Customs Guide
South African Import Procedures
How imported goods are cleared through SARS Customs, the documents you need and how duty and VAT are worked out.
The Basics
What Import Clearance Means
Every commercial import into South Africa must be declared to SARS Customs before it is released. The declaration lists the tariff code, the customs value and the origin, and the duty and import VAT are paid on it.
A licensed clearing agent prepares and submits the declaration electronically, answers queries from Customs and arranges release and delivery.
Steps
How an Import Is Cleared
Documents
Commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or airway bill, and permits if needed.
Tariff classification
Each product is given the correct tariff code, which sets the duty rate.
Declaration
The customs declaration is submitted to SARS electronically.
Payment and release
Duty and VAT are paid and SARS releases the goods, unless they are stopped for inspection.
Delivery
The goods are collected from the port, airport or depot and delivered.
Documents
What You Need
Calculator
Estimate Duty and Import VAT
Rough estimate only. VAT is 15% of the Added Tax Value: the customs value, plus 10% for goods from outside SACU, plus duty. Clearing fees, port, terminal and freight charges are not included. The correct duty rate depends on the tariff heading, origin and any trade agreement, and your written quote is final.
Questions
Import Procedures: Questions
Tap a question to open the answer. For anything else, WhatsApp us.
Need Goods Cleared?
WhatsApp 068 058 2700 with your invoice and shipping documents.