When booking car transport across Australia, it’s easy to assume the process is the same everywhere. But each state and territory has its own road rules and logistical quirks, which can impact how and where your vehicle is picked up, delivered, or handled.

Whether you’re relocating, selling a car interstate, or buying one at auction, understanding these state-specific differences can help you avoid delays, unexpected fees, or compliance issues.

At National Car Movers, we take care of the legwork for you, comparing 30+ trusted carriers and ensuring your vehicle is moved safely, efficiently and within the rules.

Why Transport Laws Vary Between States

In Australia, road and vehicle transport laws are regulated both federally and at the state/territory level. While national standards apply across the board (like ADR compliance and vehicle registration rules), each state can introduce its own variations for:

• Unregistered vehicle movement
• Vehicle size and modification compliance
• Road access and depot locations
• Transport inspection requirements

These state-based regulations become especially important if:

• You’re moving a non-running or damaged vehicle
• The vehicle is unregistered or modified
• You’re dropping off or collecting from regional or remote locations
• The car was purchased from a dealer, auction house or private seller in another state
  

Key Vehicle Transport Rules by State

Below is a breakdown of important transport rules and restrictions by region:

New South Wales (NSW)

• Unregistered vehicles must be transported, not driven, even short distances between depots.
• Larger or modified vehicles may require pre-approval for transport.
• Some Sydney metro depots may have height or access restrictions.
  

Victoria (VIC)

• Stricter emissions and noise regulations apply, particularly for imports and engine modifications.
• A VicRoads Temporary Movement Permit may be required if driving an unregistered vehicle to or from a depot.
• Collection from central Melbourne may involve toll roads or congestion zones.
  

Queensland (QLD)

• Vehicles arriving in QLD for registration may need an inspection under the Transport Operations Regulation (Vehicle Standards and Safety).
• Remote or rural pickups may require coordination due to road width/access limits.
  

Western Australia (WA)

• If your vehicle is modified or lowered, you may need to notify the carrier or provide clearance measurements.
• Some regional vehicles (e.g. Broome, Kalgoorlie, Karratha) must be trucked to Perth first for interstate connections.
• Ground clearance matters for insurance and loading safety.
  

South Australia (SA), Tasmania (TAS), NT & ACT

• Generally follow national standards but may have additional local depot or freight requirements.
• Tasmania: If shipping by ferry (e.g. Spirit of Tasmania), marine freight safety rules apply.
• NT: Consider additional protection against dust, UV and heat if the vehicle will sit at a depot for an extended time.

Are There Restrictions on What You Can Pack in Your Vehicle?

This varies by carrier, some allow personal items in the vehicle, while others do not. Always check with your transport provider before packing anything inside.

If permitted, typical guidelines may include:

• No loose items on seats or visible through windows
• Items must be securely packed, ideally in the boot or below window level
• Weight limits may apply depending on the carrier
• Personal belongings are not usually covered by freight insurance
  

While some states (like WA and QLD) may have stricter rules around biosecurity, it’s ultimately up to the carrier whether packed goods are accepted. To avoid complications, it’s best to limit what you pack and always confirm first. For more details on what’s allowed and how different carriers handle this, see our guide.

How Can You Ensure Compliance When Transporting a Car Interstate?

To avoid delays or penalties when moving your car interstate:

• Use a reputable car transport provider familiar with each state’s regulations
• Provide accurate vehicle details during the quote process (modifications, condition, size)
• If the car was bought at auction, make sure all paperwork is completed before drop-off 
• Confirm the vehicle is clean, roadworthy, and has adequate tyre pressure
• Choose a service with tracking and support
  

At National Car Movers, we do the heavy lifting, comparing 30+ providers and ensuring every quote includes state-compliant logistics and insurance-ready details.

Book Your Vehicle Transport Through National Car Movers

When it comes to state-specific laws and vehicle logistics, you want an expert on your side. That’s where we come in.

With National Car Movers, you get:

• Access to 30+ fully compliant transport carriers
• Up-to-date knowledge of each state’s regulations
• Expert support for non-running, luxury, or modified vehicles

Avoid legal hassles and move your car with confidence. Whether you’re going from Sydney to Perth, Melbourne to Brisbane, or anywhere in between, we’ve got you covered.

