Whether you’re a caravan manufacturer looking to expand your global reach, a dealership seeking to import unique models, or an individual planning an extended international trip with your caravan, efficient and reliable international shipping is crucial. Undoubtedly, reaching new markets and diversifying your revenue streams requires seamless logistics. This is especially true for the caravan industry, where transporting these specialised vehicles across borders presents unique challenges. For example, navigating complex customs regulations and ensuring your caravan’s safe arrival can be overwhelming. Therefore, the expertise of a skilled freight forwarder is essential.
This article will share useful insights into the complexities of international caravan shipping. Additionally, it will cover an overview of leading Australian freight forwarders in this field, necessary documentation for import and export, and popular shipping methods and destinations. Furthermore, for a deeper understanding of global caravan shipping, check out our earlier article, “A Guide to Caravan Shipping to and from Australia.”
Shipping Methods
When shipping a caravan internationally, there are two primary methods to consider:
- Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) Shipping. Firstly, Ro-Ro is the most common method. In other words, caravans are simply driven onto the vessel, much like driving onto a large ferry. As a result, this minimises the risk of damage during loading and unloading, making it a practical and efficient choice for many.
- Container Shipping. Generally, container shipping is a secure option for smaller caravans or when extra protection is crucial. So the caravan is loaded into a specially designed container, providing a protective shield against potential damage during transit.
Vessel Types
- Ro-Ro Vessels. These specialised ships are designed with ramps and internal drive-through decks to accommodate vehicles of various sizes, including caravans. Also they are perfectly suited for handling the weight and dimensions of oversized cargo like caravans.
- Container Ships. As the name suggests, container ships are used for transporting cargo within standardised shipping containers.
While primarily designed for containerised goods, some container ships can also accommodate vehicles. Though this may not always be the most efficient option for caravans.
Popular Destinations
Import Destinations
Australia sees a significant influx of caravans from several key regions, including:
- China. Firstly, a significant portion of caravans sold in Australia are manufactured in China.
- Europe. Secondly, countries like the United Kingdom, Germany, and the Netherlands are popular sources for imported caravans.
- North America. Thirdly, the United States and Canada also contribute to the Australian caravan import market.
- New Zealand. Lastly, given the close proximity and similarities in caravanning culture, New Zealand is a significant source for caravan imports into Australia.
Export Destinations
Australian-made caravans are highly regarded internationally and are shipped to various destinations, including:
- New Zealand. Firstly, as a neighboring country with a strong caravanning culture, New Zealand is a major export market for Australian caravans.
- South-East Asia. Moreover, countries in Southeast Asia, such as Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand, are emerging markets for Australian caravan exports.
- Europe. Finally, while a more distant market, some Australian caravan manufacturers are successfully exporting to European countries.
Top Australian Caravan Shipping Companies
GenFreight Global Logistics
Company Overview: Founded in 2013, GenFreight Global Logistics Pty Ltd is a prominent provider of international freight forwarding and logistics services. With years of experience, they specialise in handling oversized cargo such as caravans, boats, catamarans, heavy lift cargo, heavy machinery and breakbulk.
In addition to oversized shipments, GenFreight also manages cargo in standard containers and offers services like customs clearance and warehousing. Their commitment to delivering tailored logistics solutions ensures that each client receives personalised support for their unique needs.
Services Offered: GenFreight provides a wide range of services, including Ro-Ro shipping, container shipping, customs clearance, warehousing, air and sea freight, alcohol shipping, and perishable goods transportation, etc
Areas of Expertise: With a global network, GenFreight has the expertise to handle caravan shipments to destinations around the world. They focus on route optimisation, providing cost-effective solutions, and offering exceptional customer service to meet the individual needs of each client.
Offices Location: Brisbane, Melbourne
Contact Information: Website: https://genfreight.com.au/, Phone: 1300 661 961, Email: [email protected]
Taurus Logistics
Company Overview: Established in 2002 as Taurus Logistics, the company has roots dating back to 1980 in customs brokerage. Today, Taurus Logistics is a trusted freight forwarding specialist with a proven history in international caravan shipping. Their focus on customer satisfaction and exceptional service has earned them a strong reputation in the industry.
