How to Import Goods Into South Africa — Complete Beginner's Guide

Importing goods into South Africa for the first time can feel overwhelming. Between SARS registration, customs documentation, HS codes, and duty calculations, there's a lot to navigate. This guide walks you through the entire process, step by step.

Step 1: Register With SARS as an Importer

Before you can import goods, you must register as a customs client with the South African Revenue Service. Full SARS registration guide →

What you need:

• Valid South African ID or passport
• Business registration documents (if importing commercially)
• Tax clearance certificate
• Proof of banking
• SARS customs client number application

Once registered, SARS assigns you a customs code that appears on all your import declarations.

Step 2: Classify Your Goods

Every product imported into South Africa must be classified under the Harmonised System using an HS code. This 8-digit code determines:

• The applicable customs duty rate
• Whether you need an import permit
• Any anti-dumping duties
• VAT rate

V & S Freight's clearing team accurately classifies your goods to ensure correct duty payment. Getting this wrong can be costly.

Step 3: Check for Import Permits

Certain goods require licences or permits from ITAC (International Trade Administration Commission) before they can enter South Africa:

• Foodstuffs — Health certificates, DAFF permits
• Second-hand goods — ITAC approval required
• Chemicals and hazardous materials — Department of Environmental Affairs
• Medicines and health products — SAHPRA registration
• Animals and plants — Phytosanitary and veterinary permits

Check if you need a permit →

Step 4: Find a Supplier and Agree on Terms

When sourcing goods internationally, agree on:

• Price and payment terms — T/T, letter of credit, or other method
• Incoterms — defines who pays for what during shipping. Common terms:
• EXW — you arrange everything from the factory
• FOB — supplier loads goods onto vessel, you pay freight
• CIF — supplier pays freight and insurance to destination port
• DDP — supplier delivers to your door, fully paid

Step 5: Arrange Freight

Choose a transport mode based on your cargo:

• Sea freight — cost-effective for most imports (25-35 days from Asia)
• Air freight — fast but expensive (3-7 days)
• Road freight — for imports from neighbouring countries

V & S Freight handles all freight booking, tracking, and coordination. Get a quote →

Step 6: Prepare Documentation

Gather these documents before your cargo arrives:

• ✅ Commercial invoice (with accurate product descriptions and values)
• ✅ Packing list (detailed weights and dimensions)
• ✅ Bill of lading (sea) or airway bill (air)
• ✅ Certificate of origin (for preferential tariffs)
• ✅ Import permit (if required)
• ✅ Any specialist certificates (phytosanitary, NRCS, etc.)

Complete documents checklist →

Step 7: Customs Clearance

When your cargo arrives at Durban Port or King Shaka Airport, your clearing agent (that's us!) lodges a customs entry with SARS via EDI:

1. Entry is submitted electronically
2. SARS processes the declaration
3. Customs duty and VAT are calculated and paid
4. Goods are released (unless flagged for CBCU inspection)

Clearance typically takes 1-3 business days with correct documentation.

Step 8: Pay Duty and VAT

Customs duty: Ranges from 0% to 45% depending on the product HS code. Examples:

• Electronics: 0-15%
• Clothing: 40-45%
• Machinery: 0-10%
• Vehicles: 25%

Import VAT: 15% calculated on the Added Tax Value (ATV), which includes the customs value, a 10% uplift, and duty. See full calculation →

Use our cost estimator →

Step 9: Collect or Receive Delivery

Once cleared, you can:

• Collect from port yourself
• Have V & S Freight deliver via road freight — door-to-door
• Store in our warehouse until you're ready

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not registering with SARS first — You cannot clear goods without a customs code
2. Wrong HS code — Leads to over/under payment and potential penalties
3. Incomplete documents — Delays clearance and incurs demurrage charges
4. Undervaluing goods — SARS treats this as fraud. Always declare accurate values
5. Ignoring permit requirements — Goods without required permits will be stopped
6. Not using a clearing agent — DIY clearing is risky and time-consuming

Need Help?

V & S Freight guides first-time importers through every step. Contact us or request a quote. We'll handle the complexity.

Call: 076 982 0036 | Email: vsfreight@telkomsa.net