Before 2020, many of us we scared to buy things online, especially from other countries. But now buying clothes from Shein feels like the norm.
Although it’s a good thing, but its creating more competition for local shops, and the government has noticed that. That’s why I am writing this article about the Shein & Temu import tax since it has been increased to up to 45%.
Import taxes have become much more expensive, especially for those of us who started shopping online because of lower prices. You may be shocked to discover that a R500 order can suddenly cost R800 or more after customs charges are applied.
This guide explains everything you need to know about:
So you will have a good idea of what to import and what not to import, since the price might be the same as the local or even more.
Shein & Temu Import Tax Calculator (South Africa)
This calculator helps you estimate how much import tax and VAT you may pay before your order is delivered. It’s built for South African online shoppers and uses SARS import duty rates.
How to Use (Quick Guide)
- Enter the item value in rand (R)
If multiple items are in the same category, you can add their total value together. - Select the item category
Different categories are taxed at different rates. - Add more items if needed
Use this if your order includes items from different categories. - Toggle VAT on or off
- Green = VAT included
- Red = duty only
What This Shows
This is an estimate, not a SARS invoice. Use it to avoid surprises and plan your order better before checkout.
Why Temu & Shein Orders Are Taxed in South Africa
When you order from Temu or Shein, your items usually ship from China or overseas warehouses. Because of this, your parcel must pass through South African customs, where SARS (South African Revenue Service) checks it.
SARS charges tax for three main reasons:
- To protect local businesses
- To collect VAT on imported goods
- To ensure fairness between local and overseas sellers
What Taxes Apply to Temu & Shein Orders?
When you order from Temu or Shein, there are two tax to know about:
- Customs Duty
is a tax you pay to the government when you buy things from another country.
- Clothes: very high duty
- Household goods: medium duty
- Electronics: low duty
- VAT (15%)
VAT (value added tax) is a tax the government charges on most goods you buy.
When you buy from Shein or Temu, customs duty and VAT are charged together. First, SARS calculates the customs duty based on the value of your item and its category (like clothes, electronics, or household goods). Then, VAT is added on top, which is 15% of the item price plus the customs duty
What Changed in Import Tax Rules
Before 2024, cheap imports had a special loophole.
That loophole is now closed.
This means Temu Import Tax and Shein Import Tax are now calculated in the same way as large commercial imports.
How to Calculate Shein & Temu Import Tax
Calculating Shein & Temu import tax in South Africa is not difficult once you understand the steps SARS uses. The final amount depends on what you buy, how much it costs, and which category it falls under.
Here is a table listing the Average Duty Rates for common categories. Based on SARS guidelines.
Category | Duty Rate | |
|---|---|---|
 | Electronics (Laptops/Cameras) | 0% |
 | Clothing & Textiles | 45% |
 | Shoes/Footwear | 30% |
 | Smartphones (under R2,500) | 0% |
 | Smartphones (over R2,500 | 9% |
 | General Items | 20% |
Now that we have the Rates for each category, we can use them to calculate the import tax for your items.
- Take the item price from Shein or Temu
- Add 10% (SARS import value adjustment)
- Add customs duty based on item type
- Clothing: 45%
- Shoes: 30%
- General items: 20%
- Electronics: 0%
- Add 15% VAT on the total
In short: start with the price, add duty first, then add VAT. Clothing gets hit the hardest, while electronics and general items usually cost much less in import tax.
Or use the button below for a calculator
Why Were These Taxes Introduced?
South African clothing retailers complained that Shein, Temu, and similar platforms had an unfair advantage, bypassing customs and VAT by under-declaring or shipping through special channels.
To protect local businesses and ensure fair taxation, SARS enforced the 45% duty rate on all clothing imports, regardless of value.
That’s why now, whether you order one dress or a full haul, you’ll likely receive a customs invoice or an SMS from the courier asking for payment before delivery.
Is It Still Worth Buying from Shein or Temu?
Yes, Shein and Temu are still cheaper than many local fashion stores, especially if you buy multiple items. You just need to calculate the total landed cost upfront so you don’t get caught off guard. Also, temu usually gives free products
This is why our calculator can be your best friend. Use it before you buy, and decide whether the deal is still worth it.
How to Reduce Shein & Temu Import Tax
FAQs
Yes, on Shein import tax is now included at checkout.
No, on Temu Import tax is charged when the parcel arrives.
Only slightly. Tax is based on the declared value, not how good the deal feels. Huge discounts don’t cancel out high clothing duty.
Your Temu or Shein parcel will be held by customs or the courier and will not be delivered until the tax is paid.
Usually 7–14 days, depending on the courier. After that, the parcel may be returned to the seller or destroyed, and storage fees can apply.
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