Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the answers to our most frequently asked questions regarding general freight, warehousing and distribution and questions from those new to freight. Please contact us if you require further assistance.
FREIGHT SERVICES
Do you transport personal effects?
No. For larger consignments (i.e. household furniture), we recommend you contact a reputable removal company which can provide domestic/international transport. Alternatively, a courier can deliver smaller packages.
Do you transport small parcels?
No. We recommend you contact a courier to deliver small packages.
What do you transport?
We import, export, distribute and deliver freight in commercial quantities across the globe. Please see our Services page for more information.
Do you transport refrigerated cargo?
Yes. We transport a variety of refrigerated goods in commercial quantities.
Do you provide customs clearances?
Yes. See our Customs Brokerage service for more details.
Do you provide insurance?
Yes. We have a range of insurance options available subject to commodity type.
Can you arrange fumigation?
Yes. We can arrange cargo specific fumigation in accordance with all government regulations (including the Environmental Protection Agency).
Do you provide door to door delivery?
Yes. We can pickup and deliver just about anything to just about anywhere in commercial quantities.
What are your hours of operation?
Please see our Contact information for full details.
When is payment required?
Unless otherwise agreed in writing, all charges are prepaid and must be settled immediately on the date of invoice. Please see our Terms & Conditions for more details.
WAREHOUSING & DISTRIBUTION
Do you provide warehousing and distribution?
Yes. We provide Warehousing and Distribution for commercial clients throughout New Zealand.
Where are your distribution centres located?
Our purpose built distribution centres are conveniently located in Christchurch and Auckland.
Not the location you need? Working closely with regional providers, we’ve established a comprehensive service network offering nationwide warehousing and distribution coverage where you need it.
Do you have MPI approved transitional facilities?
Yes. All Champion Freight distribution centres are MPI approved transitional facilities (ATFs).
Do you offer 24 hour access to stored merchandise?
No. Strict health and safety regulations in addition to customs and security protocols restrict warehouse access outside regular business hours. Please contact us to arrange an appointment.
Can we use our own transport providers?
Yes. You can either, a) use your own carrier, b) take advantage of Champion Freight’s cost-effective transport services, or c) adopt a combination of both. Our versatile warehousing and distribution packages are tailored to suit your evolving business needs and budget.
Are your facilities secure?
Yes. Featuring the latest fire and theft systems, our secure warehouse facilities include full video surveillance and 24/7 security monitoring.
Do you offer short and long-term storage?
Yes. Whatever time you need, we can help.
NEW TO FREIGHT
What is a freight forwarder and why do I need one?
Please see our article on Freight Forwarding for full details.
What is a customs broker?
In New Zealand, a customs broker operates under licence and can assist in the clearance of freight through customs and MPI (Ministry of Primary Industries). These agencies are collectively responsible for the vetting of imported and exported goods through random or periodic cargo inspection, in search of contraband and biosecurity risks. Beyond New Zealand, customs brokers will typically establish an international network of customs partners, resourcing local brokers in other countries to ensure seamless and timely clearance of international freight.
Please see our Customs Brokerage page for full details.
How long does a customs clearance take?
In New Zealand, clearance can be arranged in just a few hours, depending on customs congestion and inspection requirements.
I’m shipping a vehicle. What do I need to know?
Please see our Vehicle Shipping Guide for an introductory guide to vehicle freight.
What are Incoterms®?
Please see our Incoterms® page for a full overview.
Do I need insurance?
Insurance is recommended for all shipments with a variety of policy options available to match your needs and budget.
What does "this word" mean?
Please see our Freight Glossary for common industry words and acronyms.
GENERAL
How much can a shipping container hold?
Please see our article on Shipping Container Specifications for full details.
I’ve lost the original Bill of Lading. What do I do?
Please see our article on Lost Bill of Lading for full details.
How long will it take to ship?
Timeframes range from just a few days (between New Zealand and Australia) to a month (between New Zealand and North America) depending on distance, vessel frequency, space, transshipment requirements and customs clearances. Please see Transit Times for voyage estimates across the globe, or Shipping Schedules for current port arrival dates.
