A clearing instruction is the written mandate authorising your customs broker to declare goods to SARS on your behalf. Most clearing delays start here — a missing tariff code, Incoterm or customs value sends the file back for queries before anything moves.
Shipment details
Nothing you type leaves your browser by default — the sheet is generated locally. If you are signed in, you can explicitly save the pack to My Tools after generating it (saved fields can be reloaded later).
Frequently asked questions
What is a clearing instruction?
The brief you give your clearing agent so they can file the SAD500 customs declaration for your shipment: who you are (importer code), what the goods are (HS code, description, values), where they come from (origin, incoterm), and which supporting documents exist. An incomplete instruction is the single most common cause of clearance delays.
What information does a clearing agent need to clear my shipment?
At minimum: your SARS importer code, supplier details, commercial invoice with currency and incoterm, HS code(s), country of origin, freight and insurance amounts, packing details (packages, weights), the transport document (bill of lading or air waybill), and any permits, Letters of Authority or certificates of origin the goods need.
What is the SAD500?
The SAD500 is South Africa's single administrative document — the master customs declaration (bill of entry) filed electronically with SARS for almost every commercial import and export. Your clearing agent files it from the data in your clearing instruction; errors on it are your legal responsibility as the importer.
Does this tool send my shipment data anywhere?
By default everything stays in your browser while you build and print the sheet. If you are signed in and choose Save, the pack (including the shipment fields you entered) is stored in your TradeCaravan account so you can reload it later — the same as other workspace tools. We do not sell or share your shipment data.