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How to Ship Your Car from Singapore to Australia: Costs, Rules, and Tips

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Relocating to a new country is an exciting adventure. But along with shipping your household items, one question many people ask is: Should I ship my car overseas, or would it be better to buy one once I arrive?

If you’re moving from Singapore to Australia, this is an especially important decision. Cars in Singapore are costly due to the Certificate of Entitlement (COE), while Australia has different regulations, taxes, and road requirements. In this blog, we’ll walk you through how international car shipping works, what the costs look like, and whether it makes sense for your situation.

 

Step 1: Understand the Import Regulations

Before you commit, research the import rules of your destination country. Australia has strict requirements under the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts. You’ll need to apply for an Import Approval before your car even leaves Singapore.

Some key points:

  • Personal Import Scheme allows you to bring a car you’ve owned and used for at least 12 months.
  • Vehicles must comply with Australian Design Rules (ADRs) for safety and emissions.
  • Quarantine checks are mandatory – cars must be thoroughly cleaned to avoid bringing in soil, seeds, or pests.

 

Step 2: Choose Your Shipping Method

There are two main ways to ship a car from Singapore to Australia:

  1. Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo)
    • Your car is driven onto the ship and secured for the journey.
    • Usually the cheapest option.
    • However, you can’t load personal belongings inside the car.
  2. Container Shipping
    • Your car is loaded into a 20ft or 40ft container, either alone or shared.
    • More secure and allows you to pack some household goods with it.
    • Often more expensive than RoRo.

At CM Relocation, we usually recommend container shipping for moves to Australia, especially if you want added protection or to combine it with household shipping.

 

Step 3: Prepare Your Car for Shipping

A car can’t just be driven onto a vessel as-is. You’ll need to:

  • Clean the interior and exterior thoroughly (Australia is very strict on quarantine).
  • Drain most of the fuel (usually only a quarter tank is allowed).
  • Remove personal items unless you’re shipping via container.
  • Provide original documentation such as ownership papers, registration, and proof of use.

 

Step 4: Factor in the Costs

International car shipping is not cheap. For a move from Singapore to Australia, you can expect:

  • Shipping fees: Typically between SGD 2,500 – SGD 5,000 depending on the method and destination port.
  • Import duties and GST: Australia charges 10% GST on the Customs Value (which includes the car’s value, shipping, and insurance). Luxury cars may attract a Luxury Car Tax (LCT).
  • Compliance modifications: Some cars need adjustments (e.g., headlights, seat belts) to meet Australian standards.
  • Registration and licensing: You’ll need to register the vehicle once it passes inspection.

By the end, shipping and clearing your car in Australia can sometimes cost more than buying a good used car locally.

 

Step 5: Weigh the Pros and Cons

So, should you actually ship your car?

Reasons to Ship Your Car:

  • You own a high-value or luxury vehicle that would cost far more to buy in Australia.
  • Your car has sentimental value (e.g., a classic or collector’s car).
  • You’ve used the car for over a year and qualify under the Personal Import Scheme.

Reasons to Buy in Australia Instead:

  • Your current car is older or lower in value.
  • Compliance and modification costs will be too high.
  • You’d prefer a car suited to local driving conditions.
  • You want to avoid paperwork and wait times.

For many expats moving from Singapore to Australia, selling your car before the move and purchasing one locally turns out to be more cost-effective and hassle-free.

 

Alternatives to Shipping

If you decide not to ship your car, you still have options in Australia:

  • Buy a used car: Australia has a wide second-hand car market at competitive prices.
  • Lease or rent: If your move is temporary, leasing may be more practical.
  • Public transport: In major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, public transport is reliable and convenient.

Shipping your car internationally is possible, but it’s not always the smartest move financially. Before deciding, calculate the true cost of shipping, taxes, compliance, and registration compared to simply buying a car in Australia.

At CM Relocation, we’ve helped hundreds of families make this decision and can guide you through the process if you choose to ship. Whether you need door-to-door container shipping or advice on customs clearance, we’ll ensure your relocation is smooth from start to finish.

Thinking of relocating from Singapore to Australia? Book a free consultation with CM Relocation today to discuss your shipping needs – cars, furniture, and everything in between.