Import and export

SARS importer and exporter registration

Before your business can clear goods through customs, it must be registered with SARS Customs and Excise and receive a customs client number. We prepare and submit the registration for you.

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Who needs it

Any business that imports or exports goods commercially, including first-time importers.

Who decides

The South African Revenue Service (SARS), Customs and Excise.

Typical requirements

An application on SARS eFiling (Registration, Licensing and Accreditation), or form DA 185 with the importer (DA 185.4A1) or exporter (DA 185.4A2) annexure
Company registration documents
Certified ID of the applicant or public officer
Proof of physical address, such as a municipal account
Proof of contact details, such as a phone account
Proof of bank details, such as a bank letter or statement
Your tax registration details

If an address or phone account is not in the business's name, SARS asks for a commissioned affidavit.

Also included

Import compliance assessments
ITAC permits

How we help

We gather and check your documents, complete the registration on your behalf where authorised, and resolve any queries from SARS.

1
Understand
We talk through your business activity, goal, deadline and the service you need.
2
Assess
We identify the likely requirements, supporting documents and any gaps.
3
Prepare
We organise and review your documents within the agreed scope.
4
Coordinate
We help with submission and next steps, where you've authorised it.
5
Follow up
We keep you updated and track what's outstanding until it's done.

Frequently asked questions

What is a customs client number?

It's the number SARS Customs gives a registered importer or exporter. You need it to clear goods through customs.

Can I register online?

Yes. Most importers and exporters can apply through SARS eFiling (Registration, Licensing and Accreditation). Some applications still use the manual DA 185 form.

My proof of address isn't in the company's name. What now?

SARS accepts a commissioned affidavit to support documents that aren't in the applicant's name.

This page is a summary to help you prepare, not legal advice. Requirements change and depend on your situation, so we confirm the exact list with the relevant authority when we assess your application. Approval is always the authority's decision.