DutyCheq is JLog’s import duty and landed-cost calculator for South African importers. Enter a product or HS tariff code and the supplier (FOB) value, and DutyCheq returns the customs duty, the 15% import VAT and the all-in landed cost — the real figure you will pay to clear the goods through SARS. It is free to use, and it is built and maintained by JLog, a Cape Town customs and logistics company.
What DutyCheq works out
- HS tariff code — find the correct South African tariff code for your product from the SARS tariff schedule.
- Customs duty — the duty rate that applies to that HS code, on the correct SARS valuation basis.
- Import VAT — 15% VAT, calculated on the Added Tax Value (ATV), not on the invoice alone.
- Landed cost — duty plus VAT plus the customs value uplift, so you see the total before you place the order.
- SAD500 figures — the customs value, duty and VAT lines you need to prepare a SAD500 customs declaration.
Try DutyCheq
The DutyCheq calculator is free. Enter your HS code and FOB value below, or open the full landed-cost calculator.
How DutyCheq calculates duty and VAT
South African import duty and VAT are not charged on the invoice value alone. DutyCheq uses the same method SARS uses:
- Start with the FOB (free on board) value of the goods — never CIF.
- Apply the customs duty rate for the HS code to that FOB value.
- Add 10% to the FOB value and add the duty. That total is the Added Tax Value (ATV). The 10% uplift does not apply to goods from Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia or Eswatini.
- Charge 15% import VAT on the ATV.
Duty rates come from the SARS tariff schedule. Figures are an estimate to plan with — confirm the final rate for your shipment before you commit.
Who builds and runs DutyCheq
DutyCheq is built and maintained by JLog (JetLog Pty Ltd), a customs and logistics company in Woodstock, Cape Town. JLog’s customs clearance team lodges SARS declarations and clears shipments; DutyCheq gives importers the duty and VAT numbers up front. DutyCheq does not register you with SARS. You register once for your own importer or exporter code, and from there JLog’s team can handle the clearance.
Frequently asked questions
What does DutyCheq calculate?
DutyCheq calculates the HS tariff code, customs duty, 15% import VAT and total landed cost for goods imported into South Africa, using the SARS FOB and Added Tax Value (ATV) basis.
Is DutyCheq free to use?
Yes. The DutyCheq landed-cost calculator is free to use on jlog.co.za.
Does DutyCheq use CIF or FOB?
FOB. South Africa values imports on the FOB price. Import VAT is then charged on the Added Tax Value — the FOB value plus 10% plus the duty payable — not on the CIF value.
Does DutyCheq register me with SARS?
No. DutyCheq calculates duty and VAT only. You register once with SARS for an importer or exporter code; JLog’s clearance team can then handle your declarations.
Can DutyCheq help with my SAD500?
DutyCheq gives you the customs value, duty and VAT figures you need to prepare a SAD500 declaration. JLog’s customs team can lodge the SAD500 for you.