Importing into South Africa with TUNL (Pilot)

Importing into South Africa with TUNL (Pilot)

TUNL now supports import shipments into South Africa directly on the platform.

This allows you to book inbound shipments from international suppliers to a South African address, using the same booking flow you’re familiar with.

How to Book an Import

1. Switch to import mode. At the top of the booking form, use the direction toggle to select "Shipping into ZA". The form flips into import mode — origin becomes your supplier's overseas address, destination becomes your South African delivery address, and duties/collection logic is reframed for imports.
2. Complete the “Origin address” section with your overseas supplier’s details.
3. Add your South African receiving address in the “Destination address” section.
4. Complete the remaining sections — parcels, service (FedEx International Priority or Economy), customs (product descriptions, HS codes, values), duties & taxes, protection, options, and pickup.
5. Complete the booking as usual.

Important Requirements & Notes

1️⃣ Commercial Invoice (Physical Copy Required)

South Africa does not accept electronic commercial invoices for imports.

The sender must:

• Print the commercial invoice
• Place it in a waybill sleeve behind the waybill

Missing physical documentation may cause customs delays.

2️⃣ Collection Best Practice

TUNL books your collection automatically. However, for smoother handling, we recommend that the sender:

• Confirms collection directly with FedEx at origin

OR

• Drops the shipment at a local FedEx depot

This reduces missed collections and transit delays.

3️⃣ Importer / Exporter Code Required

You must have a registered Importer Code to clear goods into South Africa.

Important:

• An importer code is the same number as your exporter code
• But it must be registered with SARS for both importing and exporting

Please confirm your status with SARS or your clearing agent before shipping.

4️⃣ VAT-Registered vs Non-VAT Registered

If your business is VAT-registered, you can reclaim the import VAT through your VAT return. Please request the SAD500 (bill of entry) issued by SARS from us on arrival is in your business's name and VAT number regardless of how duties are billed — that's the document your accountant needs.

5️⃣ Duties & taxes — two options

• Pay on arrival (DAP) — FedEx invoices you directly for duties and VAT when the parcel arrives in South Africa. This is the current default.
• Pre-pay upfront (DDP) — Pay the estimated duties and VAT upfront through TUNL at the point of booking. Useful if you'd prefer a single bundled charge instead of a separate FedEx

invoice later.

Either option gives you a SAD500 in your name, and your import VAT is reclaimable (if you're VAT-registered).

Is This Right for You?

Imports are ideal if you:

• Source products internationally
• Import samples or bulk goods
• Require express inbound shipments

As this is a beta release, we welcome feedback.

🦸‍♀️ Have more questions? We're here to help!

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Updated on: 06/08/2026