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Import from Europe to Australia – Focus Shipping

Europe is a key trade partner for Australia, with businesses regularly importing machinery, automotive parts, luxury goods, pharmaceuticals, food products, and industrial equipment from countries such as Germany, Italy, France, the Netherlands, Spain, and the United Kingdom.

At Focus Shipping Services, we provide reliable end-to-end freight solutions from Europe to Australia. Based in Melbourne, our team manages the entire logistics process — from supplier pickup in Europe to customs clearance and final delivery anywhere in Australia.

Cost of Shipping from Europe to Australia

Importing goods from Europe involves several cost components:

  • Freight Charges: Air freight, sea freight (FCL or LCL), or multimodal solutions.

  • Customs Duty: Typically around 5%, depending on the product classification.

  • GST (Goods and Services Tax): 10% applied to the customs value, including freight and insurance.

  • Free Trade Agreements (FTAs): Certain European goods may benefit from reduced or zero duty depending on trade agreements and rules of origin.

  • Additional Charges: Port handling fees, customs clearance costs, inspection fees, and inland transport.

For the most up-to-date duty rates and GST calculations, please check the official Australian Border Force website or speak with our customs brokerage team.

Air Freight from Europe to Australia

Air freight is the fastest way to ship goods from Europe.

  • Transit time: 3–8 days depending on route and carrier

  • Major European Airports: Frankfurt (FRA), Amsterdam (AMS), London Heathrow (LHR), Paris (CDG), Milan (MXP)

  • Best for: High-value goods, urgent spare parts, pharmaceuticals, fashion, electronics

  • Benefits: Speed, reliability, secure handling

Although air freight is more expensive than sea freight, it reduces transit time significantly for urgent shipments.

Sea Freight from Europe to Australia

Sea freight is the most cost-effective solution for bulk or non-urgent shipments.

  • Transit time: 30–45 days depending on origin port

  • FCL (Full Container Load): Ideal for large shipments

  • LCL (Less than Container Load): Cost-effective for smaller consignments

  • Major European Ports: Rotterdam, Hamburg, Antwerp, Felixstowe, Le Havre

  • Australian Ports: Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Fremantle, Adelaide

Focus Shipping works with leading European shipping lines to ensure competitive rates and consistent sailings.

Customs Clearance & Biosecurity

All goods entering Australia must be cleared through the Australian Border Force (ABF).

The process includes:

  • Lodging an Import Declaration

  • Payment of applicable duties and GST

  • Biosecurity inspection (if required)

  • Final release of goods

Products such as food items, timber packaging, machinery, and agricultural equipment may require additional inspection by the Department of Agriculture.

Our licensed customs brokerage team ensures full compliance and smooth clearance.

Why Choose Focus Shipping for Europe to Australia?

  • Melbourne-based Australian freight forwarder

  • Strong network across major European trade hubs

  • End-to-end logistics solutions

  • Licensed customs brokerage services

  • FCL & LCL flexibility

  • Transparent pricing and reliable communication

Ready to Import from Europe?

Whether you are importing industrial equipment, retail goods, or specialised products, Focus Shipping provides secure and efficient freight solutions from Europe to Australia.

Contact our Melbourne team today for tailored freight advice and a competitive quote.