Shipping a Land Rover Defender from the UK to Australia

The classic Land Rover Defender (pre-2016 production) remains hugely popular across rural and outback Australia, valued for its simplicity, off-road capability and parts availability through specialists. Post-25-year-old Defenders qualify for Australia's import age exemption, avoiding the need for full ADR compliance, which has made older 90 and 110 models a common UK export, often fetching AU$35,000–AU$65,000 depending on condition and specification.

We ship Defenders to Australia via container from Southampton, as most examples being exported are older vehicles better protected from weather and handling during the 32–40 day transit than they would be on RORO. Vehicles with roof tents, snorkels or raised suspension need dimensions confirmed in advance, as height can exceed standard container limits, occasionally requiring a flat-rack booking.

Defenders used for off-roading or farm work are especially prone to failing Australian biosecurity inspection due to mud, soil and plant matter trapped in the chassis, differentials and wheel arches. We recommend a full jet-wash and underbody degrease before shipment; failure to pass inspection on arrival results in mandatory quarantine cleaning charged at AU$300–AU$600 and delays of several days.

Under the 25-year exemption, a Defender avoids ADR compliance but still attracts 5% customs duty and 10% GST on the CIF value. Newer Defenders (post-2016, sold as the new-generation model) do not qualify for the exemption and must go through Australia's Register of Approved Vehicles or the Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicle Scheme, a considerably more expensive and time-consuming process best discussed with an Australian compliance specialist before shipping.

Container shipping for a Defender from Southampton to an Australian port typically runs £1,600–£2,300 depending on dimensions and destination, with dedicated container options from £2,600–£3,200. Use our cost calculator for an accurate quote based on your Defender's exact specification.