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Given the various rules and regulations surrounding importing to South Africa, finding a product abroad that you think would take SA by storm can be exciting but a daunting experience when you think of the complicated process that you and the product will go through until the product actually reaches home.

First things first: Get the basics right

The very first step is to find a company that has a commercial invoice to import. Importantly this should not be a proforma invoice.

This commercial invoice will give the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer a thorough description of what the company are importing. This includes a detailed description, precise quantity and the true financial value of the product.

Accuracy is key: No skimping on the small details

The description of the goods being imported needs to be clear, precise and non-generic. For example, instead of stating that you are importing a man’s suit, an indication of the exact materials it is made of, whether it is 100% cotton, polyester etc. is very important, reason being, different materials are charged at different duty rates. An accurate description will prevent confusion and delay in the long run.

The company will also need to specify whether the product is a sample or not, and SARS will check if this has been specified. Samples are mutilated goods, for example a left shoe with drilled holes, or a shirt with a cut out diamond in the back. Stating the accurate commercial value of your products or samples needs to also be stated correctly, as anything found to be undervalued could lead to a hefty fine or trouble with the law.

Working hand-in-hand with SARS

Speaking of SARS, the next stage will be to make sure the company is a registered importer through their straightforward website. A registered company has an importer’s code. With this code they are able to accurately import goods regularly. SARS will then use the code to check the goods against the declared price and for that reason the company must ensure that they are honest and accurate.

An irregular importer though may apply as such, whereby they will be allowed to import products three times a year.

Be knowledgeable around the country of origin

In China alone there are 55 states, each with their own unique rules and duty fees. There is therefore a high chance for suppliers to under-declare the goods for importation.

In this case, it is essential to work hand in hand with a clearing agent from the get-go to ensure that they are aware of the veritable value of the goods being imported. It will then be more likely that the commercial invoice will reflect the true value of the product.

If the  products have been under-declared, there are penalties such as fines or delays that could take anything between 3 and 18 working days

Caution: Avoid these products

There are certain products that are not authorised to enter South Africa. A few examples include:

• Second hand cars
• Certain medications that have not been approved by the medical control council
• Plant material without a license
• Certain animal products – including animal skins
• Certain liquids may not be airfreighted.

If you are importing any goods that might be considered Dangerous Goods (flammable items for example) you must declare these items as such and make sure you provide a Material Safety Data Sheet for their import.

From an exportation perspective, there are military embargoes in certain countries. For example, South Africans cannot export equipment with GPS capabilities to countries such as Iran for the purpose of anti-terrorism support.

Another example is that alcohol may not be exported to certain countries such as Saudi Arabia. South African businesses need to be cognisant of these regulations and should seek consultation from export councils when exporting goods out of the country if uncertain.

Hopefully these simple steps can provide you with a sense of comfort when looking to hire a logistics or freight company to import your product.  DL Cargo can answer any further queries and you may contact us on +27 78 113 0220.