Customs...... Processes

[Tiny K]

I am looking at importing a few things from CRC. I know what the import dutie will cost laready (checked out the thread re import duties).

 

The question I ask is the technicalities of the whole process. I am looking at buying two tyres and that attracts no import duties = 14% VAT only.

 

BUT what is the process once this order reaches our shores? How long does it take to clear customs? What is the cost of clearing customs (should be free coz that is what you pay tax for, but come on, this is SA after all)?

 

Please let me know of your experience and what to look out for. Thanks

[Tuxstir]

well so far my 2 orders i've placed both below R800 the first one was R30 clearance and the second was R30 clearance and R63 vat.

so expect a small clearance charge.

[Tiny K]

well so far my 2 orders i've placed both below R800 the first one was R30 clearance and the second was R30 clearance and R63 vat.

so expect a small clearance charge.

 

Thanks

 

but what was the process - do they let you know that your package is there? via sms or call? do you send it via 'tracking number' parcel?

 

Like I said, I am clueless to this new direction.... normally I would phone around, see which of the bike shops are cheapest, and go buy what I want.

 

Problem here is that no-one has the tyres that I am looking for.

[Pusher]

If your order is below the free shipping limit it will be sent via Royal Mail which is sloooow. My last order took about three weeks. I got a note from the local Post Office. Paid the required duties and off I went.

[Panda CT]

Customs use the invoice attached to the import to calculate the duties payable. You then have to collect from the post office, pay the funds outstanding. No paperwork etc. Just pay and take away.

[Tiny K]

Thanks all. So I guess it would be better to order a large parcel to get it sent via courier and tracking number = faster...... hmmm, good to know.

[Minion]

Thanks all. So I guess it would be better to order a large parcel to get it sent via courier and tracking number = faster...... hmmm, good to know.

Just remember to keep cash on hand. In my experience, the Post Office only takes COD for the duties - no credit cards or bank transfers. This can be a bit inconvenient when they show up unexpectedly at your front door wanting R1000+ in cash.

[deanbean]

I've found it best to the Parcel force tracked option, bit more expensive, but not sig slower than using the courier.

[GrumpyOldGuy]

Thanks all. So I guess it would be better to order a large parcel to get it sent via courier and tracking number = faster...... hmmm, good to know.

 

Usually the case yes.

 

When you use a courier, they take the weight and the volume of the parcel into account and charge on the higher of the two. Ideally its best if you weight and volume match as then you don't pay to ship air, but this seldom happens.

 

Check with the courier as to minimums as well, some couriers have minimum tariffs they charge irrespective of the weight / volume, but in general I would say shipping a tyre or two by courier is a waste of money, for such a small parcel the postal system is the cheapest - of course the SA post office is largely useless and post often go's walk about so take insurance if its offered. A courier is much more reliable and delivers to your door, insurance is usually available as standard so.......I guess its a personal choice, run the risk of the postal system and get it cheaply, or pay more and be sure of getting it.?

[RodTi]

Tiny K - going to move this over to the Online Shopping forum.