Step 1: Get or Update Your ABN
- •Apply via the Australian Business Register (free, instant for most applicants).
- •Ensure the business activity includes "import" so banks and insurers understand your profile.
- •Sole traders can use personal ABNs; companies use ACNs linked to the ABN.
Step 2: Apply for a Customs Client ID (CCID)
| Field | What to Enter |
|---|---|
| Client type | "Importer" |
| Identification | ABN or TFN |
| Contact | Decision maker in Australia |
- •Use form B319 and email to customs.clientid@abf.gov.au.
- •Processing time: 1-3 business days (faster if you include identification and ASIC extract).
- •CCID lets you lodge import declarations in the Integrated Cargo System (ICS) or authorise Spotyard to lodge on your behalf.
Step 3: Decide Who Lodges Declarations
- •Self-lodgement: You need ICS digital certificates, brokers’ software, and tariff knowledge.
- •Broker/forwarder lodgement: Most SMEs authorise us via a Nomination of Agent form (B650).
Step 4: Understand Licence Requirements
Good news: Australia does not require a general import licence.
Licences or permits are only needed when your products fall under:
- •Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) – cosmetics with actives, medical devices.
- •Department of Agriculture (DAFF) – food, plant, animal products.
- •Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) – Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, radio transmitters.
- •Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) – mandatory safety standards (toys, button batteries, furniture).
Step 5: Set Up Duty/GST Payments
- •Register for Deferred GST if your cash flow is tight (requires good BAS history).
- •Ask your freight forwarder to use an authority to deal if you want them to pay duties on your behalf.
- •Keep the Import Declaration (N10) and duty receipts for 5+ years for ATO reviews.
Step 6: Create an Import Procedures Folder
- ABN certificate & ASIC extract
- CCID approval email
- Broker nomination form
- Insurance certificate of currency
- Product compliance evidence (RCM, WELS, GEMS, energy labels)
FAQs from New Importers
- •Can I import under a personal name? Yes for low-value shipments (<$1,000), but you’ll need an ABN for commercial volumes.
- •Do I need a warehouse first? No. You can instruct deliveries to 3PLs or Amazon FBA, just list their address on the import declaration.
- •How fast can I start importing? If you have an ABN already, CCID approval plus broker onboarding can be done within 48 hours.
Next Steps
- Lodge your CCID form today.
- Share the approval with Spotyard so we can pre-fill your importer profile.
- Use our calculators to estimate GST/duty before confirming supplier deposits.
Download CCID Checklist | Speak with a Customs Specialist
How Spotyard Helps
New importers lean on Spotyard for:
- •Step-by-step onboarding, ABN/GST setup guidance, and compliance templates
- •Calculator walkthroughs plus tailored freight/cost forecasts
- •A dedicated success manager covering sourcing through final mile