Container Customs Clearance in South Africa | Clearing Solutions SA

What Is Container Customs Clearance?

Container customs clearance is the process of declaring containerised goods to Customs and meeting the applicable requirements before the goods can be released for import or export.

For commercial container shipments, Customs may require information and supporting documentation relating to the goods, their value, classification, origin, destination and transport arrangements.

The customs process can include:

• Preparing and submitting the Goods Declaration

• Checking commercial and shipping documentation

• Tariff and HS code classification

• Determining applicable customs duties and taxes

• Checking import or export permits

• Customs documentary inspections

• Physical examination where required

• Responding to Customs queries

• Facilitating the release of the container

SARS states that importers and exporters, or their appointed agents, must lodge a Goods Declaration unless an applicable exemption exists. Customs may also request supporting documents to validate the declaration.

Our Container Customs Clearance Services

Import Container Clearance

We assist with the customs clearance of containers arriving in South Africa for local delivery.

Our service can include:

• Import Goods Declaration

• Commercial invoice review

• Packing list review

• Bill of lading documentation

• Tariff and HS code classification

• Customs valuation support

• Duties and import VAT

• Import permits and compliance

• Customs queries

• Documentary inspections

• Physical inspections where required

• Customs release

Export Container Clearance

We assist exporters with the customs requirements for containers leaving South Africa.

This can include:

• Export Goods Declaration

• Export documentation

• Commercial invoice and packing list requirements

• Tariff classification

• Export permits where applicable

• Certificates of origin

• Customs queries and inspections

• Port and shipping documentation

• Proof of export requirements

Container Customs Documentation

Accurate documentation is an important part of the customs clearance process.

Depending on the shipment, supporting documentation may include:

• Commercial invoice

• Packing list

• Bill of lading

• Permits or certificates

• Certificates of origin

• Clearing instructions

• Other supporting documents required by Customs

SARS's current Goods Declaration policy identifies invoices, packing lists where required, applicable certificates or permits, and transport documents such as bills of lading for sea freight among the standard supporting documentation.


Customs Duties & Import VAT

We assist with the customs requirements associated with duties and import VAT.

The amount payable can depend on factors including the classification, customs value, origin and applicable trade measures for the goods.

Our team can assist with the customs clearance process and explain the documentation and information required for your shipment.

Tariff & HS Code Classification

Correct tariff classification is an important part of customs clearance.

The tariff classification of goods can affect the applicable duties, taxes, permits and other customs requirements.

We assist with identifying the appropriate tariff and HS code information required for the customs declaration.

Customs Inspections & Queries

Customs may select a container for documentary review or physical examination.

If Customs requests additional information or supporting documentation, we can assist in responding to the requirements and progressing the clearance process.

Where inspections are required, Customs procedures may involve examination of the goods before release.

How Container Customs Clearance Works

1. Provide Your Shipment Documents

Send us the available information for your container, including the commercial invoice, packing list and bill of lading.

We can also advise if additional documents are required.

2. Review the Shipment

We review the shipment information to identify the relevant customs requirements, including classification, permits, documentation and applicable customs procedures.

3. Prepare the Goods Declaration

The customs declaration is prepared using the information and supporting documentation supplied for the shipment.

Goods declarations are legal statements and must be completed accurately.

4. Submit to Customs

The declaration is submitted to Customs for processing.

Customs may release the shipment or request additional information, supporting documentation or an inspection.

5. Address Customs Requirements

If Customs raises a query or selects the container for examination, we assist with the required response and documentation.

6. Customs Release

Once the applicable customs requirements have been satisfied and any duties or taxes have been dealt with, the container can proceed through the relevant release process.

Documents Required for Container Customs Clearance

The exact documentation depends on the shipment, type of goods and customs procedure.

Common documents include:

• Commercial invoice

• Packing list

• Bill of lading

• Import or export permits, where applicable

• Certificate of origin, where applicable

• Clearing instructions

• Product information

• Customs registration information

• Other certificates or supporting documents required for the goods

Providing complete and legible documentation upfront can help reduce unnecessary delays during the customs process.

Import Container Customs Clearance

For imported containers, the customs clearance process may involve reviewing the shipment documentation, determining the appropriate tariff classification and customs value, checking applicable permits and calculating duties and import VAT.

