Question 1

What import duties apply when shipping from South Africa to Germany?

Accepted Answer

Under the EU-SADC Economic Partnership Agreement, goods shipped from South Africa to Germany may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates. A Certificate of Origin is typically required. Without preferential treatment, MFN duty rates of 0% - 3.5% apply depending on the HS code.

Question 2

What is the VAT/GST rate in Germany?

Accepted Answer

Germany charges MwSt 19% on imported goods. This is calculated on the CIF value plus import duty.

Question 3

How long does shipping take from South Africa to Germany?

Accepted Answer

Air freight: approximately 2 business days. Sea freight: approximately 18 business days

Question 4

What documents are needed to ship from South Africa to Germany?

Accepted Answer

Required documents typically include: Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading or Airway Bill, and Customs Declaration Form. To claim preferential duty rates under the EU-SADC Economic Partnership Agreement, a Certificate of Origin is also required.

HS Code	Description	General Rate	Preferential Rate
4602.19	Basketwork, wickerwork and other articles	2.7%	0%
6913.10	Ceramic statuettes and ornaments — porcelain	0%	0%
6913.90	Other ceramic ornaments	0%	0%
7013.99	Other glassware — decorative	3.5%	0%
9401.61	Upholstered wooden seats	2.7%	0%
9403.30	Wooden office furniture	2.7%	0%
9403.50	Wooden bedroom furniture	2.7%	0%
9403.60	Other wooden furniture	2.7%	0%
9701.10	Paintings, drawings, pastels — hand-executed	0%	0%
9701.90	Other paintings and drawings	0%	0%

Shipping from South Africa to Germany