Importing hats into South Africa requires the correct HS code on your SAD500 customs declaration. The right classification determines your duty rate, VAT base, and whether you qualify for preferential tariff treatment.
Quick reference
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| HS Heading | 6505 |
| Chapter | 65 — Headgear and parts thereof |
| General (MFN) duty | 20% |
| VAT on import | 15% on customs value + duty + 10% ATV uplift |
How SARS classifies hats
Most hats and headgear fall under heading 6505. This covers knitted or crocheted beanies, fabric peaked caps, baseball caps, and sun hats made of woven or braided material. Fur-felt or wool-felt hats — classic Fedoras and formal hats — fall under headings 6501 and 6502. Hard-shell safety helmets (construction and motorcycle helmets) move to heading 6506.10, not 6505. Hat bodies in their unfinished state — unlined, unblocked — are separately classified under 6501.
Preferential duty rates
South Africa maintains preferential tariff agreements with SADC member states, the EU (via the EPA), and AGOA. If your hats originates from a preference country and you hold the correct certificate of origin — EUR.1 for EU goods or Form A for AGOA — your effective duty rate may be lower than the general rate above.
Total import cost breakdown
- Customs duty: 20% on the FOB customs value
- VAT: 15% on the ATV (FOB customs value + 10% uplift + duty)
- Port and terminal handling charges
- Customs clearance fee
- Last-mile delivery to your address
Import hats to South Africa with JLog
JLog is a Cape Town-based customs clearance and freight specialist. We verify HS codes before your shipment departs — preventing reclassifications at the border — and manage the full clearance, documentation, and last-mile delivery. Get a quote for importing hats today.
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