Importer & Exporter Customs Registration Made Simple

Customs registration is the process of obtaining a SARS Importer or Exporter code, which allows your business to legally trade goods internationally.

Without this code, shipments may be held, returned, or confiscated by Customs.

Any business or individual importing or exporting goods valued above R20,000 per shipment must register.

Even occasional traders often require a code.

The process typically takes 5–10 working days, depending on SARS verification and document completeness.

• Company registration documents

• ID of director

• Tax number and compliance status

• Proof of address

• Bank confirmation

SARS checks these details before approving your code.

Yes. Individuals using their ID and personal details can register if they trade regularly.

Your shipment may be held at Customs, delayed, or rejected.

You may also face penalties and additional inspections.

Yes — but it must have a South African tax number and operating address.

Yes. SARS will not approve applications for taxpayers who are non-compliant or have outstanding returns.

Codes generally do not expire, but SARS may deactivate them if they are inactive for long periods.

The code is the same — SARS issues a single Customs client number used for both importing and exporting.

Yes — usually due to incorrect documents, mismatched SARS records, or invalid addresses.

Not mandatory, but recommended for clearing complex shipments.

Yes, but frequent personal imports may still require formal registration.

Duties depend on the tariff code of the goods.

SARS uses the HS (Harmonised System) classification to determine applicable taxes.

Your Customs broker or logistics provider can help classify your goods accurately.

Yes, but you must comply with Customs regulations of both South Africa and the destination country.

Yes — for non-compliance, fraudulent activity, or incorrect information.

No — only one per entity.

Provide the documents within the specified deadline.

We assist with preparing and submitting any requested information.

You can begin importing/exporting immediately, provided your clearing agents and logistics partners handle the necessary declarations.