Port Chalmers is a key vehicle export location serving Dunedin, Otago. Otago deep-water port serving Dunedin and lower South Island exports.
Export routes from Port Chalmers
Regular RoRo and container services from Port Chalmers connect to Australia, Pacific, and other global destinations depending on carrier schedule.
Terminals and carriers
Terminals: Beach Street Wharf
RoRo / shipping lines: Breakbulk RoRo, coastal
Fuel level rules at New Zealand export ports
Trans-Tasman and deep-sea carriers loading at New Zealand ports typically require a low fuel level — often between one-quarter tank and empty — and will reject vehicles that are leaking or over-filled. Container exports and some RoRo sailings require a fully empty tank. Always confirm your carrier's cut-off and fuel rule before delivery.
If your vehicle is above the allowed level, or your forwarder requires a documented empty tank, EEK drains the tank and fuel lines, records litres removed, and disposes via licensed carriers — so you arrive at the port gate compliant.
Why book pre-export drain before Port Chalmers
- Gate compliance — avoid turn-away, demurrage, and emergency siphon charges at the port compound.
- Documented removal — litres drained recorded for your export paperwork and carrier check-in.
- Licensed disposal — NZIFDA certified; waste tracked per NZ policy.
- Tank and lines — we drain the tank and purge fuel lines, not just siphon at the kerb.
EEK pre-export fuel removal process
- Book online or call — quote your port, sailing date, and vehicle.
- Mobile or workshop drain — tank and line evacuation with litres documented.
- Licensed disposal — fuel removed via New Zealand Insoluble Fuel Disposal Agency compliant carriers.
- Deliver to Port Chalmers — vehicle ready for RoRo drive-on or container load.
Planning your Dunedin export delivery
Confirm your forwarder's cargo closing date, terminal gate hours, and whether RoRo or container applies. Non-runners and oversized vehicles may need separate terminal booking — notify your carrier early. For Port Chalmers, allow time for inland haulage across Otago and pre-export drain before port delivery.
Carrier fuel rules vary by sailing and terminal. Confirm limits with your shipping line before port delivery.