Search any product to find its Harmonized System (HS) tariff code, South African import duty rate, and calculate your total landed cost — instantly and free.
This free HS code lookup tool is provided by JLog, a registered SARS customs clearing agent based in Woodstock, Cape Town. JLog uses HS codes daily for customs clearance on international shipments of art, furniture, wine, e-commerce goods, and general cargo.
HS codes (Harmonized System codes) are the internationally standardised numerical classification used by SARS and customs authorities worldwide to identify traded products. Every import and export through South African customs requires a correct HS tariff code — it determines your duty rate, VAT liability, and whether permits are needed. Use this free tool to look up the most likely HS code for your goods and estimate your total import costs.
Try: painting furniture wine laptop clothing ceramics books personal effects
Enter your shipment values to estimate the total import cost.
Estimates only. HS code classification depends on exact product details. Contact JLog for precise classification.
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How It Works
Find the right tariff code and estimate your import costs in four simple steps.
Type a product description — material, type, or common name — into the search bar above.
Browse the matching codes with duty rates, descriptions, and any special requirements.
Click a code, enter your product value, freight, and insurance to calculate the landed cost.
Contact JLog for verified classification and end-to-end customs clearing.
Quick Reference
The most frequently used tariff codes for goods imported and exported through South Africa.
| Product | HS Code | Duty | VAT | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oil paintings | 9701.21 | 0% | 15% | Original artworks |
| Sculptures | 9703.00 | 0% | 15% | Original works |
| Prints & lithographs | 4911.91 | 0% | 15% | Printed pictures |
| Antiques (100+ years) | 9706.00 | 0% | 15% | Certificate required |
| Wooden furniture | 9403.60 | 20% | 15% | Varies by trade agreement |
| Metal furniture | 9401.79 | 20% | 15% | Seats and chairs |
| Bottled wine | 2204.21 | 25% | 15% | + excise duty applies |
| Laptops | 8471.30 | 0% | 15% | ITA zero duty |
| Mobile phones | 8517.13 | 0% | 15% | ICASA type approval |
| T-shirts (knitted) | 6109.10 | 45% | 15% | Highest clothing rate |
| Books | 4901.99 | 0% | 0% | Duty-free & VAT-exempt |
| Personal effects | 9905.00 | 0% | 0% | DA 304 declaration |
FAQ
An HS (Harmonized System) code is an internationally standardised numerical code used to classify traded products. South Africa uses 8-digit tariff codes based on the 6-digit HS system maintained by the World Customs Organization. The first 6 digits are internationally harmonised, while digits 7-8 are South Africa-specific sub-headings set by SARS. Each code determines the applicable import duty rate, VAT treatment, and whether permits are needed.
Start by describing your product as specifically as possible — material, function, and intended use all affect classification. Use a lookup tool like this one to find the most likely HS code range. For definitive classification, consult a licensed customs broker like JLog. Incorrect classification can result in overpaid duties, penalties, or shipment delays, so professional verification is recommended for high-value or unusual goods.
South African import duty rates range from 0% to over 45% depending on the product classification. Original artworks and antiques (HS 97) are typically duty-free. Electronics and IT equipment often attract 0% under the ITA. Furniture ranges from 0-20%, clothing from 30-45%, and wine around 23-25% plus excise duty. Trade agreements with the EU (SADC EPA), SACU members, and other partners can reduce or eliminate duties.
Total landed cost = CIF value + import duty + VAT. CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) is the goods value plus freight and insurance costs to South Africa. Import duty is a percentage of the CIF value determined by the HS code. VAT at 15% is then applied to the CIF value plus the duty amount. For example, goods worth R100,000 CIF with a 20% duty rate: duty = R20,000, VAT = 15% of R120,000 = R18,000, total landed cost = R138,000.
Some products require import permits or certificates. These include: wine and alcohol (ITAC permit + excise licence), electronics with wireless capabilities (ICASA type approval), certain foodstuffs (DALRRD phytosanitary certificate), pharmaceuticals (SAHPRA registration), and goods containing controlled substances. Personal effects may require a DA 304 declaration. A licensed customs broker can advise on all permit requirements.
Get Expert Classification
JLog is a registered SARS customs clearing agent. We classify every shipment correctly — no overpaid duties, no penalties, no delays.
Our customs team will be in touch within 24 hours with your classification.