Understanding and Using Your Exporters Code for International Shipping
This article explains the importance of an Exporter / Customs Code for merchants shipping goods internationally. It provides a step-by-step guide to obtaining an Exporter Code, how to use it during shipping, and why it’s a critical requirement for compliance with customs regulations.
You can ship with your SA ID at a threshold of R150 000 per annum, however, we highly recommend obtaining an exporter code.
What are the pros of shipping with an exporter code instead of your ID?
Simplified Customs Clearance
The exporter code is typically linked directly to your business in government and customs systems, which makes the clearance process faster and more efficient. Customs authorities can quickly verify the identity of the exporter, ensuring that all relevant paperwork (like invoices and declarations) is in order.
An exporter ID may not have this same direct connection, so additional verification steps might be needed.
Regulatory Compliance
Having an exporter code ensures that your business complies with international trade regulations. It’s often a requirement for exporters to have one to participate in certain trade agreements or benefit from preferential tariff rates.
An exporter ID alone might not provide the same level of detail or verification needed for some regulatory requirements.
Streamlined Documentation
When you use an exporter code, you’re providing a unique identifier that is typically pre-registered in the customs or trade system. This helps streamline your export documentation, ensuring it’s consistent across shipments and reduces the chances of mistakes.
Without an exporter code, you might have to manually verify and provide your business details each time, which can slow down the process.
Access to Trade Programs
Many countries require exporters to have an exporter code to access special trade programs (like free trade agreements, export incentives, or preferential tariffs). This code is often linked to benefits or rebates that can reduce costs in the long run.
Using an exporter code also ties you into the system for handling duties, taxes, and potential refunds more efficiently, making your overall export experience smoother.
Trackability and Transparency
With an exporter code, your shipments and exports can be tracked through official government or customs databases, allowing for better visibility and management of your goods. This is especially useful for monitoring shipping compliance and resolving disputes.
Using a general exporter ID might not allow for the same level of traceability or linkage to government systems.
Reduced Risk of Fraud
Since an exporter code is officially issued and registered by the government or customs authorities, it reduces the risk of fraudulent activities or misidentification. It assures buyers and customs that you’re a legitimate exporter.
An exporter ID could be more generic or less regulated, potentially leading to higher risks in certain contexts.
Easier to Access Export Documentation
Some international trade platforms or shipping services require the exporter code to complete and process specific export documents (like export declarations, bills of lading, etc.). This helps in keeping all the export paperwork aligned and compliant with trade laws.
Using an exporter ID might limit access to some of these integrated services.
Can I ship without an exporter code?
We generally prefer merchants to have an exporter code before shipping with us. However, you can ship with your ID temporarily. Please use the following guidelines to help you obtain an Exporter Code for future shipments.
Option 1 :
Do it yourself via SARS e-filing
You can register directly as an individual or as a business directly on SARS e-filing.
The process is a bit clumsy but possible. Here is a guide:
( https://drive.google.com/file/d/12JUDeKOcYdkPtSTc5ccheVBzZS2Oii5O/view?usp=sharing )
Option 2 :
Registered customs consultant
We are not set up to process exporter code applications, but we can refer you to a very thorough customs consultant who can help you.
His name is Graeme Lennie, and he's the MD of The Customs Hub.
Here are his contacts:
(graeme@thecustomshub.co.za ) / 0823416238
He will process it for you for a fee. There are a lot of documents involved (thanks to bureaucracy!), but it really is worthwhile having it.
Please mention you were referred to by TUNL.
Option 3 :
Through the process of using Import Export Services:
https://importexportlicense.co.za/product/import-and-export-license/
You can contact Telana, and mention the referral from TUNL:
Telana Swart
Email: telana@importexportlicense.co.za
Phone: 087 550 1038
Web: www.importexportlicense.co.za
If you ship items without an exporter code, FedEx may reach out to you to request one. Alternatively, you can provide your ID or Passport number as a substitute for the exporter code. It's essential to be aware that FedEx permits this substitution for a maximum of three parcels. Continued shipment of parcels without an exporter code may result in potential delays or holds.
