Checked against official sources on 12 October 2026. Rules change, so we confirm the details for your shipment when you book.
What MPI checks
Under MPI's import health standard, a vehicle or machine must be free of contamination inside and out. There's nil tolerance for live insects and spiders, animal material, standing water, embedded fungi, seeds and fresh plant material. Only a few loose dead leaves and a trace of soil are allowed before it's held for cleaning or treatment at the owner's cost.
Clean it in the week before collection, and keep it off dirt roads and grass afterwards. Re-contamination on the way to the port is a common cause of failure.
Cars, SUVs and utes
4WDs that have been off-road
Machinery, tractors and trucks
Used agricultural, forestry and earthmoving machinery is the most likely to be held, because soil and plant material get into places a quick wash won't reach. Budget for a thorough professional steam clean, with panels removed where needed.
If it fails
A contaminated vehicle is held at the port and cleaned or treated by an approved provider, then re-inspected. You pay for the cleaning, treatment and re-inspection, and it usually adds a few days. MPI's standard inspection fee for a vehicle under 3,500 kg arriving on a car carrier is already in our New Zealand local charges.
Stink bug season
From 1 September to 30 April, New Zealand applies extra measures for brown marmorated stink bug to vehicles and machinery from risk countries such as the USA, Canada, much of Europe and Japan. Australia isn't a risk country, so a vehicle shipped from Australia doesn't need stink bug treatment. A ship that called at a risk country earlier in its voyage can get extra checks on arrival, which can add a day or two.
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Common questions
What happens if my car fails MPI inspection?
It's held at the port, cleaned or treated by an approved provider at your cost, then re-inspected. Expect extra cost and a few days' delay.
Does a brand-new car need cleaning?
New vehicles are lower risk, but MPI can still inspect them. A demonstrator or a car that's been driven on dirt roads should be cleaned like any used vehicle.
Should I steam clean machinery before shipping?
Yes. Soil packs into tracks, belly pans and radiator cores where a hose won't shift it. A professional steam clean with panels removed is the best insurance against being held.
Are caravans different?
Caravans and motorhomes have their own risks: water tanks, the fridge and pantry, and the awning. See the caravan cleaning checklist.