gtag('config', 'G-RC8JJRR6QM'); Coastal Shipping | New Zealand | RPC Logistics

Coastal Shipping

Cost-Effective Inter-Island Transport Solutions

Domestic Sea Freight

09 63 444 63

Coastal Shipping – Smarter Freight for Bulk and Long-Haul Deliveries

Coastal shipping is one of the most efficient and sustainable ways to move large or less time-sensitive freight across New Zealand. It’s ideal for bulkier, palletised, or non-urgent cargo that can take a little longer to arrive in exchange for lower transport costs.

At RPC Logistics, we handle the entire process — from booking your vessel space to organising wharf transport at both ends. While many coastal shipments move between the North and South Islands — commonly Auckland and Christchurch — we can arrange sailings to and from other ports nationwide.

Depending on your needs, we can utilise either international vessels (slower but more economical) or domestic coastal services (faster and more frequent). We’ll work with you to balance time, cost, and service reliability — finding the option that best fits your supply chain.

Why Choose Coastal Shipping?

Coastal freight offers a reliable, cost-effective, and lower-emission alternative to long-distance road transport. For businesses moving high volumes or replenishing stock across regions, it can be a smart addition to a broader logistics plan.

Lower cost per pallet or cubic metre for bulk freight.

Reduced carbon footprint compared to long-haul road freight.

Consistent sailing schedules for regular shipments.

Less congestion risk from road network delays.

Ideal for manufacturing and 3PL distribution flows nationwide.

Our Coastal Shipping Services Include

  • Coastal freight services around New Zealand, including the Auckland–Christchurch route.
  • Options for both international vessels (cost-effective) and domestic operators (faster transit).
  • Door-to-door logistics, including pickup and final delivery.
  • Integration with RPC’s national road transport network.
  • 3PL warehousing and distribution in Auckland, Christchurch, and key regions.
  • Full-service management of bookings, port operations, and inland transport.

When Coastal Shipping Works Best

Coastal freight is ideal for:

North Island Manufacturers

Ideal for manufacturers replenishing South Island 3PL sites like Christchurch — efficient bulk movement without the long-haul road pressure.

Auckland Importers

Perfect for importers distributing nationwide. Regular sailings keep products moving smoothly across New Zealand.

Predictable Order Cycles

For businesses with consistent demand, scheduled sailings ensure timely replenishment and cost efficiency.

If your freight is bulkier, palletised, or non-urgent, coastal shipping can significantly reduce transport spend while maintaining reliability. And with RPC coordinating both ends, it’s a smooth, transparent process from start to finish.

How RPC Makes It Simple

RPC Logistics takes care of the entire coastal shipping process, so you only deal with one trusted partner. Because RPC owns both warehouses and our own fleet of trucks, everything happens under one roof — no handovers between different providers. That means less risk, faster turnaround times, and greater confidence for our clients.

We manage:

  • Vessel bookings and documentation.
  • Transport to and from ports using our own fleet.
  • Coordination of loading and unloading with port operators.
  • Delivery or warehousing on arrival, including 3PL support in Christchurch and other major centres.

Get a Quote

To discuss how RPC Logistics may be able to assist with your Managing Warehousing (3PL) and transport requirements, please fill out the form and we will respond to your enquiry promptly.

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Key Contact Details

PHONE
09 63 444 63

EMAIL
Transport: transport@rpcnz.co.nz
Warehousing: warehouse@rpcnz.co.nz
Administration: office@rpcnz.co.nz
Sales: sales@rpcnz.co.nz

FAX
Admin: 09 634 0331
Operations: 09 634 4566
After Hours: 09 638 4280