: This document acts as a receipt and an agreement between the shipper and carrier. With DHL Express, you'll be able to create air waybills online, and ensure it contains all the information needed for smooth customs clearance.
• Insurance Certificate: International shipping involves substantial financial risks. An insurance certificate provides financial protection for your goods against loss or damage during long US to New Zealand shipping routes.
• Purchase Order: This document serves as essential documentation for both the buyer and seller. It helps customs verify the transaction details and value of your goods.

Customs regulations

• Biosecurity: New Zealand has extremely strict biosecurity laws to protect its unique environment. Failure to comply can result in significant fines and the destruction or re-export of the goods. Let’s take honey, for example. Only honey produced in New Zealand, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Pitcairn Island, Tonga, and Tuvalu are allowed entry into New Zealand. You’ll also need to provide a zoosanitary certificate issued by the veterinary authority of the exporting country.⁶
• De Minimis Value: Generally, if the value of the imported goods is NZ$1,000 (US$569.23) or less, no Customs Duty or GST is collected at the border. However, alcohol or tobacco shipments valued at below NZ$1,000 are still subject to import duty and GST.
• Prohibited and Restricted Items: Exporters must avoid shipping strictly prohibited goods such as controlled drugs, chewing tobacco, and dog tracking devices.⁷

Seamless shipping to New Zealand from the USA

International shipping to New Zealand involves long transits, which increases exposure of your goods to potential rough handling, accidents and undesirable environmental factors. Stellar packaging practices help ensure that your goods reach your customer in mint condition.

• Packaging: Use sturdy corrugated cardboard boxes and wrap individual items separately. Use ample cushioning (e.g., bubble wrap or eco-friendly fill) to prevent movement inside the box. For fragile items, ensure at least 5cm of protective material surrounds them.
• Clear Labeling: Accuracy is key to swift delivery. Labels must be clear, securely affixed, and include the complete recipient address, postcode, and a local New Zealand contact phone number. Don't forget to remove all old labels from reused boxes to avoid confusion.
• Delivery Expectations: Be proactive and transparent about shipping times. Offer your customers the option of real-time parcel tracking, which helps reduce anxiety and align expectations for delivery times. 
• Offer Sustainable Options: According to the Kantar and SBC Better Futures 2025 report, 60% of consumers in New Zealand are prepared to invest time and money to support companies with sustainable practices, while 49% have actively stopped buying certain products due to their environmental impact.⁸ Offering eco-friendly packaging options could boost your e-commerce business among environmentally-minded consumers.

International shipping to New Zealand simplified

Here's how DHL Express streamlines shipping to New Zealand from the USA.

• Customs Expertise: We keep your goods moving with our deep knowledge of international logistics and transportation regulations. We are also experienced in handling New Zealand's unique customs and stringent biosecurity regulations. Seamlessly navigate customs clearance, tariffs and HS codes with our expert support and tools like MyGTS.
• Reliable and Fast Delivery: Leveraging our extensive global network and dedicated air freight services, we are committed to fast and reliable door-to-door delivery, even when it comes to remote area shipping across New Zealand. We ensure your packages reach customers quickly and in optimal condition.
• Real-Time Tracking: Gain real-time visibility and control over every shipment using our advanced tracking capabilities. Online solutions like MyDHL+ provide a single platform for shipment creation, label printing, pickup scheduling, and proactive status notifications.
• E-commerce Solutions: Supplement your e-commerce courier services with DHL Express Commerce, which offers seamless integration with major e-commerce platforms and marketplaces, as well as inventory and warehouse management systems.

Ship to New Zealand with DHL Express

The New Zealand market's strong demand for US goods presents a wealth of opportunities for US businesses focused on global expansion. From digital tools designed to help you navigate the complexities of international trade, to logistical expertise that spans more than 220 countries and territories, DHL Express is here to help you take your business to the next level.

Register for a DHL Express business account today to reap the full benefits of shipping with us.