Can you even import the car?
South Africa restricts used-vehicle imports to protect the local industry. You generally cannot import a second-hand car simply to use or resell it. ITAC issues permits only for specific categories, including:
- Immigrants taking up permanent residence (one vehicle, conditions apply).
- Returning residents who owned and used the vehicle abroad.
- Inherited vehicles.
- Vintage / collectors’ vehicles (typically older than a set age).
- Specially adapted vehicles for persons with disabilities.
- Racing / non-road vehicles.
The permits you need
- ITAC import permit — apply to the International Trade Administration Commission in your qualifying category before shipping.
- Letter of Authority (LOA) from the NRCS (National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications) confirming the vehicle meets SA compulsory standards.
- Police clearance and SARS registration of the import.
What it costs to clear
On top of the purchase price and shipping, a vehicle attracts several charges at the border:
| Charge | Basis |
|---|---|
| Customs duty | Percentage by vehicle type/tariff (often around 25% for cars) |
| Ad valorem excise | Sliding scale based on value |
| Import VAT | 15% of the ATV (customs value + 10% + duty) |
| Shipping & clearing | RoRo/container freight + agent fees |
Together these can add well over half the car’s value, so model the full landed cost before you commit. Confirm the exact duty and ad valorem rates with SARS or your clearing agent for your specific vehicle.
Estimate the duty & VAT
Use the calculator to ballpark the duty and 15% VAT on the landed value.
Open the Duty & VAT Calculator →The process, step by step
- Confirm you qualify under an ITAC category.
- Apply for the ITAC import permit and the NRCS Letter of Authority.
- Get police clearance and arrange shipping (RoRo or container).
- Appoint a clearing agent and prepare the import documents.
- Pay duty, ad valorem and VAT on arrival; clear customs.
- Register and licence the vehicle locally (roadworthy, eNatis).
Frequently asked questions
Can I import a used car into South Africa to resell?
Generally no. Used-vehicle imports are restricted to specific categories such as immigrants, returning residents, inherited, vintage and specially adapted vehicles. There is no general permit to import a second-hand car for resale.
Do I need a permit before the car ships?
Yes. Obtain the ITAC import permit and NRCS Letter of Authority before the vehicle is shipped, or you risk it being stuck at the port.
How much duty and VAT will I pay?
Expect customs duty (often around 25% for cars), ad valorem excise on a sliding scale, and 15% import VAT on the Added Tax Value. Combined, taxes can exceed half the vehicle’s value — confirm exact rates with SARS.
What is a Letter of Authority?
An LOA from the NRCS confirms the imported vehicle complies with South Africa’s compulsory specifications. You need it to register the vehicle.
Related guides
Sources: ITAC; NRCS; SARS. Last updated June 2026. Informational only — verify your eligibility and rates with ITAC and SARS.