SARS notes that the import clearance process can include checking the Goods Declaration against supporting documents, examination of goods where necessary, and assessment and collection of duty and VAT.

We can assist with the customs process before your container is released for local delivery.

Export Container Customs Clearance

Export containers also require the appropriate customs declaration and supporting documentation before the goods leave South Africa.

Depending on the goods and destination, additional permits, certificates or documentation may be required.

SARS requires exporters and their agents to comply with the applicable Goods Declaration and customs requirements before goods leave South Africa.

We assist exporters with preparing the customs documentation and addressing applicable customs requirements.

Container Clearance at South African Ports

We provide container customs clearance support for shipments moving through major South African ports, including:

• Durban

• Cape Town

• Gqeberha

• Richards Bay

• Johannesburg / inland customs processes

• Other applicable customs locations across South Africa

Our customs service can work alongside your freight forwarder, shipping line, transporter or logistics provider.

Common Container Customs Clearance Problems

Container shipments can experience delays when information or documentation does not match the customs declaration.

Common issues can include:

Incorrect Tariff Classification

An incorrect HS or tariff classification can result in incorrect duties, permits or customs requirements.

Missing Documentation

Missing invoices, packing lists, permits or other supporting documents can delay the clearance process.

Incorrect Shipment Information

Differences between the commercial documents, bill of lading and customs declaration may result in additional queries.

Customs Inspections

Containers selected for documentary or physical examination may require additional processing before release.

Restricted Goods

Certain goods may require permits, certificates or compliance with additional government requirements before Customs can release them. SARS maintains a current list of prohibited and restricted imports and exports.

Why Choose Clearing Solutions SA?

Professional Customs Support

We help businesses navigate the customs clearance requirements associated with containerised cargo.

Clear Communication

We keep you informed about the progress of your customs clearance and communicate any additional requirements.

South Africa-Wide Service

We assist with container customs clearance requirements across major South African ports and customs locations.

Practical Assistance

Our focus is on making the customs process straightforward, organised and easier for businesses to manage.

Import & Export Support

Whether you are bringing containers into South Africa or exporting goods overseas, we can assist with the applicable customs process.

About Clearing Solutions SA

Clearing Solutions SA is a South African customs clearing company focused on providing reliable, professional customs clearance solutions for businesses importing and exporting goods.

Owned by Cibelle Kruse, Clearing Solutions SA is built around clear communication, attention to detail and practical support throughout the customs clearance process.

We work with importers, exporters, logistics companies and businesses moving containerised cargo through South Africa.

From container customs clearance and import/export declarations to customs documentation and compliance, our goal is to provide a straightforward and dependable customs clearance service.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does container customs clearance take in South Africa?

The time required can vary depending on the shipment, documentation, customs procedure and whether Customs requires additional information or an inspection.

Providing complete and accurate documentation can help avoid unnecessary delays.

What documents do I need to clear a container?

Common documents include a commercial invoice, packing list and bill of lading. Depending on the goods and transaction, permits, certificates of origin and other supporting documentation may also be required.

Do all containers have to be physically inspected?

No. Customs may select shipments for documentary review or physical examination as part of its customs processes.

Do I need a customs clearing agent?

Businesses can submit their own declarations where permitted, or appoint an appropriate registered or licensed agent. SARS states that a person lodging customs clearance declarations for reward on behalf of a client must meet the applicable licensing requirements.

Can you clear both import and export containers?

Yes. Clearing Solutions SA provides customs clearance support for both imported and exported containerised cargo.

Can you assist with containers arriving through Durban?

Yes. We assist with container customs clearance requirements associated with shipments moving through Durban and other major South African ports.

Do restricted goods require special permits?

Some goods are subject to restrictions and may require permits, certificates or additional compliance before clearance. The requirements depend on the specific goods and applicable regulations.

Can you assist if Customs has stopped my container?

Yes. If Customs requests additional documentation or information, we can assist in reviewing the requirement and preparing the necessary response.

Need Container Customs Clearance?

Whether you are importing a single container or regularly moving commercial containers through South African ports, Clearing Solutions SA can assist with the customs clearance process.

Request a Customs Clearance Quote

Provide your shipment details and available documentation, and our team will assess your requirements and advise you on the next steps.