jlog.co.za | +27 21 300 6099 | info@jlog.co.za
jlog.co.za | +27 21 300 6099 | info@jlog.co.za
Complete Export Guide
Everything you need to know about exporting goods from South Africa — from SARS registration and HS codes to customs documentation, permits, packaging, and international shipping.
Chapter 1
If you are sending commercial goods from South Africa to another country, you are exporting. This applies whether you are a manufacturer shipping your own products, a retailer fulfilling international orders, an artist sending work to an overseas gallery, a wine estate shipping cases to a distributor in London, or an e-commerce business posting parcels to customers abroad. Even one-off shipments of commercial value require formal customs clearance.
South African exporters broadly fall into several categories, each with different logistics needs and regulatory requirements:
Any shipment leaving South Africa with a commercial value exceeding R50,000 (or any shipment intended for commercial sale, regardless of value) must be formally declared to SARS through the customs system. Below this threshold, courier companies may handle simplified customs declarations, but the goods still need accurate classification and documentation. If you plan to export regularly, you should register with SARS as an exporter — this unlocks benefits including faster processing, electronic submissions, and the ability to use preferential trade agreements.
If this is your first export from South Africa, you do not need to figure everything out alone. JLog handles every step — from SARS registration to delivery at the destination. Get a free consultation and we will walk you through the process for your specific product and destination.
Chapter 2
Before you can export commercial goods from South Africa, you need to be registered with SARS and, in some cases, with the International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC). Here is the process, step by step.
Every exporter must have a customs code issued by the South African Revenue Service. This is your unique identifier in the customs system. To apply, you submit a DA185 (Registration and Licensing of Customs and Excise Clients) form along with supporting documents including your company registration certificate (CIPC), tax clearance certificate, proof of business address, director ID copies, and a bank confirmation letter. SARS typically processes applications within 5 to 10 business days.
To submit customs declarations directly to SARS, you need to be a Registered Licensed Agent (RLA). This requires a separate registration process, qualified customs personnel, and a substantial security deposit. For most businesses, this is impractical. The simpler and more common approach is to appoint a licensed customs broker like JLog to submit declarations on your behalf. Your broker acts as your agent within the SARS system, handling all electronic submissions, queries, and compliance requirements.
All customs declarations in South Africa are submitted electronically through the SARS EDI system. If you are using a customs broker, they handle this on your behalf through their own EDI connection. If you are registering as an RLA, you need to set up an approved EDI connection to the SARS customs system, which involves technical integration and testing.
While it is technically possible to handle your own export customs clearance, the process requires specialist knowledge of tariff classification, regulatory compliance, and the SARS electronic system. Errors can result in shipment delays, penalties, or seizure of goods. A customs broker brings expertise, an established EDI connection, relationships with SARS officials, and the ability to resolve issues quickly. For most exporters, the cost of a broker (typically R500 to R2,000 per shipment) is a fraction of the cost of a single customs error.
JLog is a registered SARS customs clearing agent with in-house customs expertise — no third-party broker required. We handle SARS registration, EDI submissions, and all customs processes directly. Learn more about our customs services.
Chapter 3
Every product you export must be assigned a Harmonised System (HS) code — a standardised numerical classification used by customs authorities worldwide to identify traded products. South Africa uses 8-digit tariff codes based on the international 6-digit HS standard, with two additional digits for national specificity.
The HS code you assign to your goods determines several critical outcomes:
The correct HS code for your product is determined by its material composition, function, and intended use — not by its brand name, marketing description, or what you call it internally. Classification requires knowledge of the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonised System and the specific section and chapter notes. Getting it wrong is one of the most common and costly export mistakes.
JLog's customs team classifies goods for every shipment we handle. If you need to look up an HS code yourself, use our free HS Code Lookup Tool, which searches the South African tariff schedule. You can also estimate the landed cost of goods at the destination using our Duty Calculator.
Incorrect HS classification can result in shipment delays, duty overpayment or underpayment, penalties from customs authorities, and even seizure of goods. If you are unsure about the correct code for your product, consult a customs broker before shipping. A single misclassified shipment can cost more in penalties and delays than a year of broker fees.
