[vc_row full_width=”stretch_row” css=”.vc_custom_1622216062363{margin-right: 0px !important;margin-left: 0px !important;padding-top: 200px !important;padding-bottom: 80px !important;background: #ffffff url(https://staging.gmsmove.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/South-Africa.jpg?id=16762) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}” el_class=”fix-row”][vc_column css=”.vc_custom_1620747382545{border-left-width: 10px !important;padding-left: 60px !important;border-left-color: #c6408e !important;border-left-style: solid !important;}”][vc_custom_heading text=”MOVING TO SOUTH AFRICA” font_container=”tag:h1|font_size:40px|text_align:left|color:%23322666″ use_theme_fonts=”yes” el_class=”text-shadow” css=”.vc_custom_1622112796011{margin-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_custom_heading text=”Afrique du Sud / Sudáfrica / África do Sul / Südafrika / Sydafrika” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:30px|text_align:left|color:%23c6408e|line_height:35px” use_theme_fonts=”yes” el_class=”text-shadow”][vc_empty_space]

[multistep multistep-649 first_step skip_save "/get-a-quote/"]

[vc_empty_space height=”20px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_section el_class=”quote_section” el_id=”Menu”][vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_custom_heading text=”A Guide to Relocating to South Africa” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1622112834006{padding-top: 30px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_custom_heading text=”Want to move to Cape Town? Considering moving to Johannesburg? Or thinking about an international removal to Durban. Here’s the moving advice you’ll need for any international removal to South Africa…” font_container=”tag:p|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1621850197679{padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”]To make navigation of this page easier for you, we have added the below clickable menu and return buttons throughout.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1629217902023{margin-bottom: -5px !important;}”]

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″ el_class=”quote_form” css=”.vc_custom_1622108183801{margin-top: 30px !important;padding-top: 30px !important;padding-right: 30px !important;padding-bottom: 30px !important;padding-left: 30px !important;background-color: #05aabc !important;}”][vc_custom_heading text=”USEFUL DOWNLOADS” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:center|color:%23ffffff” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1622108453853{padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1622216042389{padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”]Everything you need to help you plan your international move to South Africa.[/vc_column_text][vc_widget_sidebar sidebar_id=”sidebar-60ae5b3058531″ el_class=”main-sidebar”][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section][vc_section el_id=”section1″][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1621853212844{padding-top: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][vc_single_image image=”16356″ img_size=”full”][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_custom_heading text=”Moving Household Goods And Personal Effects To South Africa” use_theme_fonts=”yes” el_id=”section1″ css=”.vc_custom_1622112860790{padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_column_text]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.

[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Additional Removal Advice” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1621858878764{padding-top: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_column_text]

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.

[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Antiques, Artefacts, Carpets, Paintings” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1623330770089{padding-top: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_column_text]

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.

[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Wedding Trousseau / Gifts” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1623330829780{padding-top: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_column_text]

Below is a list of the documents you will need when planning an international removal to South Africa:
Import permit (if requested by Customs – applies to second-hand goods)
Invoice

Items are subject to the payment of duties.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1621853169345{padding-top: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][vc_single_image image=”16355″ img_size=”full”][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_section content_placement=”middle” el_id=”section3″ css=”.vc_custom_1595853245622{margin-top: 20px !important;}”][vc_row gap=”10″][vc_column el_class=”single_page_left”][vc_custom_heading text=”Useful Links” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:35px|text_align:left|line_height:45px” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1621861540287{padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_column_text]We always recommend speaking directly to the relevant embassy for the most accurate and up to date moving advice:

[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”40px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1621853169345{padding-top: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][vc_single_image image=”16355″ img_size=”full”][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Popular Destinations in South Africa” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1622112928214{padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_column_text]Global Moving Services is vastly experienced in international removals to cities all over the globe. Their long history and detailed knowledge of different countries makes them the perfect choice for your move. Here are some of the most popular destinations we are asked to move people to in South Africa:

Johannesburg (Guateng), Cape Town (western Cape), Durban (KwaZulu Natal), Germiston (Guateng), Pretoria (Guateng), Port Elizabeth (Eastern Cape), East London (Eastern Cape), Bloemfontein (Free State). Get a quote to one of these places[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1621853169345{padding-top: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][vc_single_image image=”16355″ img_size=”full”][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_section el_id=”section4″][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Need Help?” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1622105862150{padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_column_text]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.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Moving Your Money” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1621853673945{padding-top: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_column_text]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 Global 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 .[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Get Insurance” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1621853682778{padding-top: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_column_text]

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.

[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”40px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1621853153917{padding-top: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][vc_single_image image=”16356″ img_size=”full”][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row gap=”10″ el_id=”section5″][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Moving Your Car Or Motorcycle” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1621853912805{padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_column_text]Below is a list of the documents you will need when planning to move your vehicle to South Africa:

Customs form DA 304/A (only needed for automobiles / motorcycles)
Vehicle registration (only needed for automobiles / motorcycles)
Original bill of lading / air waybill (only needed for automobiles / motorcycles)
Import permit
Letter of authority (LOA) issued by the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) in Pretoria (must be submitted at the time of clearance)
Document showing that vehicle has been in the owner of the goods’ use and possessions abroad for more than 1 year before the importation of the vehicle (e.g., original purchase invoice, insurance certificate, etc.).