Services Offered: Taurus Logistics provides comprehensive logistics solutions, including car shipping, boat shipping, caravan shipping, machinery shipping, general FCL and LCL shipping by sea and air, inland delivery, and customs brokerage services.
Areas of Expertise: The company excels in handling complex shipments such as boats, yachts, project cargo, cars, motorhomes, earthmoving equipment, mining machinery, aircraft, and construction machinery. They provide global shipping solutions for oversized and challenging cargo.
Offices Location: Melbourne, Christchurch
Contact Information: Website: https://tauruslogistics.com.au/ , Phone:
+61 (3) 8657 5563, Email: [email protected]
MCC World International
Company Overview: Founded in 2007, MCC World International has grown into one of Australia’s leading container and general freight logistics companies. They are known for delivering reliable and efficient logistics solutions to meet diverse customer needs.
Services Offered: MCC World International provides a wide range of logistics services, including sea and air freight, road transport, customs clearance, warehousing and distribution, consolidated freight, and international vehicle shipping.
Areas of Expertise: MCC World International is a trusted logistics partner in Australia, specialising in seamless freight forwarding and supply chain solutions across air, sea, and land. By combining local expertise with global reach, they ensure secure, reliable supply chain operations and efficient warehouse delivery across international borders.
Offices Location: Melbourne
Contact Information: Website: https://www.mccworldinternational.com/, Phone: 1300 66 88 16 , Email: [email protected]
Phoenix Shipping
Company Overview: Phoenix Shipping is a full-service shipping and logistics company specialising in international vehicle logistics. With extensive experience, their primary shipping routes include Japan, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, among others.
Services Offered: Phoenix Shipping provides comprehensive vehicle logistics services, including customs clearance and shipping for cars, utes, caravans, motorhomes, trailer boats, motorcycles, heavy machinery, and trucks.
Areas of Expertise: As specialists in auto shipping, Phoenix Shipping handles the import and export of a wide range of vehicles globally. Their expertise ensures a smooth and reliable process for all types of vehicle shipments.
Offices Location: Camden, NSW
Contact Information: Website: https://phoenixshipping.com.au, Phone: 0450 255 144
Willship International
Company Overview: Established in 2014, Willship International is a premier provider of international freight forwarding and logistics solutions. With a dedicated team specialising in caravan shipping, the company emphasises a personalised approach and prioritises customer satisfaction in every project.
Services Offered: Willship International delivers a wide range of services, including international door-to-door shipping for automotive cargo such as vehicles, motorcycles, caravans, motorhomes, and trailer boats; international air and sea freight services; project logistics; customs clearance; domestic transportation; warehousing solutions.
Areas of Expertise: With over 50 years of combined industry experience, Willship International is a trusted name in freight forwarding and customs brokerage. The company specialises in comprehensive freight solutions for businesses across Australia and New Zealand, offering dependable and efficient logistics services tailored to meet unique customer needs.
Offices Location: Brisbane
Contact Information: Website: https://willship.com.au/, Phone: +61 7 3267 3694, Email: [email protected]
Sea Go International
Company Overview: Founded in 1999, SEA GO International is a trusted global partner for all international vehicle shipping needs. With over 30 years of experience, the company is driven by a passion for vehicles and a dedication to ensuring their safe and efficient delivery to destinations worldwide. Whether handling imports or exports, SEA GO is committed to providing reliable and secure transportation for vehicles of all types.
Services Offered: SEA GO International offers a wide range of services, including vehicle valuation, vehicle import approvals (VIA), shared container services such as R-Rak, caravan shipping, customs clearance, FCL (Full Container Load), Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off), and comprehensive import and export logistics.
Areas of Expertise: As a leader in the industry, SEA GO leverages its expertise to provide innovative solutions for international vehicle shipping. Their R-Rak system optimizes container space, reducing costs and increasing efficiency. Whether it’s a classic car, caravan, or fleet of vehicles, their experienced team ensures a smooth, hassle-free process from shipping to customs clearance.
