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Expert guidance on complex Customs matters from specialists who deal with them every day

Most importers face a Customs issue at some point

Importing can run smoothly for years. Then a shipment is stopped for inspection, goods are reclassified or an unexpected duty demand arrives. Suddenly, you are dealing with delays, held cargo and questions you may not know how to answer.

When that happens, you need a clear answer from someone who deals with these issues every day, not guesswork. Our consulting service gives you specialist support for the specific Customs problem in front of you, whether it is holding up your cargo now or something you want to resolve before it becomes a problem.

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The Customs problems we help solve

Customs declarations involve a great deal of technical detail, and a small misinterpretation can lead to a compliance issue, unnecessary costs or a missed saving.

We provide clear, practical guidance on issues including:

  • Reclassification of goods and how to respond when Customs disagrees with your tariff heading
  • Unexpected duty demands and the options available to you
  • Cargo held at the port because of a Customs query or declaration that needs clarification
  • Complex tariff, valuation and compliance questions where you need certainty before acting
  • Setting up the right Customs processes if you are new to importing

Whether you are dealing with an immediate roadblock or planning ahead to avoid one, we give you a clear answer and a practical way forward.

Why importers turn to us

Who we are

Clear guidance from experienced specialists

Practical advice from consultants who deal with complex Customs matters every day.

In conjunction with your clearing agent, not instead of them

We provide specialist support on the tariff, valuation and compliance issues that fall outside day-to-day clearing.

Over 30 years of hands-on experience

Established in 1992, resolving complex Customs matters for South African importers across a wide range of industries.

Frequently asked questions

CRS provides specialist advice on issues including:

  • Reclassification of goods
  • Unexpected duty demands
  • Cargo held at the port
  • Complex tariff classification questions
  • Customs valuation
  • Origin and preferential duty
  • Compliance questions
  • Setting up imports correctly from the outset
Yes. CRS can assess the Customs query, review the declaration and supporting information, and advise on the best way to respond.

Yes. Obtaining advice before importing can help confirm the likely tariff classification, duty rate and any relevant Customs requirements before you commit to the shipment.

A Tariff Determination may also be appropriate where formal certainty is needed.

The supplier’s tariff heading may be useful background information, but it does not automatically determine the correct South African classification.

South African imports must be classified according to the technical characteristics of the goods, and applicable tariff, legal notes and interpretation rules as applicable according to South Africa law.

Yes. CRS can assess the proposed heading against the applicable classification rules, product information, legal notes and relevant Customs guidance.

Different importers sometimes use different headings for identical or similar goods, particularly where the classification is open to interpretation.

However, every product ultimately has one correct tariff classification.

Although a clearing agent may prepare and submit Customs declarations on the importer’s behalf, the legal responsibility for ensuring that the goods are correctly declared ultimately rests with the importer.

Clearing agents provide an essential service, but complex tariff classification, valuation and compliance matters may require specialist Customs advice.

CRS works alongside the clearing agent rather than replacing them.

Stuck on a Customs issue, or want to get ahead of one? Let’s talk it through.

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