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Customs Number

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  • A Customs Number identifies private importers and exporters for clearance purposes.
  • You need to apply for a Customs Number if:
    • you're bringing items worth NZ$1000 or more into New Zealand 
    • you're sending items worth NZ$1000 or more overseas
    • you’re bringing in a motor vehicle, no matter the value.
  • Your Customs Number is unique to you, and you keep the same number permanently.
  • Once you have a Customs Number, you’ll need to use it for all eligible imports and exports.
  • If you are importing or exporting for commercial purposes (to sell or use in a business), you need a client code.

What is a Customs Number?

A Customs Number is a unique number that identifies private importers and exporters. It is required as part of the import and export process for shipments valued at NZ$1000 or more.

You need to apply for a Customs Number if your items are valued at NZ$1000 or more and: 

  • you're planning on bringing items into New Zealand (importing), or
  • you're sending items overseas (exporting).

Bringing items into New Zealand includes items you have purchased and items gifted to you.

How to apply for a Customs Number

Supporting documents

You will need to provide a copy of your valid photo ID with your form. This must be one of the following:

  • your passport bio-page
  • your New Zealand driver licence (front and back)
  • another acceptable form of official photo identification.

The copy must be clearly legible, or your application will be returned to you. 

If you are under the age of 16, you should also provide ID belonging to the parent or guardian who will sign the form on your behalf.

After you have applied for a Customs Number 

  • You will receive an auto-response from noreply@tsw.govt.nz advising you of your Customs Number once your request has been approved.
  • If you are unable to locate this information via your email inbox or spam inbox, contact us.
  • You should retain your email with your Customs Number for future imports or exports.

You may already have a Customs Number

If you have brought in or sent items overseas valued at NZ$1000 or more before, you will already have a Customs Number. You do not need to apply for a Customs Number again. You would have received notification of your Customs Number via email from Customs or your customs broker.

If you think you may already have a Customs Number, check your email for an auto-response from noreply@tsw.govt.nz. If you are unable to locate this information via your email inbox or spam inbox, contact us.

Importing for commercial purposes

If you are planning to import items for sale in New Zealand, you need to apply for a client code.

If you are importing food for sale or food ingredients for use in food for sale, no matter the value, you must register as a food importer.  

For relevant application forms, refer to the client code webpage.