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Back to news... 18 February 2025 Can I send clothes to South Africa?
Can I Send Clothes to South Africa?
Yes, you can send clothes to South Africa using our services. However, there are a few important factors to consider, including customs regulations, potential duties/taxes, and shipping restrictions.
1. Customs Duties & Taxes on Clothing
South Africa applies customs duties and VAT to imported clothing to protect its local textile industry. Some key points to note:
- VAT (Value-Added Tax): VAT is charged on all imported parcels, including clothing. This applies to both personal and commercial shipments.
- Customs Duties: Import duties for clothing vary but can be higher than the standard duty rate for general goods. Luxury or designer items may be subject to higher tariffs.
- Low-Value Shipments: Some low-value parcels may qualify for lower duty rates, but all shipments are subject to VAT regardless of value.
2. Packaging and Shipping Clothes
To avoid any delays or damage, we recommend:
- Properly Folding & Packing Clothes – Use vacuum-sealed bags to save space and protect garments.
- Using Strong Packaging – Choose a sturdy box to prevent tearing, especially for bulky items.
- Labelling Correctly – Include a detailed description on the customs declaration, such as:
- "Men’s Cotton T-Shirts – 3 pcs"
- "Women’s Wool Jacket – 1 pc"
- "Kids' Polyester Tracksuit – 2 pcs"
Avoid vague descriptions like “Clothes” or “Garments,” as customs may delay clearance.
3. Documentation Required
To ensure smooth customs clearance, your shipment will require:
- Commercial Invoice – A document detailing the type and value of each clothing item.This does not need to be printed as it is sent electronically.
- Packing List – A list of the clothing being shipped.
- Bill of Lading / Airway Bill – Provided by the courier for tracking.
- Import Permits (if applicable) – Required for certain textiles and bulk shipments.
4. Are There Any Restrictions on Clothing?
Most standard clothing items can be shipped to South Africa, but some restrictions apply, including:
- Second-Hand Clothing – South Africa has strict regulations on importing second-hand clothes, especially for resale.
- Clothes Made from Restricted Materials – Items containing animal skins, fur, or exotic fabrics may require special permits.
- Political or Offensive Prints – Clothing featuring controversial messages, counterfeit logos, or banned symbols may be stopped at customs.
Always check with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) for the latest guidelines to ensure compliance.
5. How Long Does Shipping Take?
Shipping times to South Africa vary depending on the service
- Our Fastest Service: 2 Days
Delays are usually due to
- Customs clearance (especially for bulk orders).
- High shipping volumes (seasonal delays).
- Additional import inspections.
6. How much does it cost
Our lowest cost for a parcel to South Africa is: £31.18
7. How to Avoid Delays & Extra Costs?
To ensure your shipment arrives quickly and without extra charges, follow these tips:
- Declare the correct value – Under-declaring can lead to fines.
- Provide a detailed invoice – Missing information can cause customs delays.
- Choose a reliable courier – We work with trusted partners UPS & DHL for smooth deliveries.
Book your parcel to South Africa with us
Need Help? Contact Us using Livechat or via [email protected]
If you’re unsure about sending clothes to South Africa, contact our customer support team for advice on customs regulations, packaging, and delivery times.
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