IT Equipment Import Requirements in South Africa

South Africa is a leading ICT hub and an ideal destination for importers targeting regional distribution and resale of ICT equipment. However, stringent rules governing electronic, electrical, and telecommunication equipment can be challenging to navigate. This article discusses the requirements for importing IT equipment to South Africa and how an importer of record like Blackthornecan help.

7 Requirements for Importing IT Equipment to South Africa

Here are the seven key requirements for importing electrical, electronic, and telecommunication equipment to South Africa:

1. ICASA Type Approval

The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) requires telecom and radio frequency (RF) devices to undergo type approval before they can be imported, sold, or used in South Africa.

The regulation ensures equipment:

Operates within specific parameters, avoiding interference with existing networks (technical standards)
Doesn’t harm other electronic equipment (electromagnetic)
Meets ICASA-established safety and performance criteria (safety and performance standards)

Here are the compliance requirements for ICASA-type approval:

CE test reports less than 5 years old
A local representative
ICASA label with certificate number
EMC testing (unless equipment is already ICASA-certified
Certification renewal is required each month for cellular products
SABS EMC approval for each end product (unless equipment is ICASA-approved)

2. SABS Safety Approval

SABS Approval is a certification issued by the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS), the National standardization body.

The certification serves as proof that the equipment complies with established quality, safety, and performance standards.

Devices requiring ICASA approval, such as wireless equipment, do not necessarily need a SABS approval. This is because EMC and low-voltage reports (and accompanying documentation) are part of ICASA’s approval requirements.

Here are the compliance requirements for SABS approval:

CB or UL test reports
Product sample submission for in-country testing
Mandatory factory testing (SABS CoC testing). The manufacturer covers the inspector’s travel expenses
A local representative should submit the required documentation

3. NRCS Approval

NRCS approval is a certification for all electrical equipment that connects to the mains power.

The National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS) issues the certification as proof of compliance with South African safety and energy efficiency standards.

Here are the compliance requirements for NRCS certification:

CB report less than 3 years old linked to Safety Test Report
After review of the compliance folder, NRCS may request a product sample for in-country testing
NRCS-issued Letter of Authority (LOA)

4. Labelling Requirements

ICASA and SABS require product labelling in the following criteria:

ICASA

Obtain the label from ICASA after paying the applicable fee, or write to ICASA requesting to produce your own label
Affix the label to the equipment before importing, selling, or leasing the equipment
The label must bear the ICASA logo and the certification number (TA XXXX-YYYY) provided
Ensure the label is visible (at least 3mm × 3mm for the logo) and protected against damage
You can utilise E-labelling via a written request to ICASA

SABS

The label must include:

Manufacturer’s brand name or permit number
Model number
Ratings requirements, including voltage, frequency, and current
Standard number (if only a part of the specification is tested)

Note: NRCS approval does not require labelling. Rather, a Letter of Approval from ICASA serves as proof of compliance

5. Customs Requirements

To facilitate a timely customs clearance, you must:

Register as an importer with the South African Revenue Service (SARS)
Have a valid South African business registration number (customs code)
Obtain an importer code
File an electronic Customs Clearance Declaration (CCD) through a licensed customs broker, an importer of record, or directly via SARS eFiling
Pay applicable duties and taxes
Submit relevant documentation

6. Duties and Taxes

The standard VAT is 15%
The average import duty rate for mechanical, office, computing machinery, electrical machinery, and electronic equipment is between 5% and 7%.

7. Documentation Requirements

You must submit the following documents electronically via the SARS:

Packing List
Bill of Entry (SAD 500)
Bill of Lading/Airway Bill
Commercial Invoice (original)
Declaration of Invoice Authenticity
Import permits/approvals/certifications
Certificate of Origin (for application of preferential tariffs)

Import with an IOR

Use our online calculator to see how much it costs to ship to the USA with Blackthorne IT

Import into South Africa with Blackthorne IOR

Blackthorne IOR supports business growth while expanding to South Africa in three main ways:

Local Entity Representation

You must not establish a local office in South Africa, as we can represent you and handle all the customs procedures.

360° Compliance

We ensure adherence to all import requirements and procedures before and after importation.

Cost Saving

We coordinate the global supply chain procedures, eliminate non-compliance expenses for a safe, compliant, and low-cost importation.

Import into South Africa with Blackthorne IOR Services

You can reach us via email sales@blackthorneit.com or call us to start importing IT equipment to South Africa.

South Africa