Moving to South Africa

Peace of Mind Comes from Knowing What to Expect

Moving from China to South Africa? Shipping Furniture & Personal Effects to South Africa?
RapidWorld Relocations is a leading international moving company in China with offices in Beijing, Guangzhou and Shanghai. 

Submit a quote requestemail us or call us at 86-21-5443-6852, and we will get back to you shortly.

South Africa - South Africa

RapidWorld Relocations is the go-to international company for international moves from and to any location worldwide. For all those relocating to South Africa, we have extensive experience as a moving company to South Africa. We have an international moving network, experience and know-how to help you every step of the way; planning, coordinating and tracking your overseas move to perfection! As a highly regarded overseas moving company, RapidWorld Relocations understands that moving to South Africa may seem a bit daunting, however, we will ensure that your experience is as smooth, stress-free and successful as possible. If you’re looking for an overseas moving company worthy of your trust, contact RapidWorld Relocations today and receive a FREE quote!

Make sure that you give yourself plenty of time prior to moving to South Africa to obtain your visa as it can take a substantial amount of time in some cases.


When it comes to moving from China to South Africa, there is a process that is long established and RapidWorld is able to help you resolve any issues. From arranging visas, finding properties and school places, to helping you decide what to take, packing it and shipping it to your new home, you won’t be alone. Our services cover whole China span including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Tianjin, Wuhan, Hangzhou, Suzhou, Guilin, Guiyang, Xiamen, Jinan, Nanchang, Changchun, Harbin, etc. We can move you to everywhere in South Africa including Vienna, Graz, Salzburg, Hallstatt, Innsbruck, etc. Here below are some important information regarding moving personal used household goods and effects to South Africa. Please feel free to contact us should you have any question.


If you have any questions regarding moving overseas or you wish to begin scheduling moving to South Africa, please contact us. We’d love to hear from you!


PROHIBITED ITEMS
 
The following is not permitted into South Africa and if included in shipments will result in seizure of all prohibited items and possible legal penalties against the shipper:
 -Fresh fruit and vegetables
-Soil and sand
-Drugs of any kind including DHEA’s, narcotics, hallucinogens, amphetamines, barbiturates, tranquillizers and steroids.
-Weapons including firearms or parts, ammunition, replica firearms, spring bladed knives, daggers, knuckle dusters, swords and martial arts equipment.
-Exposed cinematographic (movie) film or videotape depicting death or pornographic material involving children or animals.
-Medicines (whether prescribed by a medical practitioner or not) including herbal.

 
RESTRICTED ITEMS
-Alcohol, tobacco products, perfume
-Foodstuffs, beverages and other consumables
-New items, appliances and gifts are subject to duties
-Weapons and ammunition require a special license
-Plants and certain plant products require a plant protection certificate
-Objects of art, antiques, invoice for goods in duplicate (if applicable, expert appraisal)


DOCUMENTS REQUIRED
 
-EXPATRIATES
 -Passport in original
-Original Residence Permit 
-Original Work Permit
-Forms DA 304 and P.1.160 (in triplicate, which will be provided by moving company)
-Letter from employer to verify contract in South Africa
-Packing list (provided by moving company)


-RETURNING Citizens
 -Passport in original
-Proof of living abroad for more than 12 months
-Forms DA 304 and P.1.160 (in triplicate, which will be provided by moving company)
-Packing list (provided by moving company)

 
-DIPLOMATS
 -Passport
-Certificate A or B from a relevant Embassy in South Africa and countersigned by Department of Foreign Affairs in Pretoria-Comprehensive inventory list for attestation

 
 
CLEARANCE PROCEDURES
 Owner of the shipment must be in South Africa 10 days before vessel arrives for Customs clearance purposes. Returning South African citizens must have resided abroad for an unbroken period of at least six (6) months to have duty-free importation of household goods.“Ad Valorem” wharfage, terminal, examination fees, etc. are payable by owner on all shipments at destination and are additional door-to door charges. All documents must be in Destination Agents hands 7 days before arrival of vessel.


-Customs clearance times
 

Air ShipmentsSurface Shipment (FCL)Surface Shipment (LCL)
2-3 working days2-3 working days3-5 working days

Above times are estimates only and on the basis that all required documents are available and in order. Actual time for customs clearance may be subject to change. For more information please contact destination office.

 
Customs and quarantine procedures 
 
There is no quarantine required for used household goods and personal effects. Used household goods (owned and used for at least six months) and personal effects are generally duty-free provided that the customer has been abroad for at least twelve months, and the goods will not be sold for at least twelve months after import. Goods must be imported within two years from the change of residence of the customer.

Above times are estimates only and on the basis that all required documents are available and in order. Actual time for customs clearance may be subject to change.  For more information please contact RapidWorld.

Download South Africa Customs Information

Furniture Packaging Method