Chapter 4
Getting your paperwork right is arguably the most important step in the export process. Incomplete or incorrect documentation is the number one cause of shipment delays, customs holds, and penalty charges. Here are the core documents you need for every export from South Africa.
| Document | Purpose | Who Prepares It |
|---|---|---|
| SAD500 | Single Administrative Document — the official SARS export declaration submitted electronically | Customs broker / exporter |
| Commercial Invoice | Details of the goods, seller, buyer, value, currency, payment terms, Incoterms | Exporter |
| Packing List | Package-by-package breakdown: contents, dimensions, weights | Exporter / logistics provider |
| Bill of Lading (B/L) | Sea freight: contract of carriage, receipt of goods, document of title | Shipping line / freight forwarder |
| Air Waybill (AWB) | Air freight: contract of carriage and receipt of goods | Airline / freight forwarder |
| Certificate of Origin (CoO) | Proves where the goods were manufactured — required for preferential trade agreements | Chamber of Commerce / exporter |
The SAD500 (Single Administrative Document) is the official customs declaration submitted to SARS for every export consignment. It contains the exporter’s customs code, consignee details, HS tariff codes for each item, values, weights, and the customs procedure code. The SAD500 is submitted electronically through the SARS EDI system, and once accepted, the goods are cleared for export. Your customs broker submits this on your behalf. For a deeper look at customs documentation, see our DA65 customs guide.
Your commercial invoice is the single most important supporting document. It must include: a clear description of the goods (not internal product codes), the HS tariff code, quantity and unit of measure, unit price and total value in the currency of sale, the Incoterm (e.g. FOB, CIF, DDP), buyer and seller details with full addresses, and the country of origin of the goods. Customs authorities at both the origin and destination will review this document closely.
A Certificate of Origin (CoO) proves where your goods were manufactured or substantially transformed. This is essential if you want to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), SADC Trade Protocol, or the EU-SADC Economic Partnership Agreement. Without a valid CoO, your buyer may pay full Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rates instead of the reduced preferential rate. Certificates are issued by the South African Chamber of Business (SACOB) or regional chambers of commerce.
JLog handles all customs paperwork in-house — from SAD500 submissions to certificates of origin.
Chapter 5
While most commercial goods can leave South Africa without a specific export permit, there are important exceptions. Failing to obtain the required permits before shipping can result in your goods being seized at the port, significant fines, and even criminal prosecution.
The International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC) controls the export of certain categories of goods from South Africa. Products that typically require ITAC export permits include scrap metals (ferrous and non-ferrous), certain chemicals and precursors, diamonds and precious metals (also regulated by the South African Diamond and Precious Metals Regulator), and certain agricultural products under quota. ITAC permit applications can take 4 to 8 weeks, so plan ahead.
If your goods contain materials from endangered species — ivory, certain hardwoods, animal skins, bone, tortoiseshell, or other protected materials — you need a CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) export permit. This is common for antiques, traditional art, taxidermy, musical instruments with ivory components, and some fashion items. JLog assesses every shipment for CITES requirements. For more detail, see our CITES compliance guide.
The South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) regulates the export of items of cultural heritage significance. Objects over 35 years old, archaeological artefacts, and items of significant national heritage value may require a SAHRA export permit. This applies to antique furniture, vintage art, heritage jewellery, and historical documents. Applications are submitted to SAHRA's Permit Committee and can take 4 to 6 weeks.
If you are exporting plant-based products — fresh fruit, flowers, herbs, timber products, or botanicals — you will likely need a phytosanitary certificate issued by the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD). This certifies that your goods are free from pests and diseases and meet the importing country's plant health requirements. Inspections are conducted at approved facilities before export.
The National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS) oversees product safety standards. While primarily focused on imports, certain exports — particularly electrical equipment, automotive components, and food products — may require NRCS letters of authority confirming compliance with international safety standards expected by the destination market.
South Africa is a member of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), SADC, and has Economic Partnership Agreements with the EU and UK. These agreements provide preferential (reduced or zero) duty rates for South African goods entering partner countries, but only if the goods meet the rules of origin requirements and are accompanied by the correct certificate of origin. Using these agreements correctly can save your buyers thousands of rands in import duties — a significant competitive advantage.
Chapter 6
How you pack and ship your goods directly affects whether they arrive safely, on time, and without customs complications. This chapter covers the key decisions: packaging standards, choosing between air and sea freight, Incoterms, insurance, and cost considerations.
