South Africa to Saudi Arabia Freight: Durban, Cape Town and Johannesburg

Documents you need

• Commercial invoice with HS codes, values, Incoterm and country of origin
• Packing list matching the invoice line for line
• Certificate of origin from the origin chamber of commerce
• Bill of lading or air waybill, issued by us or the carrier
• SABER and SFDA certificates or permits, where required
• Importer details: CR, VAT number and customs importer code

Mismatched details are the most common cause of clearance delays. We check the full set before your cargo ships.

SABER, SFDA and restricted goods

Most regulated products need a Product Certificate (PCoC) and a Shipment Certificate (SCoC) on SABER. The SCoC must be issued before the customs declaration is filed, or cargo cannot clear.

Food, cosmetics, medical devices and pharmaceuticals need SFDA registration or a release permit. Alcohol, pork products and narcotics cannot be imported.

Duty and VAT

Customs duty is charged on the CIF value. Most goods attract 5%, some are duty-free and some carry higher rates. VAT of 15% is then charged on CIF plus duty.

We confirm the exact duty rate for your HS code with your quote, so there are no surprises on arrival.

Which Incoterm?

FOB (recommended): your supplier loads the vessel; we handle everything after. You control cost and timing.

EXW: we collect from the factory. Best when the supplier has no export experience.

CIF / CFR: the supplier books freight. Cheaper upfront, less control, higher destination charges.

DAP / DDP: delivered to your door. DAP quoted as standard; DDP case by case.