How is my Car valued for Customs?

Before reading further, check if you meet the criteria for GST exemption. The following information is only applicable if GST is payable.

When importing a car into New Zealand, NZ Customs accept two different methods for determining the value for Customs.. If you don’t have the Sales/purchase invoice, then a car valuation must be done on arrival in NZ. Thankfully Taurus Logistics can also arrange car valuations for you.

Copy of Sales Invoice (Bill of Sale)

If you have copies of the sales invoice from the company you purchased your car from, then these can be used as the “value for Customs”. Hand written, and private sales agreements are NOT accepted. However depending on how long you have owned the car for, this amount can be depreciated in your favour. Depreciation ranges from 13% - 75%. For example a $20,000 car which you have owned for 9 months can be depreciated by 35%, making the “Value for Customs” only $13,000. This considerably lowers the GST you would have to pay.

Period Of Ownership and Use Overseas

• Less than 90 days - 0%
• 3 months or more, but less than 4 months - 13%
• 4 months or more, but less than 6 months - 20%
• 6 months or more, but less than 9 months - 27.5%
• 9 months or more, but less than 1 year -  35%
• 1 year or more, but less than 2 years  - 50%
• 2 years or more, but less than 3 years - 60%
• 3 years or more, but less than 4 years - 70%
• 4 years or more - 75%

For more information on the depreciation amounts read our advice on private motor vehicle imports or calculate your Import GST with our handy GST Calculator.

Car valuation

If you don’t have the sales invoice as described above, then a car valuation must be obtained by a approved New Zealand registered company. Taurus Logistics can arrange a car valuation for you, and our valuations are accepted by New Zealand Customs.

For more information on how we can help you with your car valuation, please give us a call.