HS Code for Shirts in South Africa — Import Classification & Duty

Importing shirts 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	6205
Chapter	62 — Articles of apparel and clothing accessories, not knitted or crocheted
General (MFN) duty	45%
VAT on import	15% on customs value + duty + 10% ATV uplift

How SARS classifies shirts

Shirts are first split by fabric construction: knitted shirts go to 6105 (men’s) or 6106 (women’s), while woven shirts go to 6205 (men’s) or 6206 (women’s). Within the heading, the fibre content — cotton vs synthetic fibres — determines the sub-heading. Polo shirts and T-shirts are generally knitted and fall under 6105 or 6109 rather than 6205. The 45% duty applies to all shirt sub-headings.

Preferential duty rates

South Africa maintains preferential tariff agreements with SADC member states, the EU (via the EPA), and AGOA. If your shirts 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: 45% 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 shirts 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 shirts today.