Get your tailored quote now or call us to speak to our transport specialists. Have questions? Contact us here

Note: This is a general approach and each carrier and service company handle things differently. 

Whether you’re relocating for work, buying a car interstate, or sending a vehicle to family, transporting a car from Perth to Melbourne doesn’t need to be complicated. At National Car Movers, we make the process smooth, affordable, and stress-free by comparing over 30 of Australia’s top-rated vehicle transport companies.

From flexible delivery options to real-time tracking and custom quotes, we ensure your vehicle gets from A to B safely and at the best possible price.

Read more

Note: This is a general approach and each carrier and service company handle things differently. 

Need to shift your motorbike across the country? Whether you’re relocating, buying a bike online, or sending it to a mate, organising motorcycle transport in Australia doesn’t have to be a drama. With the right help, you can get your bike moved safely and efficiently, without clocking up unnecessary kilometres or risking damage.

At National Car Movers, we make it easy. Our team works with over 30 trusted Australian carriers to offer interstate motorcycle transport services that are quick, reliable, and fully insured.

Why More Riders Are Using Motorcycle Transport Services

Thanks to Australia’s massive distances and the rise in online bike sales, more riders are turning to enclosed vehicle transport instead of tackling the trip themselves. Whether it’s from Perth to Melbourne or Sydney to Brisbane, riding cross-country can be time-consuming, expensive, and hard on the bike.

That’s why enclosed motorcycle transport is the go-to solution, no wear and tear, no fuel costs, and no risk from weather or road debris.

Best Way to Transport a Motorbike

In Australia, enclosed transport is the standard for motorcycles. Unlike in some other countries, open bike transport isn’t widely available here, and for good reason. With long distances, unpredictable weather, and strict insurance requirements, keeping your bike in a covered truck is the safest option.

Your bike is:

• Secured using professional tie-down systems
• Protected from dust, wind, rain, and sun
• Monitored with real-time tracking
• Covered by full damage insurance from pickup to drop-off

It’s the best way to move everything from daily commuters to classic bikes and performance machines.

How Does Motorcycle Transport Work?

Booking a bike move with National Car Movers is straightforward:

1. Head to our Motorcycle transport page and pop in your pickup and delivery details
2. Compare quotes from Aussie-based transport providers
3. Choose a service type (door-to-door, depot-to-depot, etc.)
4. Book online and get full tracking until delivery
   

We handle the legwork for you, no chasing up multiple companies or spending hours calling around. 

What Impacts the Cost of Motorcycle Transport?

There’s no one-size-fits-all price because every transport job is different. A few things that will impact your final quote include:

• The distance between pickup and drop-off
• Whether you’re in a metro area or a regional town
• The size and type of your motorbike
• Whether you need express delivery
• Choice of service

For an accurate cost, get a no-obligation quote based on your route and timing.

Can You Pack Stuff With Your Motorcycle?

Some carriers will let you include a few bits like saddlebags or a helmet but others won’t. It really depends on the provider, and any items must be packed securely and declared up front. Keep in mind that personal items generally aren’t covered by insurance.

We recommend transporting your gear separately unless your carrier specifically allows it. 

We service nearly every part of Australia, including remote and regional locations. Some of our most popular motorbike transport routes include:

• Melbourne to Perth
• Sydney to Melbourne
• Brisbane to Adelaide
• Perth to Sydney

No matter the route, we’ll sort out the best carrier for the job and make sure your bike arrives safely.

Tips for a Stress-Free Bike Move

Before handing your motorbike over, here are a few things to tick off:

• Give your bike a quick wash so any marks or dings are easy to spot
• Take timestamped photos from all sides
• Remove loose accessories or aftermarket add-ons
• Make sure the tyres are inflated and the bike can roll freely
• Be on time for pickup or drop-off

Following these steps makes the process smoother and helps protect your rights in the rare case of damage during transit.

Get Your Motorcycle Moved the Easy Way

At National Car Movers, we take the hassle out of interstate motorcycle transport. Whether you’re moving a road bike, cruiser, sports bike or vintage ride, we’ll help you find a trusted provider at the right price.

• Fully enclosed, insured transport
• Real-time tracking
• Local Aussie support team

Got questions? Contact our friendly team — we’re here to help.