South Africa Customs Guide Household Goods, Vehicles, Pets & Restricted Items

Important: This South Africa customs guide provides essential information for individuals and families planning international moving, overseas relocation and import of personal effects into the Republic of South Africa. Customs is governed by the South African Revenue Service (SARS), and shipments require accurate paperwork and compliance with import restrictions.

Home To Home Relocations supports clients moving from Toronto, the GTA and across Canada with international moves to South Africa, offering full packing, ocean/airfreight, customs coordination and delivery to Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, Pretoria, Port Elizabeth and other regions.

1. Moving to South Africa – Key Customs Overview

1.1 Duty-Free Import of Household Goods

South Africa allows duty-free import of used household goods and personal effects if:

You hold a valid temporary or permanent residence permit
The goods are used and owned for at least 6 months before shipment
The items are for personal use and not resale
The shipment arrives within a reasonable period of your arrival

Important: New or unopened items, appliances and electronics may attract duties and VAT regardless of residency status.

1.2 South Africa vs Other African Destinations

South Africa has clearer import rules than many African countries but stricter inspections, particularly for electronics, tools, and high-value goods.

2. Used Household Goods & Personal Effects

2.1 Required Documentation

Passport copy with valid residence endorsement
Bill of lading / air waybill
DA 304 / P1.160 customs declaration forms
Detailed packing list with item descriptions
Inventory for electronics with serial numbers
Proof of residence/work in South Africa

2.2 Inventory Requirements

List electronics individually with brand, model and serial number
Avoid using generic inventory terms such as "miscellaneous household goods"
New items must be highlighted with receipts
Multiple identical items may be taxed as commercial imports

H-H Relocations Tip: Keep electronics, tools and sporting goods clearly identified—these are the most inspected items at South African ports.

3. Importing Motor Vehicles into South Africa

3.1 Vehicle Import Rules

Importing motor vehicles into South Africa is highly regulated and requires an import permit from the International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC). Duties can be substantial.

Import permits required for all used motor vehicles
Vehicles must meet South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) requirements
Luxury vehicles attract higher duties and VAT

3.2 Required Vehicle Documentation

Vehicle registration/title
Bill of lading
Import permit issued by ITAC
SABS compliance documents
Proof of ownership for minimum 6–12 months

Important: Importing a vehicle without proper permits may result in refusal, storage costs or re-exportation.

4. Bringing Pets to South Africa

Pets can be imported into South Africa but must comply with veterinary and quarantine requirements. Dogs and cats are the most commonly imported pets.

4.1 Pet Import Requirements

ISO microchip identification
Rabies vaccination and veterinary health certificate
Import permit issued before departure
Possible quarantine for pets arriving from high-risk countries

Pet Travel Tip: Requirements vary by origin country. Start applications early to avoid delays.

5. Alcohol, Tobacco, Food & Restricted Goods

5.1 Alcohol

Alcohol may be imported into South Africa, but duties and excise taxes apply. Quantities exceeding personal-use limits require declaration and may trigger additional charges.

5.2 Tobacco

Tobacco products are taxable and must be declared. Commercial quantities without a license are prohibited and may be seized.

5.3 Food & Animal-Origin Products

South Africa regulates food imports to protect animal and public health:

Meat, poultry and dairy products require health certificates
Plant-based items may require phytosanitary permits
Non-compliant goods may be confiscated, returned or destroyed

5.4 Medicines, Chemicals & Controlled Goods

Prescription medicines require a doctor’s letter and valid prescription
Chemicals, hazardous materials and lab equipment require import permits
Weapons, ammunition and explosives are tightly controlled

Important: South African customs inspects agricultural and food items frequently. Declare restricted products to avoid penalties.

6. Prohibited Items – Do Not Ship to South Africa

South Africa prohibits the import of certain goods, including:

Narcotics and illegal drugs
Weapons, ammunition and explosives without authorization
Counterfeit goods, pirated media and unlicensed software
Hazardous chemicals or radioactive materials
Endangered wildlife and items protected under CITES
Obscene publications or materials violating public morality laws

Violations may result in seizure, fines or legal prosecution. Declare restricted items and avoid shipping banned goods.

7. Practical Tips for International Moves to South Africa

7.1 Moving from Toronto or the GTA

For a successful international move from Toronto to South Africa, Home To Home Relocations recommends:

Prepare detailed inventories and highlight new or high-value goods
Check residence permit status before shipping
Confirm delivery access at destination properties
Keep receipts for electronics and appliances

7.2 Why choose a South Africa relocation specialist

South Africa has strict customs inspections and valuation rules. Working with a qualified international moving company offers:

Accurate documentation and customs declaration support
Reduced clearance delays and inspection issues
Door-to-door delivery coordination
Guidance on vehicle, pet and restricted goods imports

Relocation Tip: South Africa’s customs clearance can take longer than expected. Plan your arrival and temporary housing accordingly.

8. Useful Official Links – South Africa

Use these official resources for updated import regulations:

This guide supports those planning relocation to South Africa. Final import decisions rest with SARS and relevant authorities.