Customs & Duties
How to Get an Importers & Exporters Code in South Africa
Before you can legally import or export commercial goods in South Africa, you need a customs client number — an Importers or Exporters Code — registered with SARS. Here’s what it is, who needs one, and how the registration works under the modern RLA system.
What the Importers / Exporters Code is
An Importers or Exporters Code is your registration as a customs client with SARS. It links every declaration, duty payment, and clearance to your business. Without one, your goods can’t be entered for home consumption — clearing agents and carriers will turn the shipment away.
Who needs to register
Any business or individual importing or exporting commercial goods needs to register. There are limited exceptions for very occasional, low-value private imports, but anyone trading regularly — or importing for resale — must have a code. If you’re importing for business, assume you need one.
How to register: the RLA process
Registration runs through SARS’s Registration, Licensing and Accreditation (RLA) system, part of the New Customs Acts Programme (NCAP). You apply for a customs client number and, depending on your activity, any related licences. The application is submitted electronically with supporting documents and, once approved, gives you the code you trade under.
Documents you’ll need
Typically you’ll need your company registration details, an income-tax reference and tax clearance, proof of banking details, and proof of business address. Foreign businesses without a local entity usually need to appoint a registered agent. Getting the supporting pack complete and consistent the first time avoids back-and-forth with SARS.
What you'll need
Registration document pack
• Company registration documents
• Income-tax reference & tax clearance
• Proof of banking details
• Proof of business address
• Registered agent (for foreign businesses)
We’ll tell you exactly which apply to your situation and prepare the application for you.
How long it takes and common hold-ups
A clean application is processed reasonably quickly, but mismatched details, an outstanding tax matter, or missing supporting documents will stall it. The most common delays come from incomplete paperwork rather than the registration itself. Building the file properly up front is the fastest route.
Let Atrax handle the registration
We register importers and exporters with SARS as part of our day-to-day work. We assemble the documents, lodge the RLA application, and get your code issued — then clear your cargo end to end once you’re trading. It’s the first step we set up for new importers.
Related service
Customs Registration Services
Before you can import, you need a registered Importers Code and the right SARS registrations. Atrax sets all of this up for you and clears your cargo end to end.
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Need an Importers Code to start trading?
We’ll register you with SARS and have your code sorted, then handle the clearances. Send us your details for a quote within 24 hours.