How is import duty calculated in South Africa?

Import duty in South Africa is calculated on the FOB (Free on Board) value of goods using rates from SARS Schedule 1 Part 1. The duty rate depends on the HS (Harmonised System) code of your product and may be reduced under trade agreements like EU/UK, EFTA, SADC, MERCOSUR, or AfCFTA. Duty types include ad valorem (percentage of value), specific (per unit/weight), or compound (higher of the two).

What is the VAT rate on imports to South Africa?

The standard VAT rate on imports to South Africa is 15%. VAT is calculated on the customs value (CIF value) plus any customs duty payable. If freight and insurance costs are not declared, SARS applies a 10% uplift on the FOB value for VAT calculation purposes.

Do I need to pay duty on goods under R500?

No. South Africa has a de minimis threshold of R500. Goods with a FOB value below R500 are exempt from customs duty. However, VAT at 15% still applies to all imported goods regardless of value.

What trade agreements does South Africa have?

South Africa has preferential trade agreements including: EU/UK Economic Partnership Agreement, EFTA Free Trade Agreement, SADC Trade Protocol, MERCOSUR Preferential Trade Agreement, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). These agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate customs duty when a valid Certificate of Origin is provided.

What documents do I need to import goods into South Africa?

Essential documents include: Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading or Air Waybill, and a SAD500 customs declaration for shipments over R50,000. If claiming preferential trade agreement rates, a Certificate of Origin (EUR.1, EUR-MED, SADC CoO, or Form A depending on the agreement) is required. Some goods may also require import permits from ITAC.

How do I find the HS code for my product?

Use the JLog HS Code Search tool to find the correct Harmonised System code for your product. You can search by product name or description, and the tool covers over 11,800 South African tariff codes across 25 categories. The HS code determines your customs duty rate, so accurate classification is essential.

South Africa Import Duty & Tax Calculator

Calculate customs duty, VAT, and total landed cost for importing goods into South Africa. Covers 11,800+ HS codes with live SARS exchange rates.

💡 How It Works

Find Your HS Code

Search by product name or code number

Enter Value

FOB value in any supported currency

Select Origin

Trade agreement rates applied automatically

Get Result

Full duty + VAT + landed cost breakdown

🧮 Import Cost Calculator

HS Code

Product Value (FOB)

Currency

Incoterms Buyer pays freight & insurance from port of origin

Freight Cost (ZAR) Leave blank for SARS 10% uplift

Insurance (ZAR)

Origin Country

Weight (kg) For specific/compound duty rates

JLog — Import Duty & Landed Cost Estimate

📈 Landed Cost Breakdown

Incoterms

FOB Value

Exchange Rate

FOB Value (ZAR)

+ Freight

+ Insurance

= CIF Value

Customs Duty

= Value for VAT

VAT (15%)

SARS Processing Fee

Customs Broker (estimate)

TOTAL LANDED COST

View full HS code details →

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