I would like to export/import. Where do I start?
You have to register with the South African Revenue Services to receive an Exporters (or Importers) Code before you can ship to or receive goods from other countries
Which details do you need from me to provide a comprehensive quote?
We require information about the product (what it is) as well as the dimensions (Length, Width, Height, Weight) of each piece, the number of similar parcels and quantity of total parcels, the value of the cargo (for customs clearance and insurance purposes), and urgency of shipment, if applicable. We also need to know where the cargo will be collected and the final delivery address, and if there are any restrictions at the collection or delivery points to handle the size of your shipment. Please inform us when the cargo needs special treatment (eg temperature control), or if the cargo is hazardous.
Is it possible to get a quote straight away?
Unfortunately not. Each shipment is unique and we have to consider different options to provide you with the optimal logistic solution.
Is it better to send my goods by air or by sea?
There are many factors to take into consideration. When cargo is small in size but high in value air freight is the obvious choice, but large shipments of low-value freight are usually transported by sea freight. Cost is always a factor. Sea freight is much more economical than air freight, but minimum shipments for sea freight is charged at 1 ton or 1 cbm, whichever is the greater. Another factor is time. Often the urgency of getting the cargo to the destination outweighs the cost benefit of shipping by sea.
Is it necessary to insure my cargo?
Taking our marine insurance is a no-brainer. The risks involved with international shipping are huge, even when employing an experienced team like the Sebenza Freight Services team. Premiums for marine insurance are relatively small and protect the shipper against unforeseen financial losses (is financial loss ever planned?) associated with loss of or damage to cargo or claims when General Average applies.
Which four Incoterms are most commonly applied?
Incoterms define the risks and responsibilities of the seller and the buyer. The four Incoterms most commonly applied are:
EXW (Ex Works): The buyer takes control over the shipment as soon as it leaves the supplier’s premises. The buyer is then responsible for all risks and charges from the supplier’s premises to the final destination.
FOB (Free on Board): All costs and risks are borne by the seller until the cargo is loaded onto the vessel or aircraft. Thereafter the buyer takes over the responsibility for costs and risks until the goods reach the final destination. Certain clauses are applicable for sea and inland water transport.
CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight): The risk is borne by the seller until the cargo is offloaded from the vessel, and all charges are for the seller’s account until the shipment leaves the port. Transport insurance is the responsibility of the seller. The buyer takes over the risk as soon as the cargo is offloaded from the vessel and all charges are for the buyer’s account after the cargo has left the port. Certain clauses are applicable for sea and inland water transport.
DAP (Delivered At Place): The seller agrees to pay all costs and suffer any potential losses of moving goods sold to a specific location. A DAP agreement is applicable for any form, or combination of forms, of transportation. It usually lists the point at which the buyer takes on financial responsibilities, for example, “DAP, Johannesburg.” Once the shipment has arrived at the specified destination, the buyer is responsible for paying clearance fees, import duties, and
What can I do to keep my shipping costs down?
Efficient shipping is about making all necessary documents available when required and about providing correct and comprehensive information about the cargo. It is advisable to inform your shipping agent if you foresee possible practical difficulties when loading or offloading cargo so that trucks with the necessary gear are organised to collect or deliver the cargo. Goods must be ready for collection as arranged to avoid charges for a futile trip from the transporter. Additional rates may apply when goods arrive too early and have to be stored until the carrier can receive the shipment, or when goods arrive late at the port and penalty rates apply. The shipping line may charge additional fees for cleaning the container or repairing damage caused by your shipment. The Department of Customs may levy unforeseen additional charges, but with thorough preparation, these can be kept to a minimum.
The value of the goods I want to ship is not very high. Does this mean that I can get lower shipping costs?
Unfortunately, the value of your cargo has little impact on the shipping cost. Shipping is generally calculated on volumetric or actual gross weight, whichever is the greater. A premium is charged for cargo that needs special attention (like weapons, gold, perishable cargo, etc). The value of your cargo is only taken into account when customs declarations are framed and duties and other taxes are calculated in the destination country. When you ship used personal effects, duties and taxes are not charged. Goods that are imported temporarily (for repairs, or events, etc) can, in certain countries, be imported on an ATA Carnet, in which case no duties or VAT/GST apply.
Which BLNS country is not part of South Africa’s Common Monetary Area?
The Republic of Botswana does not form part of the Common Monetary Area and therefore the same requirements apply to South African residents and visitors entering South Africa from or leaving South Africa to Botswana.