Importing Furniture into South Africa — HS Chapter 94
Furniture under HS Chapter 94 attracts a general duty rate of 20%–30% for most categories. Designer and luxury furniture is a significant import category for JLog, which specialises in white-glove delivery of high-value, fragile furniture pieces. Correct HS classification is critical — a sofa versus a modular seating system, for instance, can carry different duty rates.
HS 94 Furniture — Duty Rate Table
| HS Code | Description | General Duty Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9401 | Seats (sofas, chairs, office chairs) | 20%–30% | Varies by material |
| 9402 | Medical, surgical, dental furniture | 0% | Medical exemption |
| 9403 | Other furniture (tables, shelving, beds) | 20% | Most common category |
| 9404 | Mattresses, bedding | 30% | High protection rate |
| 9405 | Lamps, lighting fittings | 20% | Decorative lighting common |
Required Import Documents
Furniture imports require: a commercial invoice showing the FOB customs value per item, a detailed packing list with dimensions and weights, a bill of lading or airway bill, and a phytosanitary certificate if the furniture contains solid wood components (required by DAFF). Upholstered furniture may require a flammability compliance certificate for commercial quantities.
How SARS Clearance Works for Furniture
- Correct HS 94 subheading is declared based on the primary function and material.
- DAFF (Department of Agriculture) inspects any solid wood components for phytosanitary compliance.
- SARS assesses duty at 20%–30% on FOB customs value plus 15% VAT.
- Large or bulky items may be held at a Container Freight Station (CFS) pending inspection.
- Once all permits and duties are cleared, a cargo release is issued.
- JLog coordinates white-glove last-mile delivery from port to final address.
JLog handles end-to-end customs clearance, SARS compliance, and last-mile delivery for all HS code categories. We reply within 4 business hours — info@jlog.co.za or visit our customs clearance page.
Related JLog services: Customs Clearance Cape Town | Import Logistics South Africa | All HS Code Guides
Last updated: March 2026
Frequently Asked Questions — Importing Furniture into South Africa
What is the import duty rate for furniture in South Africa?
Furniture attracts import duty of 20-30%. Wooden furniture typically attracts 20%. Upholstered and composite furniture may attract up to 30%.
Do I need a permit or licence to import furniture into South Africa?
No specific import permit required for furniture. CITES permits are required if the furniture contains protected timber species such as rosewood or ebony. JLog advises on CITES requirements as part of the quoting process.
How long does SARS customs clearance take for furniture?
Clearance typically takes 1-3 business days for compliant shipments with complete documentation. Shipments flagged for physical inspection may take 3-5 business days. JLog pre-checks all documentation before handover to SARS to minimise delays. Contact info@jlog.co.za to discuss your specific shipment timeline.