Import & Export Licence Assistance in South Africa
Need help with an import/export licence in South Africa? We’ll confirm whether you need SARS registration only or ITAC permits, then handle the paperwork and follow-ups.
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Import & Export Licence Assistance in South Africa (SARS + ITAC)
If you’re planning to import or export goods in South Africa, the confusing part is usually not the paperwork — it’s figuring out which paperwork actually applies. Most people search for an import export licence South Africa, but in practice that often means SARS Customs importer/exporter registration, and then only in certain cases you may also need an import/export permit in South Africa for controlled goods.
That’s where we help. Brendmo simplifies the process by starting with a quick route check. We look at what you’re importing or exporting, whether it’s personal or business-related, and whether your goods fall under any restricted or controlled categories. This prevents the most common mistake — submitting the right documents to the wrong place, then losing time in back-and-forth while your shipment is already on the way.
Once we’ve confirmed the correct route, we help you prepare the application properly from the start. That includes making sure your business and applicant details match across documents, your goods description is clear, and your supporting paperwork is in order before submission.
For clients who need SARS registration only, we guide the process accordingly. If permits are required, we also assist with the ITAC side where applicable — including an export permit application (South Africa) when the goods category requires it.
This service is designed for business owners, eCommerce sellers, small importers, and growing companies who want to trade confidently without delays. Whether you’re bringing goods in for resale, exporting products to customers abroad, or you’ve been told you need an export licence South Africa or import licence South Africa and you’re not sure where to start — we’ll point you in the right direction and handle the admin with follow-ups until it’s done.
The goal is simple: clarity first, paperwork second. When the route is correct, everything else becomes easier — approvals move faster, customs queries are easier to answer, and you avoid last-minute surprises that cost time and money.
In some cases, you may also need supporting documents such as an export certificate in South Africa (or other permit-related certificates) depending on the goods and destination — we’ll tell you what applies before you submit anything.
People describe this differently — import and export licence South Africa, import export licence, export license South Africa, import export permit South Africa, even import export license near me — so we start by confirming whether you need SARS registration only, or permits as well.
If you’d like, request a callback below. Share a basic description of the goods and your timeline, and we’ll confirm whether you need SARS registration only or SARS + permits — and what the next step should be.
Request a Callback
Tell us what you’re importing/exporting and we’ll confirm the correct route (SARS vs ITAC), then guide you on the fastest next step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I always need an ITAC permit?
No. Many goods don’t require permits. Most businesses start with SARS importer/exporter registration, and only certain controlled categories need an import/export permit South Africa. Tell us what you’re importing/exporting and we’ll confirm the correct route.
Who issues the import/export licence in South Africa?
In most cases, the “import/export licence” people mean is SARS Customs importer/exporter registration. If your goods are controlled, you may also need an ITAC import permit or export permit South Africa approval, depending on the category.
Where do I apply for an import permit or export permit?
It depends on the goods. SARS registration follows the SARS customs route, while controlled goods may require an export permit application South Africa (or import permit application) through ITAC. We’ll guide you to the correct authority and help prepare the submission properly.
How long does it take?
Timelines vary depending on inspections, document readiness, and whether permits are required. Most straightforward cases fall within a 1–3 week window, but controlled categories can take longer. We’ll advise early if your case is likely to take longer.
What documents do you need from me?
Usually company details, authorised person details, proof of address (where applicable), and a clear goods description. A proforma invoice or product list helps a lot. If your goods require permits, we’ll tell you upfront if extra supporting documents or certificate requirements apply (for example, an export certificate South Africa requirement depending on the goods/destination).
Can I do this myself?
Yes, but delays usually happen from incomplete packs or applying at the wrong place. This service helps you avoid back-and-forth by confirming whether you need import license and import permit steps (or export permits) and then handling follow-ups properly.
Does the licence expire?
SARS registration is different from shipment-specific permits. Permits (when required) often have their own validity conditions. We’ll explain exactly what applies to your case so you’re not guessing.
Do you help clients outside Gauteng?
Yes — we assist clients across South Africa. Whether you’re in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, Durban, Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) or anywhere else, you can request a callback and we’ll help you remotely from start to finish.
Can I pay online for this service instead of requesting a callback?
Yes. If you already know what you need (or you’ve spoken to us and want to proceed), you can purchase the service online here: Import & Export Licence Service Package (https://www.brendmo.com/secretarial/service/import-export-license/). If you’re unsure whether you need SARS registration only or SARS + ITAC permits, we recommend contacting us first so we can confirm the correct route and avoid delays.
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