Online shopping from global stores like Shein and Temu has become popular in South Africa. Affordable clothes, trendy styles, and free shipping make it hard to resist. But South Africans are often shocked by the extra charges they have to pay when their parcel arrives. If you’ve ever wondered how much you’ll pay for buying clothes from Temu or Shein, this guide is for you.
I will explain exactly how the Shein & Temu import tax works in South Africa, and we’ve built a free Shein Import Tax Calculator and Temu Import Tax Calculator to help you estimate your total cost before you buy.
What Is Shein & Temu Import Tax in South Africa?
As of September 2024, the South African government introduced strict import tax laws on all clothing items purchased from international platforms like Shein and Temu.
If you are importing clothing, whether it’s for personal use, resale, or as a gift, expect the following taxes:
- ✅ Customs Duty: 40% to 45%
- ✅ VAT: 15.5%
- ❌ No more “low-value exemption” for packages under R500
These taxes apply even if your package has free shipping, or if the items are on sale. Customs looks at the declared value of the goods, and they may revalue the package if they suspect under-declaring.
How Much Tax Will I Pay on Shein or Temu Orders?
Let’s break down the formula used to calculate the Shein & Temu import tax for clothing:
- Customs Duty = Item Price × Duty of between 40% to 45%
- VAT = (Item Price + Customs Duty) × 15.5%
- Total Landed Cost = Item Price + Duty + VAT
✅ Example (R500 Clothing Order):
- Customs Duty: R500 × 45% = R225
- VAT: (R500 + R225) × 15.5% = R112.38
- Total Cost: R500 + R225 + R112.38 = R837.38
So a “R500” order from Shein could actually cost you R837.38 once it lands in South Africa.
Shein & Temu Import Tax Calculator (For Clothing)
To save you from doing the math, we’ve created a quick and easy Shain Import Tax Calculator and Temu Import Tax Calculator that works for clothing items only.
Just enter your item’s price below to see the total estimated cost including taxes:
🇿🇦 Shein & Temu Clothing Import Calculator
📌 This calculator assumes the duty is fixed at 45% and VAT is 15.5%. We’ll keep it updated if regulations change. Its not the exact amount you will pay, but it shouldn’t be more than this amount.
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.
Import Tax On Shain & Temu FAQ
No. Prices shown on Shein or Temu do not include South African VAT or customs duty. That why you are required to pay once shipped
Gifts are still taxed. Discounted or sale items are taxed on their declared value.
You can, but the parcel will be held by customs or returned. Some couriers also charge storage fees
You’ll usually get an SMS, email, or app notification from the courier (e.g., Aramex, Fastway, Buffalo, DPD) with instructions and payment links
No. Prices shown on Shein or Temu do not include South African VAT or customs duty. That why you are required to pay once shipped
