Homes & Relocation Detail
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Relocating to South Africa is not a reason to sell off your prized Porsche or even your clapped out Skoda
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When it comes to importing a car into the Rainbow Nation, the first thing you should do is take a look at the South African Foreign Affairs website and the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) website for all the relevant, up-to-date information on the importation documents required for importing motor vehicles into South Africa.
Fees and taxes
You can expect to pay an initial fee that will vary according to the value of the car. This is the import duty and could be up to 100 per cent of the value or as little as 40 per cent depending on the make, engine size, model and a number of other factors. Although this may seem expensive, it is important to remember that, if the car is not sold or otherwise disposed of for two years after date of importation you will be reimbursed the full fee. In addition to the import duty you will also have to pay value added tax, which, at current rates, is assessed on the imported value of the vehicle. This will not be reimbursed. Finally, a standard fee of ZAR1,800 per vehicle must be paid to SABS.
Forms and permits
You will need customs form DA 304/A, the vehicles registration papers and a document proving that the vehicle has been in the owners use and possession in the UK for more than a year before the importation date (for example original purchase invoice, insurance certificate, etcetera.) You will also need an Import permit and a letter of authority issued by SABS in Pretoria. This has to be submitted to customs at the time of clearance. It is worth noting that you should be in possession of the import permit and letter of authority before the shipping of your car. In addition to this you must be in the country at least ten working days prior to arrival of the vessel transporting you car and be ready with all the documents for customs clearance. It is worth faxing a copy of the letter of authority and the import permit to customs to avoid a delay in clearance.
General Planning
You should obtain a quotation from your chosen shipping company prior to the move. In most cases a surveyor will be sent out to do a survey and to check loading access. If any extra packing is needed be sure to give 6–8 weeks notice. Upon visitation the surveyor should then take the time to discuss the customs regulations for South Africa and advise you on what can and can't be taken. They should also discuss cars and pets, insurance, packing procedures and so on, taking the time to explain the packing and loading dates as well as the transit times and documentation required.
For further information:
AGS Fourwinds International Removals