If your shipment uses any wood-based packaging — pallets, crates, dunnage, or skids — it must comply with ISPM 15, the international standard for phytosanitary treatment of wood packaging. All wood must be heat-treated or fumigated and stamped with the official ISPM 15 mark. Non-compliant wood packaging will be rejected at the destination port, resulting in costly delays, re-treatment charges, or destruction of the packaging. JLog's crating workshop produces only ISPM 15 compliant wood packaging. See our custom crating page for details.
Your choice of shipping method depends on urgency, volume, weight, and budget:
Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) define who is responsible for costs, risk, and insurance at each stage of the shipment. The most common for South African exports:
Standard carrier liability covers only a fraction of your goods' value — typically limited to a per-kilogram rate. Comprehensive all-risk transit insurance protects against physical damage, loss, theft, and breakage during the entire journey. Premiums typically range from 0.5% to 2% of the goods' value depending on the commodity, route, and mode of transport. JLog arranges transit insurance through specialist underwriters for every shipment.
The main cost drivers for international shipping from South Africa include:
For packaging guidance specific to your product type, see our packaging guides.
Chapter 7
While the fundamental export process is the same for all goods, specific industries have unique requirements. Here are targeted tips for South Africa's key export sectors.
Fine art exports require specialist packaging (museum-grade crating), accurate HS classification under codes 9701–9706, and potential SAHRA or CITES permits for heritage items or works containing regulated materials. Insurance should be nail-to-nail all-risk through a specialist art insurer, not standard cargo cover. JLog is Cape Town's specialist art logistics provider and official partner for the Investec Cape Town Art Fair.
Wine exports from South Africa require a SAWIS (South African Wine Industry Information & Systems) export certificate, excise documentation, and compliance with the destination country's alcohol import regulations. Temperature-controlled shipping is essential — a single temperature spike during transit can ruin an entire consignment. JLog operates specialist wine export logistics with climate-monitored transport throughout the chain.
South African designer furniture is in demand internationally, but large, heavy, and irregularly shaped pieces present shipping challenges. Proper crating, blanket-wrap protection, and careful handling are essential. HS classification for furniture can be complex — the material, function, and construction method all affect the code. See our furniture export guide for detailed advice.
South African fashion exports need accurate textile classification (fibre content determines the HS code and duty rate), proper labelling meeting destination country requirements, and certificates of origin to access preferential duty rates. For exports to the EU and UK under the Economic Partnership Agreement, rules of origin require that significant manufacturing processes occur in South Africa or other SADC countries.
Food exports require phytosanitary certificates, food safety certifications (HACCP, ISO 22000), and compliance with the importing country's food safety regulations (EU, FDA, etc.). Temperature control, cold chain documentation, and shelf life management are critical. Agricultural products may also be subject to ITAC export quotas or seasonal restrictions.
International e-commerce shipments from South Africa typically go via courier (FedEx, DHL) with simplified customs declarations. Key considerations include correct HS coding for each product line, accurate customs valuations, and understanding the de minimis thresholds in destination countries (below which no duty is charged). JLog's e-commerce fulfillment service handles pick, pack, and ship with integrated customs documentation for international orders.
Chapter 8
After handling thousands of export shipments from South Africa, these are the errors we see most often — and how to prevent them.
The most common and costly error. An incorrect HS code can mean your buyer pays the wrong duty rate, your shipment gets held for inspection, or you face penalties. Always have a qualified customs professional classify your goods.
Missing information on the commercial invoice — no HS code, vague product descriptions, missing Incoterm, or incorrect values — is the top cause of customs delays. Check every field before submitting.
Discovering you need an ITAC, CITES, or SAHRA permit after your goods are already at the port causes expensive delays. Research permit requirements early in the process — ideally before accepting the order.
Shipping goods on untreated wood pallets or in non-ISPM 15 crates will get your shipment rejected at the destination. Ensure all wood packaging is heat-treated and stamped.
Air freight is charged on the greater of actual weight or volumetric weight. Many exporters quote based on actual weight and are surprised by the final cost. Always calculate both and quote on the higher figure.
South Africa has preferential trade agreements with the EU, UK, SADC, and AfCFTA member states. Not providing a certificate of origin means your buyer pays full duty instead of the reduced rate — making your product less competitive.
Goods damaged in transit due to poor packaging are not covered by standard carrier liability. Invest in proper packaging appropriate to the product and transit method. The cost of good packaging is always less than the cost of a damage claim.
Standard carrier liability covers a fraction of your goods' value. Comprehensive all-risk transit insurance costs 0.5–2% of the shipment value. Without it, you carry the full risk of loss or damage.