Offices Location: Gold Coast
Contact Information: Website: https://seago.com.au/, Phone: 1300885888, Email: [email protected]
Dolphin Shipping
Company Overview: Founded in 2012, Dolphin Shipping is a well-established multi-national specialist in vehicle shipping and logistics. With over 30 years of experience, the team excels in importing and exporting cars, motorhomes, boats, heavy machinery, and various types of cargo. Leveraging a global network, Dolphin Shipping provides reliable and versatile solutions, ensuring customers are in the best hands for their transportation needs.
Services Offered: Dolphin Shipping’s services include door-to-door vehicle shipping, customs and quarantine clearance, domestic and interstate cartage, heavy machinery transport, FCL and LCL general cargo shipping, boat shipping, and breakbulk shipping.
Areas of Expertise: Dolphin Shipping specialises in international logistics and vehicle shipping, offering tailored solutions for cars, motorbikes, boats, motorhomes, RVs, heavy machinery, and other types of cargo. Their extensive global network and experienced team ensure efficient handling of shipments, regardless of size or complexity. With decades of industry expertise, Dolphin Shipping provides seamless importing and exporting services for customers worldwide.
Offices Location: Sydney
Contact Information: Website: https://www.dolphincargo.com.au/, Phone: +61(0) 2 90596688, Email: [email protected]
Import/Export Documentation
Undoubtedly, accurate and complete documentation is paramount for smooth customs clearance. Additionally, it helps to avoid delays or potential issues.
Key Documents:
Import:
- Bill of Lading. Firstly, this document serves as a contract of carriage between the shipper and the carrier, outlining the terms of transportation.
- Commercial Invoice. Secondly, this detailed invoice provides information about the goods being imported, including the value, weight, and description of the caravan.
- Packing List. Thirdly, a comprehensive list detailing the contents of the shipment, including any accessories or spare parts.
- Certificate of Origin. Additionally, this document certifies the country of origin of the caravan. Which is crucial for determining applicable import duties and taxes.
- Import Permit (if required). Moreover, some countries may require specific import permits or licenses for certain types of vehicles, including caravans.
- Customs Declaration. Lastly, this document provides customs authorities with information about the imported goods. Also it allows them to assess applicable duties and taxes.
Export:
- Bill of Lading. As with imports, the Bill of Lading serves as a contract of carriage for the export shipment.
- Commercial Invoice. Moreover, a detailed invoice outlining the value, weight, and description of the caravan being exported.
- Packing List. Also a comprehensive list detailing the contents of the shipment, including any accessories or spare parts.
- Export License (if required). Furthermore, some countries may require export licenses for certain types of goods, including caravans.
- Customs Declaration. Finally, this document provides customs authorities with information about the exported goods and ensures compliance with export regulations.
Important Note:
Remember that documentation requirements can vary significantly depending on the specific destination country. Thoroughly research and comply with the regulations of both the importing and exporting countries to ensure a smooth and hassle-free caravan shipping process. You can also check the Australian Border Force (ABF) website for the most up-to-date information and guidance.
Conclusion
Choosing the right shipping partner is crucial for a successful international caravan shipment. A reputable freight forwarder with expertise in handling oversized and specialised cargo like caravans can navigate the complexities of international logistics, ensuring your vehicle arrives at its destination safely and on time.
If you have any questions or are in need of an experienced and professional freight forwarder in Australia, look no further than GenFreight Global Logistics. With decades of industry expertise, we are more than happy to assist you with all your international caravan shipping needs. Contact us today for personalised solutions and reliable guidance to ensure the success of your shipping endeavors.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the details provided. The content may be subject to change and should not be used as a sole resource for making shipping decisions. We recommend consulting directly with experienced freight forwarding professionals for personalized advice and services. GenFreight Global Logistics is not responsible for any decisions made based on the information in this article or for any resulting consequences.