At Platinum®, we recently received a call from an importer based in Brisbane who found himself in a challenging and costly situation. His story serves as a cautionary tale for all Australian importers, highlighting the importance of consulting a trusted customs broker before purchasing goods from overseas.
The Importer’s Dilemma: A Costly Oversight
The Brisbane-based importer had purchased a food trailer from China, which arrived in Brisbane as a Full Container Load (FCL). While he already had a customs broker working on his file, he reached out to Platinum® for a second opinion after encountering a major issue.
The problem? His Chinese supplier had failed to inform him that an import approval was required from the Department of Infrastructure (www.infrastructure.gov.au) before the food trailer could be cleared for entry into Australia.
To make matters worse, the Chinese supplier was on National Holidays from October 1 to October 8, 2025, leaving the importer without the critical information needed to apply for the import approval.
The Consequences of Missing Import Approvals
Import approvals are a vital part of the customs clearance process for certain goods entering Australia, like food trailers and food trucks. In this case, the importer’s food trailer required approval from the Department of Infrastructure, a process that typically takes 30 business days (or 42 calendar days) to process.
Without the necessary import approval, the importer’s shipment was stuck in limbo, incurring costly storage fees at the port and also rent (detention) fees on the shipping company’s owned shipping container. This situation placed the importer in a dangerous, expensive, and dire position, all because he hadn’t sought proper advice before making his purchase.
The Importance of Consulting a Customs Broker
This unfortunate scenario underscores the critical role that a professional customs broker plays in the import process. Here’s why consulting a trusted broker like Platinum® is essential:
1. Expert Advice on Import Requirements
A customs broker can provide detailed guidance on the specific import requirements for your goods, including any necessary approvals, permits, or compliance issues with both the Australian Border Force (ABF) and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF).
2. Avoid Costly Delays and Penalties
By ensuring that all documentation and approvals are in place before your shipment departs from overseas, a customs broker helps you to avoid delays, storage fees, and rent (detention).
3. Navigate Complex Regulations
Importing goods into Australia involves navigating a maze of regulations, including those set down by both the Australian Border Force (ABF), the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF), and other government agencies like Infrastructure. A customs broker ensures that your shipment complies with all requirements before it departs from overseas.
4. Peace of Mind
With a trusted customs broker handling your shipment, you can focus on your business while they manage the complexities of customs clearance and logistics.
Lessons for Australian Importers
This case highlights a crucial lesson for all Australian importers: never purchase items from overseas without first consulting with a professional customs broker. Here are some key takeaways:
- Do Your Research – Understand the import requirements for your goods, including any necessary approvals or permits.
- Consult a Customs Broker Early – Engage a customs broker like Platinum® before making your purchase to ensure that you are fully informed.
- Communicate with Suppliers – Work closely with your overseas suppliers to ensure that they provide all of the necessary information and documentation.
- Plan for Delays – Be aware of potential delays, such as public holidays in the supplier’s country, and factor these into your timeline.
How Platinum® Can Help
At Platinum®, we have over 25 years of experience helping Australian importers navigate the complexities of customs clearance. Our team of expert customs brokers provides personalised advice and support to ensure that your shipments comply with all of the Australian regulations.
Whether you are importing a Full Container Load (FCL), Less than a Container Load (LCL), or high-value goods, we are here to help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure a smooth import process.
Don’t Risk It – Consult Platinum® Today
If you are planning to import goods into Australia, don’t leave anything to chance. Contact Platinum® today to receive expert advice and support from our experienced customs brokers. Let us help you navigate the complexities of customs clearance so that you can focus on growing your business.