HS code 6506.10 covers Safety headgear (helmets) — for example hard hats, crash helmets. South Africa applies an indicative general customs duty of 0%, on top of which 15% import VAT is charged.
Worked example: landed cost on R100,000 of goods
| Customs value (CIF) | R100,000 |
| Customs duty (0%) | R0 |
| Import VAT (15% on ATV) | R16,500 |
| Estimated landed cost | R116,500 |
VAT is charged on the Added Tax Value (customs value + 10% upliftment for non-SACU imports + duties). Figures exclude clearing, freight and any anti-dumping/safeguard duty. For an exact, all-in figure use the Duty & VAT Calculator.
Where HS 6506.10 sits in the tariff
Classification is decided at heading level first. Heading 6506 is “Headgear; n.e.c. in chapter 65, whether or not lined or trimmed”. If your product is closer to one of the neighbouring subheadings below, that line — and its duty rate — is the one that applies.
- 6506.10 Headgear; safety, whether or not lined or trimmed — this page
- 6506.91 Headgear; (other than safety headgear), of rubber or plastics, whether or not lined or trimmed
- 6506.99 Headgear; (other than safety headgear), (of materials other than rubber or plastic), whether or not lined or trimmed
Harmonised System HS 2022 nomenclature. See the whole of Chapter 65 →
Watch HS 6506.10 for changes
Duty rates, anti-dumping measures and permit rules change by Government Gazette. We’ll email you if this code’s status shifts.
Data current as of 2026-08-06. Indicative general (MFN) rate — real duty can differ at 8-digit level, under trade agreements (SADC, EU-EPA) and by Government Gazette. This is guidance, not a tariff determination under s47(9) of the Customs & Excise Act, 1964. Verify against the current SARS Tariff Book.
Frequently asked questions
What is the import duty on safety headgear (helmets) in South Africa?
HS code 6506.10 (Safety headgear (helmets)) attracts an indicative general customs duty of 0% in South Africa, plus 15% import VAT charged on the Added Tax Value. Verify the exact rate in the current SARS Tariff Book.
What is the HS code for hard hats?
The Harmonised System heading for safety headgear (helmets) is 6506.10. South Africa uses an 8-digit tariff line based on this heading — confirm the precise 8-digit code in the SARS Tariff Book before importing.