Cross border trade

South Africa, despite its location at the southernmost tip of the African continent, is surrounded by five local borders. These border crossings present ample opportunity for cross-border trade, but it is important to have the correct documentation and information before attempting to import or export across local borders.

South Africa’s five bordering countries are:

• Botswana
• Mozambique
• Namibia
• Lesotho
• Eswatini

There are many similar requirements for entering these countries, but some requirements differ between countries. This will be discussed in more detail further on in this article.

General Requirements for Cross-Border Trade

Before exporting or importing goods across local borders, it is essential to understand the basic requirements:

• Proper documentation for customs
• Registration as an importer or exporter when required

Compliance with local and neighbouring country regulations

Checklist: Imports and exports across local borders

• Licenses and permits: You need to be registered as an importer/exporter if you want to import or export goods over the value of R50,000, more than 3 times a year, or if the goods are regulated. Once registered for an import/export license, you will be allowed to import or export most items. Certain regulated items (e.g. meat, pharmaceuticals, gold, cars, cellphones, etc.) require a special permit in addition to the standard import/export license. You can register for your import/export license here.
• Certificate of origin: You may need to pay import duties or VAT on your goods. You can save on import duties if you are importing into a country that has a trade agreement with South Africa. Depending on the trade agreement, you may need a certificate of origin. You can obtain your SADC certificates of origin here.
• Confirm operating hours: Check the border operating hours to avoid arriving at a closed border post. Some border posts are open 24 hours whereas others are only open for a few hours.
• Cross-border permits: If you are exporting goods or passengers for profit and the vehicle (or combination of vehicles) exceeds a total mass of 3,500kg, then you need a cross-border road transport permit. Foreign registered vehicles that are used commercially within South Africa also require this permit. You can obtain a cross-border road permit here.
• Road Freight Manifest: All Road Haulers/Transporters (people who transport goods by truck for business purposes) must submit a Road Freight Manifest (RFM) before arriving at the border. The RFM lists all the items the vehicle carries. To do this submission, road haulers need to be registered at customs as a Carrier. RFMs can also be submitted electronically in advance with the use of an electronic communication link to customs called the Electronic Data Interchange (EDI).
• Bonded cargo: Transporting bonded cargo (cargo that carries VAT and duties) requires a bond and an additional registration at customs as either a Transporter or Road Hauler (if the bond is owned by a client) or a Remover of Goods in Bond (if the bond is in your name).
• Customs declaration form: A customs declaration form is used to declare all goods to customs. This form needs to be approved before the goods are allowed to cross the border. This form can be completed with a customs official at the border.

Crossing the border: General considerationsIn addition to the above checklist items, Table 1 outlines the general considerations you need to take into account when crossing one of the following local South African borders: Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, and Zimbabwe.

Country-Specific Vehicle Requirements

Botswana

• Certified copy of vehicle registration in driver’s name
• Letter of authority if vehicle not owned
• Letter from bank if vehicle financed
• International driving permit recommended

Mozambique

• Certified copy of vehicle registration in driver’s name
• Letter of authority if vehicle not owned
• Temporary import permit for vehicle
• Third-party insurance required
• Vehicle declaration form

Namibia

• Certified copy of vehicle registration in driver’s name
• Letter of authority if vehicle not owned
• Motor insurance certificate (valid 30 days, can be obtained at border)

Lesotho

• Certified copy of vehicle registration in driver’s name
• Letter of authority if vehicle not owned
• Police-issued affidavit recommended if vehicle is financed

Eswatini

• Certified copy of vehicle registration in driver’s name
• Letter of authority if vehicle not owned

Zimbabwe

• Certified copy of vehicle registration in driver’s name
• Letter of authority if the vehicle not owned
• Police clearance certificate if travelling via Chirundu border
• Third-party insurance required

Need Assistance with Cross-Border Trade?

If you require help preparing for cross-border trade, our consultants are available to guide you:

• Enquire online or call 087 550 1038
• Sign up for our newsletter to receive updates and guides on import/export compliance

Frequently Asked Questions

What licenses are required for cross-border trade in South Africa?
You need an import/export license for goods over R50,000, for regulated goods, or if importing/exporting multiple times per year. Some items may require special permits.

Are visas required for South Africans trading across borders?
Generally, SA passport holders do not need visas for short-term stays in neighbouring countries for trade or tourism. Business visits may require visas depending on the country.

Do I need a certificate of origin?
A certificate of origin may be required to benefit from trade agreements and reduce import duties.

What vehicle documents are required for cross-border trade?
Certified copies of vehicle registration papers, letters of authority if not owned, temporary import permits, and third-party insurance depending on the country.

Are there vaccinations or health precautions?
Yellow Fever vaccination is compulsory if arriving from affected areas. Other vaccinations are recommended, and malaria precautions should be considered.