Durban is Southern Africa''s largest vehicle port and the transit gateway for Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Malawi and Mozambique. It is also the most permit-driven market we ship to.
## The permit reality
Used passenger cars imported for road use in South Africa require an **ITAC import permit**, and those permits are heavily restricted — normally issued to returning residents, immigrants, vintage vehicles, race cars, and specially adapted vehicles. If you are buying for resale in South Africa itself, plan around new units or confirm your permit category first.
**In transit is different.** Vehicles moving under bond through Durban to Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Malawi or the DRC do not need an ITAC permit for South Africa. This is how most of our Durban volume actually moves.
## Taxes for home-use entry
- Import Duty 25% - Ad valorem excise on higher-value vehicles - VAT 15% on (CIF + duty)
## Compliance
- Right-hand drive only - Euro IV emissions and above - NRCS **Letter of Authority** and SABS homologation - Roadworthy test after arrival
## Documents
ITAC Import Permit (for home use), Commercial Invoice, Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin, NRCS Letter of Authority, and the SAD500 entry filed by your clearing agent.
## Shipping
Container and RoRo, usually transhipped via Singapore or Port Louis. Budget 32–42 days sailing. Durban congestion has been a real factor in recent years — build 10–15 days of buffer into any delivery promise you make to an end customer.
## Practical advice
For SADC buyers, ship to Durban under bond and clear in your own country — the paperwork is simpler and you avoid South African duty entirely. Tell us the final destination, not just the port, and we will structure the Bill of Lading accordingly.