Laptops, mobile phones, cameras and tablets with built-in lithium batteries are accepted. Each device must not exceed 100 Wh (or two spare batteries up to 160 Wh each in carry-on). Batteries must be protected from short circuit. Max 2 spare batteries per shipment. Must be declared on the commercial invoice.
Personal-use quantities of prescription medicines accepted with a valid prescription or doctor's letter included in the shipment. Narcotic or psychotropic medications (e.g. codeine, tramadol) require an import permit from the receiving country's health authority. Quantities must not exceed a 3-month personal supply. Commercial quantities require import permits.
Commercially packaged, shelf-stable food products (dried goods, packaged snacks, instant noodles, coffee, tea, spices, sauces in sealed containers) are accepted. Fresh, frozen, chilled or perishable food is PROHIBITED. Meat, dairy, fruit and vegetables from Vietnam may face South African DAFF phytosanitary restrictions — we advise declaring clearly and checking with us first. Alcohol requires an import permit for South Africa above personal allowance.
Personal quantities of alcohol (up to 2 litres spirits or 9 litres wine) and tobacco (up to 200 cigarettes / 250g tobacco) may be accepted within personal-allowance limits. Commercial quantities require import licences and excise documentation. Products must be properly sealed and declared with value.
Commercially labelled cosmetics, skincare and personal care products are accepted for personal use in reasonable quantities. Products must be sealed, labelled in English or with English translation, and declared with accurate value. Aerosol-based products are prohibited.
New and used clothing is accepted. Commercial quantities (for resale) require a commercial invoice, accurate value declaration, and may attract import duties. All items must be declared; undervalued or misdeclared clothing shipments are subject to customs seizure.
Consumer electronics (phones, tablets, laptops, cameras, small appliances) are accepted with accurate value declaration. South Africa levies import VAT (15%) and customs duties on electronics above personal exemption thresholds. Devices must comply with ICASA type approval for use in South Africa. Items with lithium batteries — see battery rules above.
Jewellery with declared value up to USD 1,000 per shipment is accepted with accurate value on invoice. Items over USD 1,000 may require a gemological certificate or appraisal. Gold and silver bullion require additional export/import permits. Undeclared or undervalued jewellery is subject to seizure and penalties.
Dried herbs, spices and commercially packaged plant products may be accepted. Live plants, soil, fresh produce, seeds and unprocessed plant material are subject to South African DAFF phytosanitary inspection and require an import permit. We recommend contacting us before shipping any plant-based items.
Personal effects and used household goods are accepted when accompanying a relocation (with proof of residence change). Used goods sent commercially may face South African customs duties based on assessed value. Items must be clean and declared as used with realistic value.
Declared cash amounts within legal limits (up to USD 5,000 / ZAR 25,000) may be included with full customs declaration. Cheques, money orders, and bearer bonds must be declared and may require Reserve Bank authorisation from South Africa's SARB or State Bank of Vietnam approval.
