If you’re planning to import or export goods across South African borders, the first critical step is securing the right legal permissions. This starts with completing your importer or exporter registration, which results in you receiving your registration number. This number is also referred to as a Customs Client Number (CCN) or a Customs Code.
What Is an Import Export License or Customs Client Number?
An entity that wants to import or export goods across South African borders must register with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) as a trader. Once your application is approved, you will be issued a Customs Client Number (CCN). This customs code is your unique identification code, and it must be used in all customs declarations and international trade documentation. This Customs Code is essential for clearing goods through customs, making or receiving international payments, and accessing trade-related tax benefits.
Who Needs to Register as an Importer or Exporter?
You are required by SARS to do your importer or exporter registration when:
- Your total imports or exports exceed R150,000 in a calendar year; or
- You have three or more imports or exports in a calendar year; or
- You are importing goods for resale or business purposes, rather than personal use; or
- You make an advance payment for imported goods over the value of R50 000 and thus require an Advance Payment Notification (APN) number from SARS; or
You are importing goods that require a permit that needs an import or export code
What’s Involved in Getting a Customs Code?
SARS has modernised many of its systems in the last few years. Most customs registrations can now be done on the eFiling and RLA platforms. The registration process can be quite tricky because it still includes multiple steps, from eFiling setup and profile linking to document certification, role assignment, and annexure selection. Mistakes in these steps are among the top reasons for delays or rejections in customs licensing applications.
The specific documentation and steps that are required for an importer or exporter registration depend on the application; however, some of the components that are required may include:
- Registration on SARS eFiling for both individuals and businesses;
- Assignment of customs roles and permissions;
- Completion of the correct SARS annexure forms (e.g., DA185.4A1 or DA185.4A2);
- Certified supporting documents, including ID copies, CIPC certificates, and proof of address;
- A local agent or representative if you’re a foreign entity.
For Foreigners: Can You Apply for a Customs Code in South Africa?
Foreign entities or individuals who want to manage their own import/export activities in South Africa have three main options:
- Use an Importer/Exporter of Record: In this option, the foreigner does not apply for their own Customs Code but rather uses a local South African entity that handles customs clearance, taxes, and compliance on behalf of the foreign party. It’s fast and requires no registration by the foreign entity, but can be costly, and the goods must be invoiced under the local entity’s name.
- Register the Foreign Entity with SARS: A foreign business or individual can register directly as an importer/exporter with South African Customs. This allows them to manage their own transactions but requires appointing a local registered agent, who takes on compliance responsibility and financial risk for five years. This option offers more control but may involve oversight fees and a more complex setup.
- Open a South African Company: A foreign company can establish a local branch or subsidiary, register for import/export, and operate independently. While this offers full control and access to local infrastructure (banking, VAT registration, staff hiring), it also comes with annual SARS and CIPC compliance, tax obligations, and a need for a physical presence in South Africa.
Common Mistakes People Make
We’ve seen many delays and rejections in applications over the years. The most common mistakes that cause these problems are:
- Incorrect or mismatched SARS profile information;
- Expired or missing documentation;
- Incorrect annexure selection;
- Incomplete company details;
- SARS bank verification issues.
The mistakes seem small, but they can lead to weeks of delays or even force you to restart the application process altogether.
Why Use a Professional Service Like Import Export License?
At Import Export License, we specialise in helping businesses and individuals complete their importer or exporter registration smoothly and quickly. We have many years of experience, and we understand the requirements and roadblocks involved in the process — and we know how to navigate them to help you succeed in your application.
We have a range of services that can help you with every step of your customs registration process, including:
- SARS eFiling profile creation for both individuals and businesses;
- Custom role setup and permissions for RLA submissions;
- Accurate completion of DA185 and annexure forms;
- Checking that all required documents meets SARS requirements for acceptance;
- Submission tracking and direct follow-ups with SARS;
- Help with foreign entity registration and local representation.
We can assist with all related services like company registration, SARS registration, and more.
Let Us Handle the Paperwork — So You Can Focus on Your Business
Applying for an import or export license in South Africa doesn’t need to be stressful — but it does need to be done right. Let our experienced team at Import Export License handle the complexities, so you can focus on growing your business.
Contact us now on 087 550 1038 and let our experts handle your importer or exporter registration — so you can trade legally, confidently, and without delays. Alternatively, you can submit a query via our website here.
