MOVING TO SOUTH AFRICA

Below is a list of the documents you will need when planning an international removal to South Africa:

• Original Passport (Of the individual moving/importing the goods) (including page with entry stamp)
• Original bill of lading (OBL) / air waybill (AWB) – We will take care of this if completing the entire international removal to South Africa for you.
• Detailed moving inventory – We will complete this if you want us to undertake a full packing service for your removal
• Permanent residence documents / temporary residence permit / work permit
• Affidavit
• Diplomatic clearance (applicable only to diplomatic relocations / diplomats moving)
• Certificate from Embassy signed by South African Department of Foreign Affairs (applicable only to diplomatic relocations / diplomats moving)
• Customs form DA 302 and P.1.160

We recommend providing these as soon as possible to reduce delays with your removal to South Africa. Late receipt of documentation can lead to missed shipments, additional charges and penalties at South African Customs. For your own protection, we will almost never ship your goods without the above in place.

• The owner of the goods must be present for Customs clearance.
• The owner of the goods must possess required documents and forward a copy to agent prior to import.
• The shipment of household items, new furniture, and precious metal objects are treated as a commercial import and subject to the payment of full duties.
• The following household goods may be imported duty free if meeting the following requirements:
• Works of art forming a part of a bona fide household shipment or are over 100 years old.
• The articles have been in the use and possession for more than 12 months and are not for sale or other disposal.
• Returning residents must have been abroad for a period of at least 6 consecutive months.
• Diplomats may import items duty free.
• Affidavit must state the reason for arrival in to South Africa.

• Below is a list of the documents you will need when planning an international removal to South Africa:
• Copy of death certificate
• Copy of will of deceased or certified relevant extract, or copy of Probate from the court if the deceased died intestate; English translation required.
• Moving inventory with lawyer’s declaration that the imported goods are the legatee’s rightful share of the estate
• South Africa Bureau of Standards Letter of Authority in Pretoria
• Declaration from the Legatee confirming permanent residency in South Africa and the right to share of the estate
• Import permit

• An moving inventory is required only if the copy of the deceased’s will or other document does not specifically detail the goods to be imported.
• Items of inheritance may be imported duty free if the legatee is permanently residing in South Africa.
• Duty is payable on inherited motor cars, motorcycles, and mopeds.
• Goods should not be shipped until Customs has authorized duty-free entry.

• Items are subject to the payment of duties.

If you are unsure about what you need, one of our international move managers is always willing to help. Just call us on +44 20 7097 5335 , or fill out an international removal enquiry, and we’ll ease you through the process.

If you’re moving to South Africa, it’s very likely you’ll have to exchange a large amount of currency. Many people waste thousands doing this through their bank as they think there is no alternative; but we partner with Global Reach who specialise in doing just this. Global Reach will offer all Gerson Moving Services customers preferential rates when exchanging currency and guarantee to beat other rates you’re receiving. Ask one of our move managers about this, to find out more click here or give us a call: +44 20 7097 5335 .

We always advise taking out an insurance policy with us on every move. Although we like to think we’re the best in the industry, the odd accident can occasionally happen. For added peace of mind, make sure to speak to one of our move managers about this.

If you have already contracted us for your international removal to South Africa, then you can download the insurance form and email the completed form back to your international relocation manager.