A transhipment is where a hazardous substance is imported into New
Zealand for the sole purpose of exporting it again within 20 working
days. This includes goods which remain on a vessel or craft (including
aircraft) or are put into storage prior to re-export.
Is your substance hazardous?
If your substance is not hazardous, you don’t need an approval.
Is your substance already approved?
If your substance is approved, you do not need a transhipment approval.
What if you intend processing the goods in any way, including repackaging?
If, upon importation, the goods are processed in any way, including repackaging, you need approval for importation, not transhipment.
How do you apply for transhipment approval?
To apply for a transhipment approval, send us the completed application form at least a month before the substance is to be transhipped.
Download Application Form
(word, 213 kb)
(pdf, 268 kb)
How much will a transhipment application cost?
The fee for this application is $287.50 (including GST).
How long will it take to process?
Transhipment applications are processed under the rapid assessment pathway and a decision is made within 10 working days.
Read the decision paths document (pdf, 943 kb)
Have you contacted the port(s) regarding any explosive substances?
Many ports require explosive substances to be off-loaded from the ship direct to a motor vehicle (DMV) for storage offsite.
Ensure your shipper contacts the port(s) to discuss off-loading, transport and storage requirements.
This needs to be done at least a month before the substance is loaded onto the vessel for transhipment.
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