Shipping vehicles from the United States to New Zealand continues to grow in popularity due to strong demand for American cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, motorcycles, and heavy machinery. One of the most efficient and cost-effective methods for transporting vehicles across long distances is RORO (Roll-On/Roll-Off) shipping. Whether you are relocating, exporting dealership inventory, or shipping commercial equipment, RORO provides a reliable and straightforward solution.
At All Transport Depot, we specialize in international vehicle and machinery logistics, offering secure and affordable RORO shipping from major U.S. ports to New Zealand. With experienced export specialists, competitive pricing, and scheduled sailings, we manage every step of the process—ensuring your shipment arrives safely and on time.
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Why Choose RORO Shipping to New Zealand?
RORO shipping is one of the most practical methods for exporting vehicles to New Zealand. Vehicles are driven directly onto specially designed vessels, secured during transit, and driven off upon arrival—minimizing handling and risk.
Key Advantages of RORO Shipping
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Cost-effective: Typically cheaper than container shipping
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Fast port handling: Efficient loading and unloading
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Lower risk of damage: No cranes or container lifting
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Suitable for all vehicle types: Cars, SUVs, trucks, buses, motorcycles
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Ideal for heavy machinery: Construction and agricultural equipment
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Best for running vehicles: Non-running units accepted with extra cost
For most vehicle exports, RORO offers the best balance of affordability and efficiency.
Major U.S. RORO Export Ports
Vehicles bound for New Zealand depart from several major U.S. ports. Selecting the right port helps reduce inland transport costs and improves transit efficiency.
Popular U.S. RORO Ports
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Los Angeles / Long Beach, CA – Most common for New Zealand routes
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Oakland, California
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Tacoma, Washington
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Houston, Texas
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Galveston, Texas
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Jacksonville, Florida
How to Select the Best Port
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Choose the closest port to your vehicle’s location
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West Coast ports offer the most direct sailings
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Consider sailing frequency and pricing
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All Transport Depot can recommend the most cost-effective option
New Zealand Ports That Accept RORO Cargo
New Zealand has multiple modern ports equipped to handle RORO vehicle imports efficiently.
Main RORO Ports in New Zealand
Port of Auckland
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Primary port for vehicle imports
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Efficient customs and quarantine processing
Port of Tauranga
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High-capacity automotive terminal
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Popular for commercial and bulk shipments
Port of Lyttelton (Christchurch)
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Ideal for South Island deliveries
Port of Wellington
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Central access point for nationwide distribution
All ports follow strict biosecurity and inspection requirements enforced by New Zealand authorities.
Vehicles & Machinery Shipped via RORO to New Zealand
RORO shipping supports a wide range of vehicles and rolling equipment, making it ideal for both personal and commercial shipments.
Passenger Vehicles
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Sedans
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Hatchbacks
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SUVs & crossovers
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Minivans
Commercial Vehicles
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Pickup trucks
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Cargo vans
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Buses
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Box trucks
Heavy Machinery
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Excavators
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Bulldozers
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Tractors
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Wheel loaders
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Forklifts
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Agricultural equipment
Other Equipment
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Motorcycles
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Boats on trailers
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Jet skis
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RVs & campers
Non-Running Vehicles
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Accepted with forklift handling
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Additional port fees apply
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Advance notice required
Cost of RORO Shipping to New Zealand (2025 Guide)
Shipping rates vary depending on several factors. Due to the distance involved, accurate planning is essential.
Factors That Affect Pricing
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Vehicle size and type
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Departure port (West Coast generally cheaper)
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Running vs. non-running condition
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Machinery dimensions and weight
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Seasonal demand and fuel surcharges
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Port and documentation fees
Estimated Pricing Overview
(Exact pricing depends on availability—contact All Transport Depot for a precise quote.)
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Sedans: Competitive entry-level rates
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SUVs: Higher due to height and length
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Pickup trucks: Based on class and weight
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Heavy machinery: Priced per cubic meter (CBM)
Documents Required for RORO Shipping to New Zealand
Accurate documentation ensures compliance with U.S. export laws and New Zealand import regulations.
Required Documents
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Original vehicle title
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Bill of sale
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Copy of passport or government-issued ID
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Export Power of Attorney (provided by All Transport Depot)
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Consignee details in New Zealand
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Customs broker or clearing agent details (recommended)
Additional documents may be required for used, modified, or auction vehicles.
Step-by-Step: How to Ship a Vehicle from the USA to New Zealand
All Transport Depot coordinates every stage of your RORO shipment.
1. Request a Quote
Provide vehicle details, condition, and destination port.
2. Arrange Pickup or Port Delivery
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Door-to-port transport available
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Or self-delivery to the terminal
3. Port Inspection
Vehicle is inspected before loading.
4. U.S. Export Customs Filing
All Transport Depot handles all export documentation.
5. RORO Vessel Loading
Vehicle is driven aboard and securely fastened.
6. Ocean Transit to New Zealand
Sailings operate on fixed schedules.
7. New Zealand Customs & Biosecurity Clearance
Includes:
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Import duty & GST
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MPI quarantine inspection
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Port service charges
8. Vehicle Release & Pickup
Vehicle is collected from the port after clearance.
Transit Time from USA to New Zealand
Transit times vary based on port of departure and routing.
Estimated Transit Durations
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West Coast USA: ~25–35 days
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Gulf Coast USA: ~35–45 days
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East Coast USA: ~45–55 days
Delays may occur due to weather, transshipment schedules, or quarantine inspections.
How to Save Money on RORO Shipping to New Zealand
Smart planning can significantly reduce costs.
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Ship from the closest U.S. port
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Avoid peak shipping seasons
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Ensure the vehicle is thoroughly cleaned
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Keep the vehicle running to avoid extra fees
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Submit documents early
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Use a licensed exporter like All Transport Depot
Common Mistakes to Avoid
New Zealand enforces strict biosecurity laws. Avoid these common errors:
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Shipping vehicles with dirt, soil, or organic matter
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Leaving personal items inside the vehicle
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Incorrect consignee information
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Missing quarantine or customs paperwork
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Using unlicensed shipping agents
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Delaying GST and duty payments
Proper preparation prevents delays and penalties.
Why Ship with All Transport Depot?
All Transport Depot is a trusted partner for U.S. to New Zealand vehicle and machinery exports.
Our Advantages
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Licensed & bonded FMC NVOCC
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Experienced in Pacific-route shipping
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Competitive RORO pricing
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Door-to-port and port-to-port service
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Expert handling of heavy equipment
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Fast export documentation processing
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Dedicated customer support
We simplify international shipping—so you don’t have to.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Can I ship a financed vehicle to New Zealand?
Only if the lender provides written approval for export.
• Do vehicles need to be running?
Running vehicles are cheaper, but non-running units are accepted.
• Can I leave personal items inside?
No. RORO requires empty interiors.
• How long does customs clearance take?
Typically 3–7 business days, depending on MPI inspections.
• What is the cheapest way to ship a vehicle to New Zealand?
RORO shipping is generally the most affordable option.
✈️ Get a Free Quote Today
Ready to ship your vehicle by air? Here’s what we’ll need to get started:
📧 Email: ship@alltransportdepot.com
📲 WhatsApp: +1 (470) 791-4497
📞 Phone: +1 (678) 528-5794
At All TransportDepot Inc., we ensure premium service for safe, secure, and reliable car air shipping worldwide.
👉 Don’t wait—Get Your Free Quote Now

Ryan is an experienced truck driver at Lone Star Auto Transport. He’s logged thousands of miles, safely delivering vehicles across the vast expanse of Texas and beyond. His commitment to on-time deliveries and vehicle care is unmatched.