How do I calculate import duty in South Africa?

Import duty in South Africa is calculated on the FOB value of goods using the SARS tariff rate for your HS code. VAT at 15% is then charged on the CIF value. Rates range from 0% to 45% depending on product category.

What documents do I need to export goods from South Africa?

At minimum you need a commercial invoice, packing list, and your SARS exporter code. Depending on the goods you may also need a Certificate of Origin, a SAHRA permit for art, a phytosanitary certificate, or an ATA Carnet for temporary exports.

What is a 3PL and do I need one for my online store?

A 3PL stores your stock, picks and packs orders, and dispatches them to customers. South African online stores typically benefit from switching to a 3PL when processing more than 50 orders per month.

How do I connect my Shopify store to a Cape Town 3PL?

JLog integrates directly with Shopify, WooCommerce, and Etsy. Orders flow automatically into the JLog warehouse system, picked and dispatched same-day. Setup takes one working day with no contract required.

What is the cheapest way to ship internationally from South Africa?

For parcels under 30kg, FedEx Economy or DHL Express are typically most cost-effective from South Africa. JLog holds direct corporate accounts with both carriers, giving clients access to preferential rates.

How long does customs clearance take in South Africa?

Standard customs clearance in South Africa takes 1 to 3 business days when all documentation is correct. SARS may hold shipments for inspection, extending clearance to 5 to 10 business days. Using a registered clearing agent like JLog significantly reduces delays.

What is an HS code and how do I find the right one?

An HS code is a 6 to 10 digit tariff classification number used by SARS to determine duty rates. Using the wrong HS code can result in incorrect duty payments or customs delays.

Does JLog handle fine art and gallery logistics?

Yes. JLog is the official appointed carrier for the Investec Cape Town Art Fair and handles art packing, custom crating, customs clearance, and international courier bookings for galleries and collectors across South Africa.

Licensed Clearing Agent. JLog can file your customs declarations and settle duties & VAT with SARS on your behalf.

Cape Town · Customs clearance agent services · SAD500 entries filed daily.

Your Customs Clearance Agent in Cape Town

JLog files customs declarations and manages SARS clearance for importers and exporters in Cape Town — from HS code classification and SAD500 filing through to duty payment and port collection.

What we handle for you

SAD500 filing — electronic customs entry declaration via the SARS system
HS classification review — we confirm your tariff code before filing; wrong codes attract SARS penalties
Duty and VAT payment — calculated on the correct customs value and paid on your behalf
SARS liaison — we respond to queries, additional document requests, and inspection notices
Port and airport collection coordination — goods released to your nominated depot or delivered door-to-door

Who uses this service

Importers receiving stock from China, India, the EU or USA — full clearance from airway bill to delivery
E-commerce businesses importing inventory — per-shipment clearance, no retainer
Fine art and designer furniture — specialist handling, SARS liaison for high-value declarations, coordination with galleries and studios

What does a clearing agent do?

A clearing agent files your customs declaration (SAD500) with SARS, classifies your goods with the correct HS code, calculates and pays applicable duties and VAT, liaises with SARS on your behalf, and coordinates goods release from port or airport. They act as your authorised representative throughout the clearance process.

How much does a clearing agent cost in South Africa?

Most clearing agents charge R1,500 to R4,000 per declaration for standard commercial shipments. Complex shipments — multiple tariff lines, high declared value, specialist goods — cost more. JLog quotes per shipment with no retainer. We include HS classification review, SARS liaison, and delivery coordination in the fee.

Do I need a clearing agent or can I clear myself?

You can clear goods yourself as an importer if you are registered with SARS and can file electronically via the SARS Customs system. Most importers use a clearing agent because errors in classification or valuation attract SARS penalties and can delay shipments indefinitely. See our customs clearance guide for the self-clearing steps and requirements.

How do I switch clearing agents?

Ask your new agent to file a substitution with SARS. You will need your SARS importer registration number and any current open entries. JLog handles this administrative process at no additional charge when you bring your account to us — it typically takes two to three working days.

Calculate your import duty before you ship

Use our free tool — enter your HS code or invoice value and get an instant South African landed-cost estimate including duty and VAT.

Open the Duty Calculator →

About JLog

Cape Town-based, operating since 2019
Official carrier for the Investec Cape Town Art Fair
Live shipment tracking for every clearance we handle
Covers imports via Cape Town port (CTCT) and Cape Town International Airport

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Customs Clearance Agent Cape Town | SARS Entries Filed Daily | JLog

Your Customs Clearance Agent in Cape Town

What we handle for you

Who uses this service

What does a clearing agent do?

How much does a clearing agent cost in South Africa?

Do I need a clearing agent or can I clear myself?

How do I switch clearing agents?

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