IOR Africa
IOR Africa

Importing to South Africa

IOR Africa: Your Importer of Record Experts in South Africa

Taxes: Up To 15%

Duties: Up to 10%

Lead Time: 1 Week

Best carrier option: Freight Forwarder

  • Narcotic
  • habit-forming drugs in any form Fully automatic
  • military
  • unnumbered weapons
  • explosives
  • fireworks Poison other toxic substances Cigarettes with a mass of more than 2 kilograms per 1000 Goods to which a trade description or trademark is applied in contravention of any Act
Documents Required

Documents Requirements for South Africa Customs:

  • Commercial Invoice

  • Packing List

  • Air WayBill

Common Challenges When Importing to South Africa

Importing goods into South Africa requires navigating strict compliance rules and multiple government agencies. From timely customs declaration filings to specialized permits, businesses must prepare carefully to avoid costly delays, penalties, and shipment holds.

1

Timely Declarations and Inspections

Failure to declare goods promptly can result in them being placed in a state warehouse. Once there, they may undergo inspection by customs and other agencies, causing delays and additional costs.

2

Permit Requirements for Restricted Goods

All restricted imports require a valid permit from the Department of Trade and Industry. These permits are highly specific—they apply only to designated goods, authorized parties, and a limited validity period, typically the calendar year.

3

Temporary Imports and ATA Carnets

South Africa allows the temporary importation of samples, exhibition goods, and certain professional equipment through ATA Carnets. However, navigating the customs-clearance stage under this scheme requires an authorization letter from the exporter, adding an extra compliance step.

4

Strict Controls on Used and Secondhand Goods

To comply with the Basel Convention, South Africa enforces strict rules on importing used equipment, electronics, aircraft parts, waste, and scrap. Importers must obtain special import permits issued by the South African government to avoid penalties and the risk of shipment rejection.

How to Overcome These Challenges

By working with IOR Africa, businesses can:

Secure authorization for temporary import schemes

Ensure timely and accurate customs declarations and all required customs documentation submissions.

Manage import and export permit requirements for South Africa with ease and without delays.

Navigate regulations for used and secondhand goods compliantly

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