Exports are zero-rated for VAT, but only if you retain proof of export (stamped SAD500, bill of lading). Without this documentation, SARS can disallow the zero-rating and charge 15% VAT on the sale.
Using DDP when you do not understand the import duties at the destination, or EXW when your buyer cannot arrange collection, leads to unexpected costs and responsibility gaps. Choose your Incoterm carefully and make sure both parties understand their obligations.
Chapter 9
These are the key government agencies, trade bodies, and tools relevant to exporting from South Africa.
Exporter registration, tariff schedules, customs procedures, and EDI information.
Export permit applications, trade remedies, and tariff investigations.
South African Bureau of Standards — product standards, testing, and certification.
National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications — product safety compliance.
Western Cape trade and investment promotion agency. Export support and market intelligence.
Department of Trade, Industry and Competition — trade policy, incentives, and industrial development.
African Continental Free Trade Area — tariff schedules, rules of origin, and implementation.
Southern African Development Community — regional trade protocol and preferential tariffs.
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Download PDF NowFAQ
Yes. Any business exporting commercial goods from South Africa must register as an exporter with SARS and obtain a customs code. This involves completing a DA185 registration form, providing your company registration documents, tax clearance certificate, and proof of address. A customs broker like JLog can submit this registration on your behalf and typically has it processed within 5 to 10 business days.
An HS (Harmonised System) code is a standardised numerical classification used worldwide to identify traded products. Every item you export must be classified under the correct 8-digit tariff code. The HS code determines the duty rate the importer pays at the destination, whether export permits are required, and which trade agreements can be used to reduce duties. Incorrect classification can result in shipment delays, penalties, or seized goods.
The core export documents are: a SAD500 submitted electronically to SARS, a commercial invoice with full details of the goods and their value, a packing list describing each package's contents and dimensions, and a bill of lading (sea freight) or air waybill (air freight). Depending on the product, you may also need a certificate of origin, phytosanitary certificate, CITES permit, NRCS letter of authority, or ITAC export permit.
With correct documentation, most export shipments clear SARS customs within 24 to 48 hours. Shipments that require physical inspection, have documentation discrepancies, or need additional permits may take 3 to 5 business days. Working with an experienced customs broker significantly reduces clearing time because the documentation is submitted correctly the first time.
No. Most commercial goods can be exported without a specific export permit. However, certain categories require permits from ITAC, including scrap metals, certain chemicals, and some agricultural products. Goods containing endangered species materials need CITES permits. Heritage items over 35 years old may need SAHRA clearance. Firearms, medicines, and strategic goods also have specific licensing requirements.
Air freight is faster (3 to 7 days) but more expensive, typically R80 to R200+ per kilogram. Sea freight is much cheaper (R15 to R50 per kilogram) but slower, taking 2 to 8 weeks. Air freight suits time-sensitive, high-value, or lightweight shipments. Sea freight is better for large volumes, heavy goods, or non-urgent deliveries. Many exporters use a combination depending on order urgency.
The most common Incoterms for South African exports are FOB (Free on Board) for sea freight and FCA (Free Carrier) for air freight, where the exporter is responsible until goods are loaded or handed to the carrier. DDP means the exporter covers all costs including import duties. Your choice affects who pays for freight, insurance, customs clearance, and duties. Discuss the best option for your specific trade with your logistics provider.
Yes. JLog is a registered SARS customs clearing agent and full-service logistics provider. We handle every step: SARS registration, HS code classification, customs documentation, export permit applications, packaging and crating, carrier booking, transit insurance, and tracking from collection to delivery. Contact us for a free consultation about your specific export needs.
Related Tools & Guides
Search the South African tariff schedule to find the correct HS code for your product.
Use tool →Estimate import duties and taxes at the destination country for your goods.
Calculate →Understand CITES permit requirements for exporting goods containing regulated materials.
Read guide →JLog's in-house customs clearing services — SARS registered, no third-party broker.
Learn more →Get in Touch
Whether you are making your first international shipment or scaling an established export operation, JLog handles every detail — from customs registration to delivery at the destination. Contact us for a free consultation.
Unit 12C, Nearby Industrial Park, 10 Railway Street, Woodstock, Cape Town, 7925
Monday — Friday, 08:00 — 17:00 SAST
Tell us what you need to export and where. We will respond within 24 hours with a detailed proposal covering customs clearance, shipping options, and costs.