Registration type
We confirm whether you need an importer code, exporter code, or both, based on your trade.
SARS Customs
Get your Import / Export licence number.
Bringing goods into South Africa or shipping them out? You need a SARS Customs importer or exporter code first. Smartbook registers your company with SARS Customs so you can clear goods legally.
What you get
- SARS Customs importer or exporter code
- Customs client registration handled end-to-end
- Correct registration for your goods and trade
- Number delivered so you can clear shipments
From
R2 500
Turnaround
20 days
For
South African companies importing or exporting goods
You can't legally clear goods through South African customs without a registered importer or exporter code from SARS Customs. Whether you're bringing in stock, machinery or raw materials, or shipping products abroad, this registration is the licence that makes cross-border trade possible — and clearing agents and freight forwarders will ask for it before they move anything.
The Customs client registration process has its own forms, requirements and turnaround, separate from your normal tax registrations. Smartbook handles it for you: we register your company with SARS Customs, apply for the correct import and/or export code, and deliver the number so your goods can move.
When you need this
Register for a Customs code when you:
- Import goods, stock or equipment into South Africa
- Export products or goods to other countries
- Need to clear a shipment already sitting at customs
- Are asked for an importer/exporter code by a clearing agent
- Want to claim back VAT paid at customs on imports
What's included
Customs application
We prepare and submit your SARS Customs client registration application.
Document review
We check your supporting documents so SARS doesn't reject or delay the application.
SARS follow-up
We manage any queries from SARS Customs until the code is issued.
Your code delivered
We email your importer/exporter code so you can start clearing goods.
Next-step guidance
We point you to what's next, like VAT registration to claim import VAT back.
How it works
Tell us your trade
Let us know whether you're importing, exporting or both, and what goods you deal in.
We register you
We prepare and submit the Customs client registration and follow up with SARS.
You get your code
We deliver your importer/exporter code so you can clear shipments legally.
What we need from you
- Registered company (CIPC certificate)
- Company SARS tax reference number
- Business bank account details
- Director's certified ID and proof of address
- Proof of business address
Common questions
Do I really need an import/export licence?
Yes. SARS Customs requires a registered importer or exporter code before you can legally clear goods across the border. Clearing agents and freight forwarders won't process shipments without it.
How long does registration take?
Around 20 working days once we have your documents, though SARS turnaround can vary. If a shipment is waiting, tell us and we'll prioritise getting it moving.
Do I need separate codes for importing and exporting?
They're separate registrations. If you do both, we register you for both so you're covered in either direction.
Should I register for VAT too?
If you import, VAT registration lets you claim back the VAT you pay at customs, which can significantly improve cash flow. We can handle your VAT registration alongside the Customs code.
What documents do you need?
Your CIPC certificate, SARS tax number, business bank details, and the director's certified ID and proof of address. We'll confirm the full list once we know what you're trading.
Can you help with ongoing customs and tax?
Yes. Beyond registration, our accounting plans can keep your VAT and tax affairs in order so importing and exporting stays smooth and compliant.
Related services
Last reviewed: June 2026. Smartbook keeps this page current with CIPC and SARS rules.
Ready to get this sorted?
Tell us about your company and we'll send a free compliance check.
Register for import/export