Passenger vehicles attract 25% import duty in South Africa regardless of fuel type — electric vehicles face the same rate as petrol cars. Commercial vehicles range 0–20%. All vehicle imports require an ITAC permit and NRCS compliance letter before SARS will release them.
Importing Vehicles into South Africa — HS Chapter 87
Motor vehicles under HS Chapter 87 attract duty rates of 0%–25% in South Africa, depending on engine type, vehicle category, and country of origin. South Africa’s automotive sector is heavily protected and ITAC approval is generally required for vehicle imports. Imported electric vehicles (EVs) attract the same 25% import duty as petrol cars — the government EV incentive is a local-manufacturing tax deduction, not an import-duty waiver.
HS 87 Vehicles — Duty Rate Table
| HS Code | Description | General Duty Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8703.80 | Electric passenger vehicles | 25% | Same as ICE; EV incentive is a local-manufacturing deduction, not an import-duty waiver |
| 8703.23 | Petrol cars 1000cc–1500cc | 25% | Plus 15% VAT |
| 8703.24 | Petrol cars >1500cc–3000cc | 25% | Most common luxury segment |
| 8704 | Commercial goods vehicles | 0%–20% | Varies by GVM |
| 8711 | Motorcycles | 15% |
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Required Import Documents
Vehicle imports require: an original title deed or certificate of origin, a commercial invoice with the FOB customs value, a bill of lading, an ITAC import permit, a South African Road Traffic Act compliance letter, a vehicle inspection report, and the NRCS approval letter for the specific model. All vehicles must be converted to right-hand drive and comply with SABS standards before registration with the DLTC.
How SARS Clearance Works for Vehicles
- ITAC import permit is obtained before the vehicle is shipped — this is mandatory.
- Vessel arrives at Cape Town or Durban RORO terminal; clearing agent lodges the SAD500.
- SARS assesses duty on the FOB customs value at the applicable rate (0%–25%).
- NRCS letter confirming model compliance is submitted to SARS.
- Ad valorem excise duty may apply to high-value passenger vehicles.
- Vehicle is released to DLTC for roadworthy inspection and SA registration.
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 Vehicles & Auto Parts into South Africa
What is the import duty rate for vehicles & auto parts in South Africa?
New passenger vehicles attract 18-25% duty depending on engine size. Commercial vehicles attract 0-20%. Auto parts attract 0-20% depending on the specific component.
Do I need a permit or licence to import vehicles & auto parts into South Africa?
All vehicles must comply with NRTA (National Road Traffic Act) requirements. RTA homologation approval is required before a vehicle can be registered. The NRCS issues Letters of Authority for vehicle approval.
How long does SARS customs clearance take for vehicles & auto parts?
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.