Expert Import & Export Services in Johannesburg

To import goods into South Africa, you need: Commercial Invoice (4 copies + 1 original), Bill of Lading (1 negotiable + 2 non-negotiable copies), Packing List (3 copies), Insurance Certificate (for sea freight), DA59 Declaration of Origin (when applicable), Import Permit from ITAC (for restricted goods), and Single Administrative Document (SAD) for customs clearance. SARS requires registration with an importer code before clearance can proceed. Additional documents may be required depending on the type of goods being imported.

Yes, if you import goods for resale more than 3 times per year or to a value exceeding R50,000, you need an import license. Registration with SARS as an importer is mandatory, and you must obtain an importer code. Additionally, restricted goods (including most used and second-hand items) require ITAC permits. The process typically takes 5-25 working days depending on your documentation readiness and the complexity of your imports. Flexagon Freight can expedite this process with our expertise and SARS relationships.

An ITAC (International Trade Administration Commission) permit is required when importing or exporting regulated goods in South Africa. This includes most used and second-hand items, certain agricultural products, strategic goods, metal waste and scrap, and other controlled commodities. ITAC permits ensure goods meet safety, quality, environmental, and health requirements. The permit is only valid for the goods, class, and country specified, and is non-transferable. ITAC permits are typically valid only for the calendar year in which they're issued. Our team handles all ITAC applications efficiently to avoid shipment delays.

Standard customs clearance in South Africa allows 7 days for loose or break bulk cargo imported by sea, air, or rail. An additional 7 days may be granted (14 days total) for such cargo. Container depot goods have 28 days for clearance from the time they land in the Republic. However, with proper documentation and SARS-accredited brokers like Flexagon Freight, same-day clearance is often achievable. Delays typically occur due to incomplete documentation, missing permits, or customs inspections. Our expert team ensures all documentation is complete to minimize clearance time.

Export documentation requirements include: Commercial Invoice (signed and dated with full product descriptions), Bill of Lading or Airway Bill, Packing List (detailed contents), Certificate of Origin (DA59 for trade agreement countries), Export Declaration (usually electronic via customs system), Export Permit from ITAC (for restricted goods like strategic goods, metal scrap, certain agricultural products), Health Certificates or Veterinary Certificates (if required for animal/plant products). All exporters must register with SARS Customs to obtain an 8-digit export code (often called export license or CCN). This code tracks all exports and ensures foreign exchange compliance.

Import and export service costs vary based on several factors: shipment type (sea/air/road), documentation complexity, permits required (ITAC, health certificates), cargo value and weight, destination/origin country, and urgency of clearance. Professional clearing and forwarding fees typically range from R1,500 to R5,000+ per shipment. Additional costs may include customs duties, VAT, port handling charges, storage fees, and transportation. For accurate quotes tailored to your specific requirements, contact Flexagon Freight at +27 73 326 0521. We provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

The DA59 Declaration of Origin is a prescribed form used to certify the country of origin of goods being imported into or exported from South Africa. It's required when claiming preferential duty rates under trade agreements (like SADC, SACU), or for goods subject to anti-dumping or countervailing duties. The form has a stipulated format, size, and content, and must include country of origin, goods description, weight, and other details. One original signed copy must be attached to the original commercial invoice. Unlike some countries, South Africa does not require Chamber of Commerce certification or customs stamps on DA59 forms. Our team ensures proper completion of all DA59 forms to maximize your duty savings.

Yes, Flexagon Freight handles imports and exports for virtually all commodity types including general cargo, machinery and equipment, electronics, textiles and clothing, foodstuffs (with proper health certificates), pharmaceuticals, automotive parts and vehicles, agricultural products, building materials, chemicals (with safety documentation), used and second-hand goods (with ITAC permits), and strategic goods. We have experience with South Africa's approximately 90,000 product tariff codes defined by SARS. Some goods require special permits, health certificates, or veterinary approvals, which we handle on your behalf. We also manage prohibited and restricted goods in compliance with all regulations. Contact us to discuss your specific commodity requirements.