US to NZ - Customs Fees - How is Value Determined?

[CitizenSam]

Hi Folks,

We are starting the process of pricing out shipping furniture, kitchen items, electronics etc. for our move from the US to Wellington. My wife is going to be on a Student visa and I hoping for Silver Fern. As best I can tell, both those visas require us to pay Duty on our goods. My understanding so far is that Customs will determine the value of our goods once they reach New Zealand, and we'll get a bill. Does anyone know how the value of the goods is determined? For instance, we have a couch that was really expensive 8 years ago, but I probably couldn't get more than $500 for it now if I sold it. How would Customs price that?

I would appreciate any insight someone has into the customs process.

Thanks!

[Heide A]

Hello,

Just curious: did you ever got an answer to your customs fee question? Thanks for sharing any info you may have.

Heide

[CitizenSam]

Not entirely. As best as I understand it now, I declare the value on the paperwork which is subject to scrutiny by Customs.