For more information, email us: support@tunl.to
Keywords: Exporter Code registration | International shipping compliance | Customs Exporter Code | How to get an Exporter Code | Shipping documentation guide | Exporter Code requirements | TUNL Exporter Code
You can ship with your SA ID at a threshold of R150 000 per annum, however, we highly recommend obtaining an exporter code.
What are the pros of shipping with an exporter code instead of your ID?
Simplified Customs Clearance
The exporter code is typically linked directly to your business in government and customs systems, which makes the clearance process faster and more efficient. Customs authorities can quickly verify the identity of the exporter, ensuring that all relevant paperwork (like invoices and declarations) is in order.
An exporter ID may not have this same direct connection, so additional verification steps might be needed.
Regulatory Compliance
Having an exporter code ensures that your business complies with international trade regulations. It’s often a requirement for exporters to have one to participate in certain trade agreements or benefit from preferential tariff rates.
An exporter ID alone might not provide the same level of detail or verification needed for some regulatory requirements.
Streamlined Documentation
When you use an exporter code, you’re providing a unique identifier that is typically pre-registered in the customs or trade system. This helps streamline your export documentation, ensuring it’s consistent across shipments and reduces the chances of mistakes.
Without an exporter code, you might have to manually verify and provide your business details each time, which can slow down the process.
Access to Trade Programs
Many countries require exporters to have an exporter code to access special trade programs (like free trade agreements, export incentives, or preferential tariffs). This code is often linked to benefits or rebates that can reduce costs in the long run.
Using an exporter code also ties you into the system for handling duties, taxes, and potential refunds more efficiently, making your overall export experience smoother.
Trackability and Transparency
With an exporter code, your shipments and exports can be tracked through official government or customs databases, allowing for better visibility and management of your goods. This is especially useful for monitoring shipping compliance and resolving disputes.
Using a general exporter ID might not allow for the same level of traceability or linkage to government systems.
Reduced Risk of Fraud
Since an exporter code is officially issued and registered by the government or customs authorities, it reduces the risk of fraudulent activities or misidentification. It assures buyers and customs that you’re a legitimate exporter.
An exporter ID could be more generic or less regulated, potentially leading to higher risks in certain contexts.
Easier to Access Export Documentation
Some international trade platforms or shipping services require the exporter code to complete and process specific export documents (like export declarations, bills of lading, etc.). This helps in keeping all the export paperwork aligned and compliant with trade laws.
Using an exporter ID might limit access to some of these integrated services.
Can I ship without an exporter code?
We generally prefer merchants to have an exporter code before shipping with us. However, you can ship with your ID temporarily. Please use the following guidelines to help you obtain an Exporter Code for future shipments.
To apply for an exporter code:
Option 1 :
Do it yourself via SARS e-filing
You can register directly as an individual or as a business directly on SARS e-filing.
The process is a bit clumsy but possible. Here is a guide:
( https://drive.google.com/file/d/12JUDeKOcYdkPtSTc5ccheVBzZS2Oii5O/view?usp=sharing )
Option 2 :
Registered customs consultant
We are not set up to process exporter code applications, but we can refer you to a very thorough customs consultant who can help you.
His name is Graeme Lennie, and he's the MD of The Customs Hub.
Here are his contacts:
(graeme@thecustomshub.co.za ) / 0823416238
He will process it for you for a fee. There are a lot of documents involved (thanks to bureaucracy!), but it really is worthwhile having it.
Please mention you were referred to by TUNL.
Option 3 :
Through the process of using Import Export Services:
https://importexportlicense.co.za/product/import-and-export-license/
You can contact Telana, and mention the referral from TUNL:
Telana Swart
Email: telana@importexportlicense.co.za
Phone: 087 550 1038
Web: www.importexportlicense.co.za
If you ship items without an exporter code, FedEx may reach out to you to request one. Alternatively, you can provide your ID or Passport number as a substitute for the exporter code. It's essential to be aware that FedEx permits this substitution for a maximum of three parcels. Continued shipment of parcels without an exporter code may result in potential delays or holds.
For more information, email us: support@tunl.to
Keywords: Exporter Code registration | International shipping compliance | Customs Exporter Code | How to get an Exporter Code | Shipping documentation guide | Exporter Code requirements | TUNL Exporter Code
Updated on: 17/02/2025
Thank you!