Export Drain/Requirements guides/Pre-export checklist

Vehicle Export Pre-Shipment Checklist: Fuel, Docs & Port Delivery

Complete vehicle export checklist: fuel level, documentation, personal items, vehicle condition, port delivery timing, and pre-export fuel drain booking.

NZIFDA CertifiedMisfuel Services NationwideBook pre-export fuel drain

Checklist before delivering to Ports of Auckland, Tauranga, Lyttelton, or other NZ export ports.

Fuel & mechanical

  • ☐ Confirm carrier fuel band (typically 10–25% RoRo, or empty for container/deep-sea)
  • ☐ No fuel, oil, or water leaks
  • ☐ Working fuel gauge
  • ☐ RoRo: vehicle starts, steers, brakes under own power

Biosecurity (MPI)

  • ☐ Exterior washed — no mud, seeds, soil in wheel arches or underbody
  • ☐ Interior vacuumed; no plant material or soil
  • ☐ Caravan/fridge compartments accessible for inspection

Documentation

  • ☐ Proof of ownership and export customs entry
  • ☐ Forwarder booking and sailing date
  • ☐ Insurance and shipping instructions

RoRo interior

  • ☐ No personal items in cabin (container option if you need belongings)
  • ☐ LPG bottles removed from caravans
  • ☐ Lithium leisure batteries removed where required

Book pre-export drain: online or call 0800 769 000.

New Zealand export requirements (related)

Beyond fuel, NZ vehicle exports typically require:

  • Clean vehicle — MPI biosecurity inspection; mud, seeds, and soil can fail inspection
  • Running condition for RoRo — drivable with working brakes and steering unless containerised
  • Customs export entry via your freight forwarder
  • No personal effects in RoRo — cabin must be empty except spare tyre and jack unless shipping container

Common questions

When should I book pre-export fuel drain?
Ideally 2–5 days before port delivery, after confirming your carrier fuel limit.