ITAC registration in South Africa

What is ITAC registration?

ITAC registration is the process of getting your business listed with the International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa as an importer, an exporter, or both. ITAC administers South Africa's trade rules, including import and export control. Without this registration, your business is not permitted to trade goods across the border for commercial purposes.

Who must register with ITAC?

Any South African company, close corporation, sole proprietor or trust that intends to import goods into South Africa or export goods from South Africa for business purposes. It applies whether you bring in one container a year or trade every week.

Is ITAC registration the same as a SARS customs code?

No. They work together. SARS issues a customs client number (often called an importer's or exporter's code), which is what customs uses to clear your goods. ITAC registration is the trade authorisation side. Most businesses need both, and we tell you which of the two you still need when we review your application.

Do I also need an import or export permit?

Only for controlled goods. Registration lets you trade; a permit is an extra approval required for specific goods, such as used or second-hand items, scrap metal and waste, certain machinery and vehicles, and some agricultural and chemical products. If your goods are controlled, we will tell you and quote for the permit separately.

How long does ITAC registration take?

ITAC controls the turnaround, not us. The biggest delay is almost always incomplete documents. We check your file before it goes in so it is not sent back, and we follow up with ITAC and update you by email until the registration is issued.

What does it cost?

Dynamic Legal charges one fixed professional fee of R18 500 for an ITAC registration. Any fees payable to ITAC or SARS are separate and are explained to you before we start.

What documents do you need?

Every file is slightly different, but in most cases ITAC wants to see the following. We confirm your exact list after you apply.

• Company registration documents (CIPC) or ID if you trade as an individual
• Certified copies of the directors' or members' IDs
• Proof of the business address
• SARS tax reference details and, if you have one, your customs client number
• Business bank account confirmation letter
• A short description of the goods you plan to import or export

The process, step by step

1. 1. You apply online. Fill in the short form on this site. Nothing is payable at that point.
2. 2. We review and quote. We confirm that you qualify, tell you which documents to send, and confirm the fixed fee of R18 500.
3. 3. We prepare the forms. We complete the ITAC application and send it to you to sign.
4. 4. We lodge and follow up. We submit to ITAC, answer any queries they raise, and email you the outcome.