A CV is read twice — first by applicant tracking software that parses it for structure, then by a person. Multi-column layouts and photos read well to the person and parse badly for the software, which is why the designed PDF and the ATS-safe copy are separate exports rather than one compromise.
Try the live builder
Edit the sample CV — the preview updates instantly. Sign up free to save, add your photo and download PDFs.
Already have a CV? Start from it Upload a PDF or Word file, or paste the text — we fill the form in for you.
Drop your CV here or
PDF, Word (.docx) or plain text, up to 5 MB.
Old .doc files need to be saved as .docx first.
We read the file to fill in the form and then discard it — your CV is never stored on our servers, and nothing is saved until you press Save.
- Live preview as you type — like Resume.io and Canva.
- 9 themes + 4 fonts — 3 themes free; ATS Clean and more on Pro.
- Photo crop + LinkedIn / portfolio links — built for SA applications.
- 1 free CV forever — R19 per extra, or unlimited on Pro. Deletes don’t recycle the slot.
Frequently asked questions
Is this CV maker really free in South Africa?
Yes. Every signed-in Trade Caravan account can build one CV completely free, forever — with live preview, three free themes, unlimited edits and PDF downloads, no watermark and no card required. Extra CVs are free on a Pro plan, or a once-off R19 each on the free plan. Deleting a CV does not free up another create — the free slot is lifetime.
Can I preview my CV before downloading the PDF?
Yes. The builder shows a live preview on the right as you type — pick a theme and font, add a photo, skills and experience, and see the branded CV update instantly before you save or download.
Can I upload a photo to my CV?
Yes. Upload a PNG, JPG, WEBP or GIF and crop it to a square. Some corporate ATS systems prefer CVs without a photo — use the ATS Clean theme (Pro) or untick “Show photo” when you need a text-only version.
What should a South African CV include?
A strong SA CV includes your full name and contact details, LinkedIn or portfolio links, a short personal profile, key skills and languages, work experience (most recent first), education, driver’s licence where relevant, and contactable references. This tool gives you a labelled field for each.
Do I need to pay or sign up to make a CV?
You can try the live demo without an account. To save and download you sign in with a free Trade Caravan account — there is no charge for your first CV, ever. You only pay if you want several CV versions on a free plan (R19 once-off each), or you can go unlimited on Pro.