Customs & International Trade (RLA)
Request Customs Trader Code (RLA)
Retrieve an existing 8-digit SARS Customs Client Number via SOQS or register a new Importer/Exporter license to release shipments held at South African ports.
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eFiling Navigation & Turnaround
SARS eFiling RLA Path & Turnaround Times
Code Lookup: Instant | New RLA License: 3–10 Business Days
eFiling Navigation Path: Log into eFiling → Organisations → Registration, Licensing and Accreditation (RLA) → New Application
Verified SARS Portal
Query Your SARS Customs Code Online
Access official SARS digital channels to look up or verify existing importer/exporter customs registration codes.
Customs Request Guide
How to Request or Register a Customs Trader Code
01
Access SOQS Customs Code Lookup or SARS eFiling RLA
To retrieve an existing code, open tools.sars.gov.za/sarsonlinequery/requestcustomscode. To register a new code, log into SARS eFiling and navigate to "Organisations > Registration, Licensing and Accreditation (RLA)".
02
Confirm Active RAV01 & Public Officer Profile
Before RLA allows you to start a new Importer/Exporter application (replacing old paper Form DA 185), your company’s Registered Representative / Public Officer must be active on RAV01.
03
Select Client Type (Importer, Exporter, or SADC/AfCFTA)
In the RLA wizard, select "New Application", choose Importer (4A1) and/or Exporter (4A2), and optionally tick SADC, SACU-EFTA, or EUR.1 Origin Trade Agreement annexures.
04
Upload Mandatory Customs Verification Documents
Upload CIPC CoR14.3 certificate, certified director IDs, bank confirmation letter (< 3 months old), municipal utility bill / lease for physical business premises, and a signed Board Resolution.
05
Receive Your 8-Digit SARS Customs Client Number
Once approved (3–10 business days), download your official SARS Customs Registration Letter containing your 8-digit Customs Code to give to your freight forwarder or clearing agent (DHL, FedEx, Ziegler, DSV).
Common Customs Delays
Why SARS Customs Rejects or Holds Importer Applications
Exceeding the 3-Shipment / R150,000 Casual Code Limit
Generic casual code 70707070 may only be used for up to 3 non-commercial consignments per calendar year valued under R150,000. Any 4th shipment is detained at customs until a permanent 8-digit code is issued.
Physical Address Mismatch Between RAV01, CIPC & Utility Bill
SARS Customs rejects RLA applications immediately if the physical trading address on your municipal bill or lease agreement differs from the address recorded on your SARS RAV01 profile.
Missing Telkom / Fixed-Line or Contact Verification
Legacy DA 185 rules required a fixed landline; under RLA, SARS verifies your registered mobile and email via OTP, and rejects applications where the Public Officer’s personal tax is non-compliant.
Non-Resident Importer Without a Registered Local Agent
Foreign entities importing into South Africa must appoint a South African resident financial representative on RLA before a customs code can be issued.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a SARS Customs Code (Customs Client Number)?
A SARS Customs Code is an 8-digit identification number issued under the Customs and Excise Act 91 of 1964 to companies or individuals importing or exporting commercial goods through South African seaports, airports, or land border posts.
How long does it take SARS to issue a Customs Importer/Exporter Code?
Looking up an existing Customs Code via SOQS takes 5 minutes. Registering a brand-new Importer or Exporter code on SARS eFiling RLA typically takes 3 to 10 business days if all FICA, RAV01, and address documents match.
Can I claim the 15% Import VAT charged by customs on my VAT201 return?
Yes! Provided your company is a registered VAT vendor and holds an active SARS Customs Code in its own name, the 15% Import VAT reflected on the SAD500 Bill of Entry and EDI Customs Release Notification is fully deductible as input tax on your VAT201 return.
What is the difference between a standard Exporter Code and SADC / EUR.1 registration?
A standard Exporter Code allows you to clear goods out of South Africa. Adding SADC, AfCFTA, or EUR.1 origin registration on RLA allows your foreign buyers to import South African-origin goods at 0% or reduced customs duty.
Can My Accountant register our company for an Importer and Exporter Code?
Yes! We offer a fixed-fee SARS Import/Export License package where we update your RAV01 profile, compile the Board Resolution, submit the eFiling RLA application, and deliver your official 8-digit Customs Code.
Related SARS Customs Guides & Packages
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