Moving from Europe
to Australia
Relocating to Australia from Europe is one of the most popular long-haul moves in the world — and for good reason. With Simplo's overseas groupage service, you share container space with other shipments heading on the same route, so you only pay for the volume you use. We handle collection anywhere in Europe, consolidation, ocean freight, Australian biosecurity checks, customs clearance, and door-to-door delivery.
Whether you are moving to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, or Adelaide, Simplo coordinates every stage of your journey.
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Why use groupage for your move to Australia?
Australia is one of the most active groupage routes from Europe. Because so many people make this move, consolidation happens regularly and costs are kept competitive. You benefit from a professional, fully managed service without paying for empty container space.
Key benefits
- Pay only for the cubic metres you use
- Flexible collection from anywhere in Europe
- Consolidation at our Rotterdam hub with regular Australia sailings
- Full Australian biosecurity and customs clearance managed for you
- Door-to-door delivery to all major Australian cities
- Optional packing, storage, and insurance
Transit times — Europe to Australia
Sea freight is the standard method for household moves from Europe to Australia. Typical doorto-door times:
| Route | Transit time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Europe → Sydney / Melbourne | 10–14 weeks | Groupage incl. consolidation time |
| Europe → Brisbane / Adelaide | 10–14 weeks | Via Suez Canal |
| Europe → Perth | 8-12 weeks | Shorter sailing via Suez |
Note: Groupage shipments include 2–4 weeks consolidation time at origin. Biosecurity inspection in Australia adds 1–2 weeks. Book at least 10–12 weeks before your target delivery date.
Australian customs and biosecurity — what you need to know
Australia has some of the world's strictest biosecurity rules. Simplo prepares all documentation and works with licensed customs brokers and biosecurity-approved agents at every major Australian port.
What is duty-free
- Used household goods owned and used for at least 12 months qualify for duty-free import
- Personal effects, furniture, clothing, appliances, and electronics are all eligible
- Vehicles can be shipped alongside household goods
Biosecurity requirements — critical for Australia
- All goods must be clean and free from soil, seeds, plant material, and organic matter
- Outdoor items (garden furniture, tools, footwear, bikes) must be thoroughly cleaned before packing
- Second-hand wooden items may require fumigation or treatment
- Food items are generally prohibited — perishables, fresh produce, meat, and dairy cannot be shipped
- Straw, sawdust, and wood shavings must not be used as packing material
Key documents required
- B534 Unaccompanied Personal Effects Statement (completed before your arrival in Australia)
- Detailed itemised inventory with declared values
- Copy of passport and valid Australian visa or residency document
- Proof of overseas residency and ownership of goods
Simplo reviews your inventory before shipment to identify any items that may cause biosecurity issues at the Australian border.
How your move works,
step by step
1. Get an instant quote
Enter your origin country, destination, and estimated volume. Our calculator gives you an immediate price estimate for your groupage move to Australia.
2. We plan your shipment
Once you confirm, we match your shipment with others on the same route. Your collection date is scheduled at a time that works for you.
3. Collection and consolidation
We collect your belongings from anywhere in Europe and consolidate them at our hub near Rotterdam, ready for ocean freight.
4. Ocean freight
Your container departs on a scheduled service. We track progress and keep you informed throughout the transit.
5. Customs clearance
Our local partner at the destination port handles all customs and biosecurity documentation on your behalf.
6. Door-to-door delivery
Your goods are transported from the port to your final address. Optional unpacking and storage are available
Additional services
Alongside the core groupage service, you can add:
- Professional packing at your home
- Packing materials supplied in advance
- Short- or long-term storage at origin or destination
- Transit insurance coverage
- Vehicle shipping alongside household goods
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to move from Europe to Australia?
Groupage pricing is based on volume (cubic metres). Typical moves range from a few m³ for a studio to 20+ m³ for a family home. Use our instant quote tool for a real price for your volume and destination.
How long does shipping from Europe to Australia take?
Door-to-door groupage typically takes 10–14 weeks, including consolidation and biosecurity clearance. For Perth, slightly faster at 8–12 weeks. We recommend booking at least 10 weeks before your target delivery date.
What are Australia's biosecurity rules for household goods?
The Australian Department of Agriculture (DAFF) requires all used household goods to be inspected. Items must be clean and free of soil, seeds, or organic matter. Simplo advises on exactly what to clean and how to pack to avoid delays.
Can I ship my car to Australia with my household goods?
Yes. Vehicles can be containerised alongside your household goods. Australian import rules for vehicles are strict — we advise on compliance before shipment.
Do I need a customs broker for Australia?
Yes. Australian Border Force (ABF) requires a licensed customs broker for household goods clearance. Simplo coordinates with an ABF-approved broker at your arrival port — this is included in your service.
Ready to move?
Start your groupage quote and get an instant estimate for your overseas move.
Start your groupage quote