An export code is issued by SARS Customs to a business exporting goods from South Africa, and must be declared on the customs paperwork for every shipment leaving the country.
What it means
Exports are generally zero-rated for VAT, but that treatment depends on the shipment being properly documented and declared under a valid export code - without it, the zero-rating can be disallowed.
Where it fits in
The export code sits alongside the import code as the two specific registrations built on a business's base customs code, covering outbound and inbound goods movement respectively.
Key rules
- Required to legally export goods from South Africa.
- Declared on customs paperwork for every export shipment.
- Correct use supports VAT zero-rating on qualifying exports.
- Distinct from, but built on, the business's base customs code.
