Import
into South Africa

Import into South Africa

At Freight Factory, our Imports team expertly manages the importation of vehicles, parts, and general and commercial cargo to meet various client needs. We streamline the complex process from start to finish, handling all intricate details to ensure a seamless and successful import experience.

Top 10 Import Countries

  1. United Kingdom
  2. Netherlands
  3. Ireland
  4. New Zealand
  5. Australia
  6. United States of America
  7. Hong Kong
  8. Singapore
  9. Canada
  10. Norway

Import Image

Import

Our Import Procedure

  • Appoint Freight Factory as your import and logistics agent. We will coordinate the shipping process, customs clearance, customs inspection, container movement and unpacking.
  • We offer Unpack, Delivery and Storage
  • We can provide guidance on vehicle registration requirements following importation.

We Assist with a range of services tailored for different types of vehicle imports, ensuring a smooth and efficient process for our clients:

  • ITAC import permit requirements – Certain used vehicle imports may require an ITAC permit. Our team can advise on the documentation required as part of the import process.
  • LOA (Letter of Authority) requirements – Depending on the vehicle and import circumstances, an LOA may be required as part of the import and registration process.
  • Temporary import permit requirements – Certain temporary imports may require a permit. Our team can guide you on the documentation and shipping requirements.
  • Carnet de Passage requirements – Commonly used by overlanders travelling internationally with a vehicle. We can advise on how this documentation fits into the shipping and customs process.
  • ATA Carnet requirements – An ATA Carnet may be required for certain temporary imports of goods and equipment. Freight Factory can advise on the related shipping and customs requirements.
  • Returning Resident or Immigrant – This complex process has a long list of requirements. It’s best to consult us directly before making commitments.
  • Inherited vehicles or goods – Different import requirements may apply to inherited items. Contact our team for guidance on the shipping and documentation requirements.
  • Importer and exporter registration requirements – Depending on the type of import or export, registration with the relevant authorities may be required. We can advise on the documentation needed for the shipping process.

Factors That Determine Percentage Of Applicable Customs Vat & Duty:

  1. Year, Make /Model of the Vehicle
  2. Reason for Import
  3. Specify if you are SA Citizen or not

What Do We Import?

  1. Specially Designed Vehicles
  2. Vintage Vehicles
  3. Classic Vehicles
  4. Motorcycles
  5. Engines / Gearboxes and Vehicle Parts
  6. Machinery
  7. Racing cars
  8. Collectors Vehicles
  9. General Dry Cargo
  10. Commercial Cargo

For specific details on each of these points, please contact us directly, as regulations change frequently, and it’s important to keep you personally updated.

General Information:

Individuals or companies planning to import used vehicles or parts should confirm the applicable import requirements before purchasing or shipping goods to South Africa. Processing requirements and timelines can vary depending on the type of import and the relevant authority. We recommend confirming the latest requirements before making any shipping commitments.

Freight Factory is an independent freight forwarding and logistics company and is not a government agency. Where government permits, registrations or approvals are required, we provide guidance and logistical support regarding the applicable documentation and process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I import a used car into South Africa?
In most cases yes, but used vehicle imports are tightly controlled and not every vehicle qualifies. The common routes are returning residents and immigrants, vintage, classic and collector vehicles, inheritance, and specially designed vehicles. We look at your situation up front and tell you honestly whether your vehicle qualifies before you commit to anything.
What permits and documents do I need to import a vehicle?
Most used vehicle imports need an ITAC import permit and a Letter of Authority, and depending on your circumstances an importer registration may apply. These are issued by the relevant authorities, not by us. What we do is advise on exactly what applies to your case and help you get the documentation in order for the shipping and customs process.
Which countries do you import from?
We import from all over, but our most common routes are the United Kingdom, Netherlands, Ireland, New Zealand, Australia, the United States, Hong Kong, Singapore, Canada and Norway.
What is the difference between container and RORO shipping, and which is better?
With container shipping your vehicle is sealed inside a container, either on its own or sharing space, which gives more protection and lets you include parts or personal effects. RORO means the vehicle is driven straight on and off the vessel, which can be a cost effective option for running vehicles. Which one suits you depends on the vehicle, the route and your budget, and we will talk you through it.
How much does it cost to import a vehicle, and how are duties worked out?
It depends on the origin, the vehicle and the shipping method, and the customs VAT and duty are worked out on things like the year, make and model, the reason for import, and whether you are a South African citizen. Because every job is different, the honest answer is to get a quote from us and we will break it down for you.
Do you handle customs clearance, delivery and storage?
Yes. We coordinate the whole logistics side, customs clearance, customs inspection, container movement, unpacking, delivery and storage, so you deal with one team from start to finish.
Can you help with vehicle registration after import?
We provide guidance on the registration requirements that apply once your vehicle has been imported. The registration itself is handled by the relevant authority, and we point you in the right direction on what is needed.
Can you help with temporary imports and carnets?
Yes. Whether it is a Carnet de Passage for overlanders or an ATA Carnet for temporary imports of goods and equipment, we advise on how that documentation fits into the shipping and customs process.