What is an Import/Export Code in South Africa?

An Import/Export Code is a customs registration number issued through SARS that allows a business to legally import goods into South Africa or export goods to international markets. Without this registration, customs clearance can be delayed or refused. SACORP assists with the full application process and required supporting documents.

Do I need a registered company before applying for an Import/Export Code?

Yes. In most cases, you must have a registered business entity, such as a Pty Ltd company, before applying for an Import/Export Code. SACORP can register your company and then proceed with the SARS and customs-related applications in the correct order.

How long does the Import/Export Code application take?

Processing times vary depending on SARS and customs requirements, but applications are typically completed within a few business days once all documents are submitted correctly. SACORP helps reduce delays by ensuring your application is accurate and complete from the start.

What documents are required for an import/export application?

Common requirements include company registration documents, director ID copies, proof of business address, SARS registration details, and banking information. Additional documents may be requested depending on the nature of the goods being traded.

Can a new business apply for an Import/Export Code?

Yes. A newly registered company can apply for an Import/Export Code as soon as it has the necessary registration documents and SARS records in place. Many SACORP clients complete company registration and import/export registration as part of a single startup package.

Do I need VAT registration to import goods?

Not every importer is required to be VAT registered immediately, but VAT registration is often beneficial for businesses that exceed the VAT threshold or regularly import commercial goods. SACORP can advise whether VAT registration is appropriate for your trading model.

What types of businesses use Import/Export Codes?

Import/Export Codes are used by wholesalers, retailers, manufacturers, e-commerce sellers, logistics companies, distributors, and businesses trading goods across borders. If your company buys products from overseas suppliers or sells products to foreign customers, you will generally need the appropriate customs registration.

Can SACORP help with both imports and exports?

Yes. SACORP provides support for businesses that import goods into South Africa, export goods to other countries, or do both. We assist with company formation, SARS registration, VAT registration, customs-related applications, and ongoing compliance requirements.

What happens if I import goods without the correct registration?

Importing goods without the proper customs registration can result in shipment delays, penalties, additional inspections, or the inability to clear goods through customs. Ensuring that your business is correctly registered before trading internationally helps avoid costly disruptions.

Does SACORP provide ongoing compliance support after registration?

Yes. Our support does not end once your Import/Export Code is approved. We can assist with annual returns, SARS compliance, VAT obligations, BEE support, and other regulatory requirements as your import or export business grows.

Import & Export Businesses

Expand Your Business Beyond South Africa with the Right Import & Export Compliance Importing goods into South Africa or exporting products to international markets requires more than just finding suppliers and customers — it requires the correct business registration, customs documentation, and regulatory approvals.

At SACORP, we help entrepreneurs, wholesalers, manufacturers, retailers, and growing businesses obtain the registrations needed to trade legally across borders.

Based in Melrose Arch, Johannesburg, our team provides end-to-end support for import and export businesses throughout South Africa. We assist with company registration, SARS tax registration, customs-related applications, and Import/Export Code registration through the relevant authorities. Whether you are starting a new trading business or expanding an existing company into international markets, we ensure your business is structured correctly from the beginning.

Our import and export compliance services include:

Pty Ltd company registration

SARS income tax registration

VAT registration for qualifying businesses

Import/Export Code applications

Customs and excise support documentation

CSD registration for government procurement opportunities

BEE certificate support

Ongoing compliance and annual return assistance

South Africa’s international trade environment can be complex, especially for first-time importers and exporters. Incorrect registrations or missing documentation can delay shipments, create customs issues, and increase costs. SACORP simplifies the process by guiding you through each requirement in plain language and handling the administrative work on your behalf.

Whether you plan to import electronics, clothing, machinery, automotive parts, food products, construction materials, or export locally manufactured goods to other African countries and global markets, SACORP provides the professional support needed to keep your business compliant and ready for growth.

Ready to start importing or exporting? Contact SACORP today for fast, professional assistance with company registration, SARS registration, and Import/Export Code applications anywhere in South Africa.

ILLUMINATED SIGNAGE: SHINE A LIGHT ON YOUR BRAND

Bright, bold, and impossible to ignore—our illuminated signage solutions are designed to get your brand noticed, day or night. Whether you’re lighting up a storefront, highlighting a logo, or guiding the way in low-light environments, we combine expert craftsmanship with advanced lighting technology to deliver striking results.

At Millennium Signs, we manufacture custom LED signage using energy-efficient, low-maintenance components built for long-term performance. From sleek halo-lit letters to fully illuminated lightboxes, every sign is tailored to suit your brand identity, environment, and budget. Want something even more eye-catching? We also offer bespoke neon effects and vibrant backlit solutions for that extra glow.

Built to your specifications, our illuminated signage options include:

✔ LED backlit channel letters
✔ Edge-lit acrylic panels
✔ Halo-lit 3D fabricated signs
✔ Full-face illuminated logos
✔ Custom lightbox signs
✔ Neon-style LED signs
✔ Digital display panels
✔ Outdoor-rated lighting systems

We’ll guide you through the options for lighting intensity, colour temperatures, casing materials and placement—ensuring your signage is not only seen, but remembered.

TYPES OF LED SIGNS WE OFFER

From soft ambient glows to bold, high-impact visuals, our range of LED signage solutions brings versatility and brilliance to any space. Whether you're illuminating a retail storefront, creating atmosphere in a hospitality setting, or boosting brand recognition outdoors—there’s an LED sign style to match your goals.

Our aluminium trays and acrylic lightboxes deliver even, diffused lighting—ideal for elegant restaurant interiors or bright, weather-resistant exterior displays. Looking to elevate your brand with 3D signage? We offer edge-lit, backlit, face-lit, and halo-lit options that transform logos and letters into illuminated centrepieces, full of depth and dimension.

For a retro feel with a modern twist, our faux neon LED signs bring the iconic look of glass neon in a lightweight, durable format—perfect for events, pop-ups, or vibrant indoor décor.

Popular LED Sign Types:

✔ Acrylic lightboxes and aluminium tray signs
✔ Edge-lit and backlit 3D signage
✔ Halo-lit and face-lit channel letters
✔ Faux neon LED signs
✔ Custom illuminated projecting signs
✔ Indoor and outdoor digital display panels

Whatever the message or mood, Millennium Signs helps you light it up with confidence.

YOUR GUIDE TO LED-ILLUMINATED 3D LETTERING

LED-powered 3D lettering is one of our most in-demand signage styles—and for good reason. It’s eye-catching, energy-efficient, and offers endless creative possibilities. Whether you're branding a corporate HQ, retail space, or restaurant frontage, illuminated letters instantly add dimension and prestige to your identity.

To help you choose the right finish for your brand, we’ve put together a quick cheat sheet of the most popular LED effects:

💡 Common Illumination Styles:

✔ Face-lit – Light shines through the front of the letter, creating bold, high-visibility signage. Ideal for retail, malls, and road-facing signs.

✔ Backlit (Halo-lit) – Light spills from behind the letters to create a glowing silhouette effect. Great for upscale, sophisticated branding.

✔ Edge-lit – A sleek glow radiates from the edges, giving your signage a clean, modern look.

✔ Combination-lit – Combine front and back illumination for maximum impact and standout visibility at any angle.

Each style can be customized with your preferred materials, colours, and mounting methods to suit your space—indoors or out.

Need help choosing the best look for your brand? Our team is ready to assist with expert guidance and samples on request.