Importing into Brisbane? A licensed customs broker lodges your import declaration, works out duty and GST and gets your goods released. Here's when you need one, what to ask, and a worked duty and GST example.
Last updated: 5 October 2026
In short: A customs broker in Brisbane lodges your import declaration with the Australian Border Force, works out your duty and GST, and gets your goods released from the port. You don't always need one, but for commercial shipments most Aussie importers use a licensed broker because mistakes are expensive. Choose a broker who explains fees upfront and knows your product category.
Think of a customs broker as your translator with the Border Force. They classify your goods under the right tariff code, lodge the import declaration, calculate duty and GST and arrange release once any quarantine checks are done. They also advise on permits and compliance for tricky products.
Our full explainer on what a customs broker does covers the basics. If you're new to the whole process, read our guide to importing from China to Brisbane first.
Legally, you can lodge your own import declaration if you've got the right access and know-how. In practice, most small businesses hire a licensed broker. Australian customs rules are detailed, and an incorrect declaration can lead to delays, extra charges or penalties.
You'll most likely want a broker if you're importing by sea in a container, bringing in regulated products like electronics, children's goods or food, or if your goods are worth more than A$1,000. Very small, low-value parcels are treated differently, but check the current thresholds with the Australian Border Force.
Most general goods from China attract customs duty of 5% (some are free thanks to trade agreements) and GST of 10% on the value of the taxable importation. That value is your goods value (FOB) plus international freight and insurance plus duty. Here's an illustrative example only:
| Item | Amount (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Goods value (FOB) | $8,000 |
| International freight and insurance | $1,200 |
| Duty at 5% of $8,000 | $400 |
| Value of taxable importation | $9,600 |
| GST at 10% | $960 |
| Paid to customs on arrival | $1,360 |
Registered businesses can usually claim the GST back. The deferred GST scheme can help your cash flow too. Your tariff classification is key, so see our guide to HS codes.
Fees vary by broker and shipment size. Typical charges include a clearance or declaration fee, an agency fee, and pass-through costs like terminal and quarantine charges. Brokers often quote a flat fee per consignment for simple shipments. Always ask what's included, because disbursements can add up.
For the full cost picture, including freight and local delivery, use our landed cost guide.
Sea freight into Queensland usually arrives at the Port of Brisbane at Fisherman Islands, while air freight lands at Brisbane Airport. Your broker coordinates with the terminal, the carrier and any biosecurity inspection. For details on that last step, see our guide to customs clearance in Australia.
No. A forwarder arranges the transport. A customs broker deals with the Border Force and your import declaration. Many companies offer both services, but they're separate jobs.
You can, but it takes time to learn. Most small importers find a licensed broker saves time and avoids costly errors, especially for their first few shipments.
Straightforward shipments can clear within a few days of arrival once paperwork is right. Goods selected for inspection, or with missing documents, take longer. Good documents from your supplier make the biggest difference.
Typically the commercial invoice, packing list and bill of lading or air waybill. Some products need extra certificates. Read our guides to the commercial invoice and bill of lading.
No. Many goods are duty-free or low duty under trade agreements or tariff concessions, but most general consumer goods attract 5%. Your broker can confirm the rate for your product.
Paperwork shouldn't slow down your launch. We've sourced 20,000+ products for 300+ happy clients and our bilingual teams in China and Vietnam make sure invoices, packing lists and labels are right before goods leave the factory. Clients save around 77% on average, and we help line up freight and clearance partners. Looking at a private label range? Try our private label guide. Book a chat with our team, or see our importing from China service and pricing.
