Importing Orders Over NZD $1,000 into New Zealand: Spool Imports Customer Guide

Importing Orders Over NZD $1,000 into New Zealand: Spool Imports Customer Guide

If you are a New Zealand customer ordering performance engine parts from Spool Imports in Australia, most of your shipments clear Customs without you needing to do anything extra. However, once the total value of your order goes over NZD $1,000, New Zealand Customs requires an additional step before your parcel can be released.

The good news is that the process is straightforward, completely online, and you only need to do it once. This guide explains what happens behind the scenes when you place a high-value order with Spool Imports, and how to make sure your pistons, conrods, studs and rebuild kits arrive without delay.

Why Orders Over NZD $1,000 Are Treated Differently

New Zealand Customs uses a NZD $1,000 import threshold. When the value of your shipment (including goods, freight and insurance) goes over this amount, Customs requires:

  • Your NZ Customs Client Code (your personal importer number)
  • A formal Customs Import Entry for the shipment
  • GST to be paid before the parcel is released

For Spool Imports customers, the import entry is usually handled by the courier (commonly DHL Express or Australia Post / NZ Post). The only part you must take care of yourself is obtaining your Client Code from New Zealand Customs.

Spool Imports charges in AUD, but New Zealand Customs looks at the value converted into NZD at their assessed exchange rate. If that value is over NZD $1,000, the process in this article applies.

Step 1: Apply for Your NZ Customs Client Code

A Client Code is a unique number that identifies you as the importer of the goods. You only need to apply once, and you can then reuse the same code for all future shipments over the threshold from Spool Imports or any other overseas supplier.

How to apply

To register as a client with New Zealand Customs, you complete their online Client Registration (NZCS 224) form. The process is:

  1. Visit the New Zealand Customs website and open the Client Registration (NZCS 224) form.
  2. Enter your personal details exactly as they appear on your identification.
  3. Upload your verification documents, typically:
    • Photo ID such as a passport or New Zealand driver licence
    • Proof of address, for example a bank statement or utility bill
  4. Submit the form online for processing.

How long approval takes

In most cases, Customs processes Client Code applications within 1 to 2 working days. Your code is sent to you by email. Once you have it, keep it somewhere safe because you will use it for future orders over NZD $1,000.

Tip: Apply for your Client Code as soon as you place a high-value order with Spool Imports, or even earlier if you know you will be buying a full rebuild kit or multiple sets of parts. That way, the code is ready as soon as your shipment reaches New Zealand.

Step 2: Your Courier Prepares the Import Entry

When your Spool Imports order arrives in New Zealand, the courier (for example DHL Express or NZ Post) starts the Customs clearance process. They will:

  • Assess the value of the shipment and confirm that it is over NZD $1,000.
  • Prepare and lodge the Customs Import Entry electronically with New Zealand Customs.
  • Contact you if they need your Client Code or any other information.

If the courier already has your Client Code on file, they will usually proceed without needing to contact you. If not, you will receive an email or text message asking you to supply your code. You do not normally need to speak with Customs directly; the courier handles the paperwork for you.

Step 3: Paying GST and Clearance Fees

For shipments over NZD $1,000, New Zealand Customs will charge:

  • 15% GST on the value of the goods, plus freight and insurance
  • A small Import Entry Transaction Fee (IETF) and related charges

Most performance engine components shipped by Spool Imports, such as pistons, conrods and head studs, are generally duty-free, so you are usually paying GST and the Customs entry fees only. The courier will send you a breakdown of the charges and a secure way to pay online.

Once payment is made, the courier finalises clearance and your shipment is released for delivery.

Step 4: Delivery Timeframes from Spool Imports to New Zealand

After Customs clearance, your parcel moves back into normal courier operations. Typical timeframes for Spool Imports shipments to New Zealand are:

  • Dispatch from Spool Imports (Australia): usually within standard handling time.
  • Transit to New Zealand: approximately 2 to 4 working days with express services, depending on your location.
  • Customs clearance: often the same day GST is paid, provided your Client Code is in place.
  • Final delivery: typically within 24 hours of clearance.

Example timeline for a typical order over NZD $1,000

  • Day 1: You place an order on the Spool Imports website and we dispatch via DHL Express.
  • Day 2–3: Your shipment arrives in New Zealand. The courier contacts you if they need your Client Code.
  • Day 2–3: You provide your Client Code and pay the GST and fees online.
  • Day 3–4: Customs clearance is completed and your order is delivered to your door.

Tips for New Zealand Spool Imports Customers

  • Apply for your Client Code early. Do this before or at the time you place your first large order.
  • Use consistent details. Make sure the name and address you use for your Spool Imports order match the details you provide to New Zealand Customs.
  • Keep your Client Code handy. Store it somewhere safe so you can quickly provide it to the courier when needed.
  • Watch your email and phone. Courier requests for your Client Code or GST payment usually arrive as email or text messages and can be actioned quickly.

Ordering High-Value Performance Parts from Spool Imports

Ordering performance parts from Spool Imports in Australia for delivery to New Zealand is straightforward, even when your order total is over NZD $1,000. The key is to have your New Zealand Customs Client Code ready and to respond promptly when your courier contacts you about GST and Customs charges.

Once that is done, your pistons, conrods, studs and rebuild kits will move through the system quickly so you can get on with your engine build without unnecessary delays.