Always check with a customs broker such as Synergy Freight Management about the nature of your goods prior to beginning the import process. 

Each item may have a different set of import requirements and your goods may require to be inspected upon arrival, fumigated or an import permit must be applicable otherwise your goods would be considered a prohibited import.

Customs clearance is the process of declaring your goods to the Australian Border Force and ensuring compliance with import regulations for the movement of cargo across the Australian border. It includes document verification, tariff classification, duty/GST calculations and inspection management. Synergy Freight handles all aspects to ensure smooth and timely clearance.

By law an owner of the goods is permitted to lodge their own customs entry to Australian Border Force although this is not an easy process unless you really understand the legal requirements. Instead by using the services of a licensed customs broker ensures your goods comply with Australian import regulations and prevents costly delays or penalties. We manage tariff classification, duty calculations, import permits and communication with the Australian Border Force on your behalf.

Common causes include incomplete documentation, incorrect tariff codes, missing import permits, quarantine risk items, underdeclared values, fumigation issues, no documentation and random inspections. We minimise delays by reviewing all documents before shiping and ensuring compliance.

You can avoid delays by ensuring accurate paperwork, checking import requirements, declaring correct values, and verifying supplier documents before shipping. Synergy Freight assists with document checks and regulatory compliance to reduce the risk of customs or quarantine issues.

These are the requirements imposed by the government body in charge of quarantine known as The Department of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries. Australia has strict biosecurity laws to protect against pests and diseases. The requirements cover any biosecurity risk that can harm Australia flora and fauna by concentrating on goods such as timber, food products, plant material, animal products, soil-contaminated items and packaging that may require inspection, treatment or certification. We guide you on what is allowed and help manage any required quarantine processes.

Yes — we assist with clearing international shipments coming through Australia Post when customs clearance is required. We handle duty/GST processing, import declarations and compliance checks.

If goods are held, they may require document submission, inspection, treatment (e.g., fumigation), or destruction if they do not meet import rules. We liaise with the Department of Agriculture on your behalf and coordinate any actions needed to clear your goods as quickly as possible

This depends on the type of goods, their value, origin country and the tariff classification. Many products attract duty plus 10% GST on the landed cost. We calculate duties/taxes accurately and advise on any applicable concessions or exemptions.

Anyone importing or exporting their goods through Australia, whether for personal or commercial use, they must still go through customs clearance.

The standards required documents include a bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, import permit (if applicable), and a packing declaration.

You can submit customs clearance documents electronically through the Integrated Cargo System (ICS) or use the services of a licensed customs broker such as Synergy Freight Management

A customs broker is a professional that is licensed to act as a broker between Customs authorities and the owner of the goods to help facilitate their cargo customs clearance through the Australian border.

It is not mandatory to use the services of a customs broker, as every owner of their goods is permitted to arrange their own customs clearance. 

Note: Using a customs broker will simplify the process dramatically, protect you from non-compliance with customs, help you avoid delays and additional charges.

The duration varies depending on factors such as the type of goods, completeness of documentation, and any inspections required. Typically, it can take a few hours to several days.

There are several types of Duties that apply depending on the type of goods being imported.

The general type of duty is customs duty and is usually calculated at 5% of the (FOB) Free On Board or (CVAL) Customs value of the goods. 

Some items are duty-free and pay zero duty on import and with the the help of a Customs broker like Synergy Freight Management, we can identify ways to help you avoid paying duty by applying Free Trade and other tariff concession methods.

The role of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry is to protect the biosecurity of Australian flora and fauna.