Importing Personal Effects in to Australia can be costly and stressful event. At Swift Customs Services Pty Ltd (SCS) we can assist with clearing your goods and liaise directly with authorities to secure the release of your cargo with the minimum of fuss. Our long established relationships with local Quarantine and Customs officials allow for smooth flow of information, giving clear details of what requirements must be met to allow the goods to be delivered.

Quarantine have determined that Personal Effects are a “high-risk” import and as such pay special attention to these shipments whether shipped by air or sea. Australia’s unique environment and important agricultural industries are free from many pests and diseases found in other parts of the world - but the movement of personal effects is one way these could be introduced. For example, outdoor furniture could harbour timber pests or be contaminated with soil or exotic weed seeds, while animal products such as meat, eggs, milk or cheese could contain diseases that could be transmitted to humans and other animals. AQIS - the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service - works to protect Australia’s natural and economic assets from these risks while facilitating the international movement of people and goods. If necessary, AQIS will undertake an inspection of your goods, treat items that could contain pests or diseases, or seize and destroy prohibited items. You may also choose to re-export items of value.

Common items of quarantine concern include:

Wooden items; food; soil on garden tools; vacuum cleaners with un-emptied dust bags; carpets; Christmas decorations; dried flowers; seeds; straws; skins; feathers; equipment used with horses or other animals; toys containing cotton waste, sand, straw or water.
With most cargo depot's now only offering minimal free time to collect your goods once arrived before they levy costly storage charges, prompt clearance and collection of your personal effects is essential to avoid further financial outlays. SCS is able to offer a complete door-to door concierge service with minimal input from the importer or alternatively we off various levels or pricing reductions allowing the importer to more active in the clearance process where budget constraints may apply.