Shipping and Removals in Cape Town

Expats wishing to ship their belongings to Cape Town have various options. They may choose to use air or sea freight. Costs vary depending on the distance travelled, the volume of goods, and the form of transport used.

Air freight is quick but expensive, while shipping by sea is slower but also cheaper. Some expats divide their belongings up according to urgency, transporting essentials by air and less essential, bulkier items by sea.

Shipping goods to Cape Town

The Port of Cape Town is a major shipping hub in Africa, making shipping your goods to the city a viable option. Expats can ship their household goods and personal belongings to South Africa duty-free if they have been in use for at least six months before the shipment. If you're shipping your goods to Cape Town, you'll need to be in the country at least 10 days before your shipment arrives. 

Returning South Africans who have been outside the country for an uninterrupted six months also qualify for duty-free shipping. A detailed packing inventory will be required, and expats must also provide proof of ownership and usage of the goods. 

Certain items like vehicles and medical equipment may require import permits, so we recommend conducting research when shipping goods to Cape Town. 

Useful links

• South African Revenue Services (SARS) – Customs and Excises 

Shipping pets to Cape Town

To bring pets into South Africa, a valid import permit and veterinary health certificate are required. Vaccinations against rabies and microchip implantations are mandatory for both dogs and cats.

Without the required documentation, pets will be quarantined and released only once the necessary paperwork has been submitted. Expats should also be aware that dogs from certain countries are subject to a standard quarantine as a matter of course.