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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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Question:
A tariff heading or HS code is a classification code used in international trade to identify and categorize goods for customs purposes. It determines the duty payable on imports and exports. This classification is part of the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System under the World Customs Organization. Our experts can help determine the correct HS code for your products and assist with any necessary SARS Customs Tariff Determination applications.
- Customs
Question:
A TDN, or Tariff Determination Notice, refers to a decision issued by the South African Revenue Service (SARS) concerning the classification of goods under the Customs and Excise Act. This ruling defines the applicable tariff rates, duties, and taxes for imported or exported goods. Importers and exporters can request a TDN from SARS to obtain a binding classification of their goods, ensuring compliance with customs regulations and avoiding potential penalties.
- Customs
Question:
A VAT404 statement details the amounts settled to SARS Customs for VAT and Duties on behalf of an importer. This important document will assist in substantiating the refund of VAT on your regular VAT201 claims.
- Customs
Question:
A VOC, or Voucher of Correction, is a tool used by importers and exporters in South Africa to correct mistakes or omissions in their customs declarations to the South African Revenue Service (SARS). It ensures accurate recording of information, which is crucial for the proper assessment of duties and taxes, adherence to customs regulations, and smooth conduct of trade processes.
- Customs
Question:
An (M)SDS, or Material Safety Data Sheet, is a detailed document that provides essential information about the properties, hazards, handling, storage, and emergency procedures related to a chemical substance. It is crucial for ensuring the safety of personnel and the environment when dealing with hazardous materials.
- Freight
Question:
An isotank (or ISO tank) is a specialized type of container designed for the transport of liquids, gases, and powders in bulk. Because these tanks comply with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) regulations, ensuring they can be used safely and efficiently across the global transportation network, including ships, rail, and trucks. ISO tanks are suitable for use with hazardous or non-hazardous materials.
- Freight
Question:
The calculation for airfreight volume is done by multiplying the length, breadth, and height of the package in centimeters and then dividing the result by 6000. This gives the volumetric weight, which is a key factor in determining airfreight charges.
For example, if the dimensions of your package are 100 cm (length) x 80 cm (breadth) x 50 cm (height), the calculation would be:
Airfreight Volume = 100 × 80 × 50 ÷ 6000 = 80kg (volumetric weight)
This means the airfreight volume would be 80 kg.
- Freight
Question:
IATA TACT Rates are rates published by The International Air Transport Association (IATA) three times a year. TACT rates are published between city pairs and can be specific to carrier and to unit load device (ULD) rate type. They are openly accessible, and are also referred to as “General Cargo Rates (GCR), “TACT Tariffs”, or “TACT Rates”. Airlines have to, for most countries, file tariffs with the relevant air transportation agency, and thse tariffs will also be used for Airwaybill rating and serve as a base for the calculation of special commodities. TACT rates can differ from the rates actually paid as these are often negotiated on a contract basis.
- Freight
Question:
The maximum weight and size of cargo that an aircraft can take vary depending on the type of aircraft. Here are a few examples of major cargo aircraft and their capacities:
Boeing 747-400F:
Maximum Payload: Approximately 113,000 kg (249,000 lbs)
Cargo Volume: 600 cubic meters
Maximum Dimensions: Typically accommodates pallets up to 3.1 meters in height.
Airbus A330-200F:
Maximum Payload: Approximately 65,000 kg (143,300 lbs)
Cargo Volume: 475 cubic meters
Maximum Dimensions: Can accommodate large cargo with pallets up to 2.4 meters in height.
Boeing 777F:
Maximum Payload: Approximately 102,000 kg (224,900 lbs)
Cargo Volume: 518 cubic meters
Maximum Dimensions: Pallets up to 3 meters in height can be loaded.
Antonov An-124:
Maximum Payload: Approximately 150,000 kg (330,693 lbs)
Cargo Volume: 1,040 cubic meters
Maximum Dimensions: It is known for transporting oversized cargo, with a cargo hold length of up to 36 meters.
Each aircraft has its unique specifications, so it’s essential to choose the right one based on the size and weight of your cargo.
- Freight
