How SeaCrate Shipping Works

Simple, transparent UK to Australasia shipping process from quote to delivery

The Complete Shipping Journey

Step 1: Get Your Quote (24 Hours)

What you do: Fill in our quote request form with details about what you're shipping, routes, and service level preferences.

What we do: Review your requirements, check current container availability, and send you a detailed quote within 24 hours. No hidden fees — everything clearly itemized.

Included in quote: Container shipping cost, marine insurance (up to £50k), customs documentation, port-to-port service

Step 2: Book & Prepare (1-2 Weeks)

What you do: Accept the quote and pay booking deposit (typically 50%). Prepare your cargo according to our guidelines.

What we do: Reserve container space, send you detailed preparation checklist (biosecurity requirements, documentation needed), and confirm loading/collection dates.

Key documents: V5 (vehicles), proof of ownership, export declaration, biosecurity cleaning certificate

Step 3: Loading & Port Delivery (1 Week)

What you do: Either deliver your cargo to the UK port (port-to-port), or we collect from your location (door-to-port).

What we do: Professional hand-loading into container, proper blocking and bracing, final inspection, container sealing, and delivery to port for loading onto vessel.

UK Ports: Southampton, Felixstowe, Tilbury (most shipments depart from Southampton or Felixstowe)

Step 4: Sea Transit (8-16 Weeks)

What happens: Your container is loaded onto vessel and begins sea transit to Australia or New Zealand. Transit time depends on route and port.

You receive: Container tracking number, sailing schedule, estimated arrival date, and regular updates on shipping status.

Transit times: UK to Sydney/Melbourne: 10-12 weeks | UK to Auckland: 12-14 weeks | UK to Brisbane: 11-13 weeks

Step 5: Customs Clearance (1-2 Weeks)

What happens: Container arrives at AU/NZ port and goes through customs clearance. Australian Border Force inspects documentation and may inspect cargo.

You do: Work with local customs broker (we can recommend partners) to complete import paperwork and pay any duties/taxes.

Important: Biosecurity inspection is strict. Proper cleaning avoids delays and £220+ fines.

Step 6: Collection or Delivery (1 Week)

What you do: Either collect your cargo from AU/NZ port (port-to-port), or we arrange delivery to your address (port-to-door).

Final payment: Balance payment due before collection/delivery (50% balance from booking deposit).

AU/NZ Ports: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth (Fremantle), Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch

Important Requirements

Biosecurity Compliance

Critical for Australia/NZ entry:

  • No soil, seeds, or organic material
  • Clean exterior and undercarriage
  • No timber infestation
  • Proper cleaning certification

We provide detailed cleaning checklist

Documentation

Required paperwork:

  • Proof of ownership (V5, title)
  • UK export declaration
  • AU/NZ import approval
  • Insurance documents

We guide you through every document

Insurance

Marine cargo insurance:

  • Up to £50k included
  • Higher coverage available
  • Proof of value required
  • Covers marine risks

Discuss your specific needs with us

Ready to Get Started?

Get your detailed quote and we'll guide you through every step of the process.

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