Unaccompanied baggage
The details stated below apply to Air New Zealand operated flights only. If your flight is operated by an Air New Zealand partner airline, you will need to check the details with the airline operating the service.
Air New Zealand will accept hand tools of trade, strollers and pushchairs as unaccompanied baggage.
For large amounts of excess baggage the cost may be lower using this unaccompanied baggage option. However, due to security requirements items sent this way won't travel on the same aircraft as you.
Dangerous goods (e.g. aerosols of any type), TVs, stereos, household items, machinery, machine or spare parts, money, securities, jewellery, watches, plate and plated ware, furs, films, cameras, tickets, documents, liquors, perfumes, merchandise and sales samples are not considered unaccompanied baggage.
Unaccompanied baggage from New Zealand (excluding to the USA)
Unaccompanied baggage from Australia (excluding to the USA)
Unaccompanied baggage from all countries, except from New Zealand, Australia, USA
Unaccompanied baggage to the USA from all countries
Unaccompanied baggage from the USA
Unaccompanied baggage service fee
Unaccompanied baggage from New Zealand (excluding to the USA)
If you hold a passenger ticket to an international destination, Air New Zealand can offer you a discount off the published cargo rate to most destinations (does not include Niue, Samoa and Tonga). From New Zealand unaccompanied baggage (baggage shipped as cargo) rates are 50% of the normal cargo rate. Rates from other countries may differ (contact your local area Air New Zealand representative).
For large amounts of excess baggage the cost may be lower using this unaccompanied baggage option. An Air New Zealand documentation fee plus a Customs Export Clearance fee is required to be paid and is added to the final cost. Depending on the destination country, customs charges may need to be paid on pick up of consignment.
Another alternative is to contact your local airfreight forwarder to obtain a quote. They will also provide pickup and delivery services if required.
If your baggage exceeds the checked-in baggage allowance and you wish to send it as unaccompanied baggage via cargo, we recommend you contact an Air New Zealand local area representative at least 5 days before your travel to discuss your requirements.
Unaccompanied baggage from Australia (excluding to the USA)
For Australian customers, all unaccompanied baggage ex Australia is handled by IATA Freight Forwarders. Phone 1 800 422 076 for contact numbers.
Unaccompanied baggage from all countries, except from New Zealand, Australia, USA
If your baggage exceeds the checked in baggage allowance and you wish to send it as unaccompanied baggage via cargo, we recommend you contact an Air New Zealand local area representative at least 5 days before your travel to discuss your requirements.
Please note: depending on the amount of unaccompanied baggage being sent as cargo, excess baggage may be the more economical option. Also remember as cargo terminals are often located a distance from the main passenger terminal it is important you prearrange this service before you commence your journey.
Another alternative is to contact your local airfreight forwarder to obtain a quote. They will also provide pickup and delivery services if required.
Unaccompanied baggage to the USA from all countries
If you are sending unaccompanied baggage into the United States (or US territory), which contains any food, drink, or body products such as cosmetics, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) require notification at least 4 hours in advance of the flight arrival in the USA.
The following options are available to customers:
- Remove the items from the cargo shipment
- Carry the items as checked-in baggage or cabin baggage. Note: excess baggage charges may apply
- Send as unaccompanied baggage but comply with all FDA prior notice regulations
If you are in any doubt, do not send the items as unaccompanied baggage or cargo. For more information, this Unaccompanied Baggage PDF document provides a full review of this policy, or visit the FDA site.
Unaccompanied baggage from the USA
Due to TSA regulations unaccompanied baggage from USA is not accepted by Air New Zealand Cargo. Customers have the options of:
- Checking their baggage as excess on their flight(s)
- Contacting a freight forwarder to assist them in moving their baggage
Unaccompanied baggage service fee
A New Zealand Customs Export Clearance is now required for all cargo shipped from New Zealand, including unaccompanied baggage. Air New Zealand Cargo will facilitate this clearance on your behalf. A charge of NZD $30 applies for this service.
For more information on sending excess baggage via cargo, please visit our cargo section.