;26 I called a company called 'Autoeasy Search' in Melbourne.
They were only too happy to answer all of my 'dumb novice' questions regarding freight, paperwork etc.
They also do pre-inspections etc
Check their website
http://www.autoezysearch.com.au/I'm about half way in my importation, BUT when it's completed I'll definately let you know. All I can say is so far so good.
There are so many companies importing and the only advice I would give is to ask ANY question you can think of like;
Do they do all the paperwork required?
How are the cars packed? Are they coated with an anti - moisture coat on the body?
Does the container stay with the same ship or does it go on a couple ships? Is the car shipped direct to Australia from California and/or New York?
Is the car insured during transit? What is the TOTAL transit time?
Has the company got an ABN number and what are the 'up front' costs?
Do they give you a list of former customers that you can contact for references?
Do they clean and detail the car for you when it gets here?
Yeah I asked all these questions and MORE !!!!
I figure your money is important and we all work hard for it so don't give it away .....
I guess it's always a risk when you import .... just try to minimise it as much as you can .....
Hope that helps?
:22