David Wang
-Updated on June 26, 2026
Why is my South African Post Office parcel held at customs?
A "held at customs" status means the South African Revenue Service (SARS) is assessing your item, not that it is lost. South Africa applies customs duty plus 15% VAT on the landed value of imported consignments, and as of 1 September 2024 SARS applies a flat rate plus VAT on low-value e-commerce parcels. The item resumes movement once it is cleared and any charges are paid.
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