[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Additional Import Advice” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1621853922117{padding-top: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_column_text]

No left-hand drive motor vehicles can be imported if registered on or after January 1, 2000.
The transferee must be in possession of the import permit and letter of authority prior to the arrival of any motor vehicles, motorbikes, motor scooters, or motorcycles (anything motorized); delays related to the permit may result in demurrage charges.
The owner of the goods must be in the country at least 10 business days prior to arrival of an ocean vessel.
A faxed copy of the letter of authority and the import permit must be received by the agent to avoid a delay of Customs clearance.
Motorized vehicles should not be shipped until transferee has proven possession of all required documents to Customs and has received written permission for import.
Temporary residents must pay in cash.
Vehicles cannot be sold for at least 2 years after the date of importation.
The rate of value added tax (VAT) is assessed on the import value of the vehicle.
A fee of R1800.00 per vehicle, payable to the South Africa Bureau of Standards is required.
Incomplete or missing documents may result in the detainment or destruction of the shipment.
Returning residents must pay full duties and taxes.
Temporary residents must provide a Customs bond to cover full duties / taxes.
- Temporary residents do not need an import permit.
- A refund may be possible at the time of export; contact agent for details.
Foreign diplomats pay no duties or taxes, subject to provisions of the diplomatic clearance certificate, and proof of value.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1621853105971{padding-top: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][vc_single_image image=”16356″ img_size=”full”][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row gap=”10″ el_id=”section6″][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Relocating Your Pets to South Africa” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1622112990241{padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_column_text]These documents will be required when planning to relocate your pet to South Africa

Rabies vaccination certificate
Import permit
Veterinary health certificate

[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Additional Import Advice” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1621854114916{padding-top: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_column_text]

An import permit may be granted after the owner of the goods has made arrangements for the period of quarantine required for pets travelling from most, but not all countries; check with agent.
Call agent for restrictions on the import of live animals.

[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1621853100667{padding-top: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][vc_single_image image=”16356″ img_size=”full”][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_section content_placement=”middle” el_id=”section7″][vc_row gap=”10″][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Restricted & Dutiable/Taxable Items” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:35px|text_align:left|line_height:45px” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1621854339213{padding-bottom: 30px !important;}”][vc_column_text]Think very carefully before moving these items to South Africa. Items on this list will be taxed and/or require specific permission to import. In all cases they must be declared prior to you relocating to South Africa:

Local currency of over $10,000; gold coins, coin and stamp collections and unprocessed gold must be declared.
Endangered species of plants or wildlife, alive or dead, including parts and articles made from them (require CITES Permit)
Animal and animal byproducts
Medicines for personal use (note from physician and prescription required)
Cigarettes (200), cigars (20), tobacco (250g)
Perfume (50 ml)
Eau de toilette (250ml)
Goods for personal use
Wine / liquor / alcohol
Import permit and liquor removal certificate required.
Items subject to payment of duties.
Documentation requirements must be met prior to the arrival of the shipment.
Dangerous goods / firearms
Import permit and South African Police Firearm Registrar Certificate SAP 312 are required.
Items are subject to the payment of duties.

Note: Travelers may be asked to pay deposit on expensive items like laptops, which is refunded at re-exported. Returning residents are advised to register personal items (jewellery, watches, cameras, laptops, etc.) before leaving the country to avoid paying duty on these items upon re-importation.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1621853086786{padding-top: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][vc_single_image image=”16356″ img_size=”full”][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_section content_placement=”middle” el_id=”section8″][vc_row gap=”10″][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Prohibited/Banned Items” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:35px|text_align:left|line_height:45px” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1621854349037{padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_custom_heading text=”Do not move any of these items to South Africa:” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1622113045511{padding-top: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_column_text]

Narcotics
Plants and vegetable products
Walkie-talkies and radios (may include other prohibited communication devices)
Animal products (certain feathers, furs, skins, tusks, or animals identified under protected specifies regulations)
Pornographic books and magazines
Illegal drugs

The following additional items are prohibited in GMS Baggage/Courier Consignments:

Aerosols (all kinds, Hairspray, Deodorant etc)
Aftershaves / Perfumes / Fragrances
Airbags
Alcoholic Drinks or Bottles
Ammunition of any kind
Animals of any kind (Dead or Alive)
Any items containing Petrol (Liquid, Gas or Fumes)
Biological Samples
Car Batteries
Cash & Cards (Credit / Debit)
Chainsaws
Cheques (Bank)
Christmas Crackers
Counterfeit Currency
Dangerous Goods
Driving Licence
Drugs (Including Prescription)
Engines
Excrement / Filth
Fire Extinguishers
Fish (Dead or Live)
Foodstuffs (all kinds)
Hazardous Goods
Human Remains (including ashes)
Infectious Substances
Knives
Laptop Computers, Mobile/Smart Phones or Tablets
Lighters
Lottery Tickets
Nail Varnish / Nail Varnish Remover
Oils
Paints
Passports
Perishable Goods (All)
Plants / Seeds etc
Printer Toner
Seatbelt Tensioners and Steering Wheels
Stamps
Tobacco
Water
Weapons (all kinds, including replicas)
Windscreens

[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Disclaimer: Customs regulations can change at any time with or without notice. This information is provided as a guide only. While Global Moving Services has exercised reasonable care in publishing this information, Global Moving Services makes no representation, either expressed or implied, as to its accuracy or applicability.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Cookie	Duration	Description
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics	11 months	This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional	11 months	The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary	11 months	This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others	11 months	This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance	11 months	This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy	11 months	The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.

Top Destinations

Services

Moving Abroad

Contact us 24/7 for a quick quote!

Moving to South Africa

Services

Quick Links