– Services
Customs clearance
Ocean Logistics arranges customs clearance for imports and exports through licensed clearing partners. We help you prepare the right documents, explain the duties and VAT you can expect and keep the process moving, so your goods are not held up at the port, airport or border.
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Who it's for
- Businesses importing goods by sea, air or road
- Exporters who need export declarations
- First-time importers who want the process explained
- Private individuals receiving goods from overseas
What we handle
- Clearance arranged through licensed clearing partners
- Help preparing commercial invoices, packing lists and declarations
- Guidance on expected duties and VAT
- Coordination with the freight or courier shipment
- Advice on permits and restricted goods
How it works
Send us the documents
Commercial invoice, packing list and transport document (bill of lading or air waybill).
We check them
We look for missing or incorrect details that could delay clearance and confirm whether permits are needed.
Declaration and payment
The declaration is submitted by a licensed clearing agent and duties and VAT are confirmed for payment.
Release and delivery
Once released, the goods are delivered to you and you are kept updated along the way.
What we need from you
- Commercial invoice showing the value of the goods
- Packing list
- Bill of lading (sea) or air waybill (air)
- Your importer or exporter details, if registered
- Any permits or certificates for restricted goods
What affects the price
- The type and value of the goods
- Customs duties and VAT, set by SARS and paid separately
- The number of lines on the invoice and the documents required
- Inspections, permits or additional checks
- Storage charges if goods are not cleared in time
- Family-ownedA Cape Town business built on long-term relationships.
- One named contactSpeak to Nick directly, by phone, email or WhatsApp.
- Tracking includedFollow your shipment online with Track Parcel.
- Rated 5.0 on GoogleFrom 42 reviews by our clients.
Frequently asked questions
What documents do I need for customs clearance?
Usually a commercial invoice, a packing list and the transport document: a bill of lading for sea freight or an air waybill for air freight. Some goods also need permits or certificates. We will confirm what your shipment needs.
How are import duty and VAT calculated?
Duty depends on how the goods are classified and their customs value. VAT is then charged at 15% on the customs value plus a 10% uplift, plus any duty. The uplift does not apply to goods from Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia or Eswatini. The rates are set by SARS. We give you an estimate before your goods arrive so the costs are clear.
Why are goods held at customs?
Common reasons are missing or incorrect documents, unpaid duties, a physical inspection, or goods that need a permit. Checking the paperwork before the goods arrive is the best way to avoid delays.
Do I need to register with SARS to import?
Businesses importing goods for commercial purposes generally need to register with SARS for a customs client (importer's) code. Private individuals importing small amounts for their own use usually don't. Ask us and we will advise.
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Ready to move it?
Tell us what you are sending and where it is going. We reply with a clear price and the right service, usually within one business day.