ASKHQ: IMPORTING GOODS

Q: How long does it take to clear imported products through customs? We want to buy some tack online and have it brought to South Africa.

A: Usually it takes 10 to 14 days for the imported items to clear through customs; however, this is subject to change and is incredibly variable. Sometimes items can clear in a matter of days, and other times it can take several weeks. It does also depend on which country you import the items from. As an aside, it is also worth working out how much import tax you will be asked to pay when the items arrive here. This can often be a large amount on top of what you have already paid to the company overseas. Just make sure that you don’t get hit with unexpected costs!