Leading freight forwarding
company in South Africa

Best in industry knowledge & expertise. Fastest response times. Competitive in price and service.

Global Freight Logistics Specialists

Inter-Sped are the leaders in the transport and logistics industry in Africa, providing unrivalled skills in freight forwarding, customs brokering and warehousing. With offices located in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban, and partners based around the world, our dedicated team offer each and every client personalised service across a range of freight logistics areas

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Founded in 1985, our shareholders and directors hold experience in freight forwarding that spans over three decades. All our shareholders and directors play an integral role in day to day operations, taking us from merely knowing the business to truly living the brand.

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1. Customer Centric
a. The freight company in South Africa that see’s customer service and communication as a KPI.

2. Industry Experts
a. 35+ Years experience in the freight forwarding and customs brokering industry places us ahead of the rest.

3. Peace of Mind
a. Financially sound freight forwarders with an innovation mindset. Secure, and easily able to pivot for innovation or necessity.

4. Quality Supply Chain
a. Our network of partners and suppliers across the world ensure less risk and more savings on time and cost.

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WHO WE ARE

OUR HISTORY

WHY INTER-SPED?

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Our Freight Forwarding Services

Our Footprint

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Customer Appreciation

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Years of service excellence

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Shipments Delivered

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KG’s moved

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Countries serviced

Our Process

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Latest News

Navigating Customs and Regulations: A Guide to Smooth Air Freight Operations in South Africa

Soaring Beyond Borders: Mastering Air Freight Operations in South Africa

In an age where the world has become a sprawling marketplace, the wings of air freight have transformed global trade. From electronics to exotic fruits, products journey across borders, connecting businesses to opportunities beyond their horizons.

At the heart of this transformative journey lies South Africa – a nation rich in history, culture, and a tapestry of customs procedures and regulations that can challenge even the most seasoned entrepreneurs. In this guide, we uncover the secrets to navigating customs complexities and soaring toward seamless operations.

The Importance of Understanding Customs Procedures

When it comes to air freight in South Africa, understanding the customs procedures is crucial. Customs clearance is a mandatory step that ensures the smooth flow of goods through the border, preventing delays and ensuring compliance with regulations. Lack of familiarity with these procedures can lead to unexpected bottlenecks and potential financial losses.

Tip 1: Partner with an Experienced Freight Forwarder

Collaborating with an experienced freight forwarder can significantly ease the process of navigating customs procedures. These professionals have in-depth knowledge of the local regulations and can guide businesses through the intricate steps of customs clearance.

Tip 2: Classify Your Goods Correctly

Properly classifying your goods is essential for determining the applicable duties, taxes, and regulations. South Africa employs the Harmonised System (HS) codes for goods classification, which aligns with international standards. Accurate classification can prevent costly errors and facilitate the customs clearance process.

Compliance with Documentation Requirements

Documentation is the backbone of any air freight operation, serving as a critical link between the shipper, freight forwarder, and customs authorities. In South Africa, adherence to documentation requirements is non-negotiable for ensuring successful air freight operations.

Tip 1: Complete and Accurate Paperwork

Incomplete or inaccurate documentation can lead to delays and potential fines. Ensure that all required paperwork, including the bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, and certificates of origin, are accurately completed and submitted.

Tip 2: Stay Abreast of Regulatory Changes

Customs regulations are subject to change, and it’s imperative to stay updated with the latest developments. Subscribing to industry newsletters, following official government sources, and maintaining a relationship with local customs authorities can help you remain informed about any regulatory shifts.

Dealing with Duties and Taxes

Duties and taxes are an integral part of international trade, contributing to a country’s revenue and protecting domestic industries. Navigating the landscape of duties and taxes is essential for cost-effective air freight operations.

Tip 1: Understand Tariff Structures

South Africa employs a complex tariff structure based on HS codes, which determine the duties applicable to specific goods. Familiarize yourself with these codes and their associated rates to accurately calculate the potential costs of importing or exporting.

Tip 2: Explore Duty Relief Options

South Africa offers various duty relief options, such as rebates, refunds, and drawbacks, that can help reduce the financial burden on businesses. Investigate these options to maximise cost savings while ensuring compliance.

Managing Regulatory Compliance

South Africa has stringent regulations aimed at safeguarding public health, security, and the environment. Compliance with these regulations is not only legally mandated but also reflects a commitment to ethical and responsible business practices.

Tip 1: Adhere to Health and Safety Regulations

Certain goods, such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and perishable items, are subject to specific health and safety regulations. Ensure that your shipments comply with these guidelines to prevent delays and ensure the safety of your products.

Tip 2: Embrace Environmental Responsibility

Environmental regulations, including restrictions on hazardous materials and waste, must be strictly adhered to. Failing to comply not only leads to penalties but also harms the environment. Work closely with your freight forwarder to ensure proper handling and disposal of regulated materials.

Embracing Technology for Efficiency

In an era driven by technological advancements, leveraging digital solutions can significantly enhance the efficiency of air freight operations in South Africa.

Tip 1: Utilise Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)

EDI allows for the seamless exchange of information between various stakeholders, reducing manual errors and expediting the customs clearance process. Implementing an EDI system can streamline communication with customs authorities and improve overall efficiency.

Tip 2: Invest in Track and Trace Systems

Real-time tracking of shipments provides transparency and visibility into the movement of goods. Investing in a robust track and trace system enables proactive management of potential delays and enhances customer satisfaction.

Smooth air freight operations in South Africa require a comprehensive understanding of customs procedures, compliance with documentation requirements, and diligent management of duties, taxes, and regulations. By partnering with an experienced freight forwarder like Inter-sped, businesses can navigate the complex landscape with confidence.

Alert / Reminder – Updating registration and License details with SARS – 22/09/2023

Dear Valued Customer

 

Quick reminder – If you are a South African Importer or exporter of goods within South Africa you will need to update your SARS

Registration.

 

This includes linking the logistic service providers & Freight forwarders you nominate for your customs clearances to your SARS profile.

 

Failure to update your registration on the SARS portal could result in you being removed from the SARS registration in which case you would not be able to process any further trade until your profile is updated.

 

You are required to process your updates and registration on your SARS E-filing portal, and

in this regard, it is your responsibility as the customers to process your updates.

 

You are welcome to contact your Inter-Sped representative if you require any assistance.

 

SARS has published a guideline on how to complete the process.

 

Please go to https://www.sars.gov.za/customs-and-excise/registration-licensing-and-accreditation/

 

Click on the e-Filing logo on https://www.sars.gov.za/

 

Download document here – Download

 

Best Regards

JJ & The Inter-Sped Team

Exploring the Advantages of Air Freight Services for South African and International Businesses

Navigating Success: Air Freight Services’ Crucial Role

In the dynamic landscape of global commerce, the journey from production to consumer has transformed into a high-speed race. To keep pace, businesses today require transportation solutions that are not only efficient but also reliable. Amid the array of options, air freight services have emerged as a pivotal player, redefining the way South African and international businesses operate.

This article takes a deep dive into the tailored advantages of air freight services and their potential to catalyse business growth. From accelerated delivery times to the transportation of time-sensitive goods, we’ll explore the strategic benefits that air freight offers.

  1. Accelerated Delivery: The Need for Speed

In an era where time is the most precious resource, air freight services excel in their ability to deliver products swiftly. Whether it’s cutting-edge electronics, perishable produce, or critical documents, air freight ensures that shipments arrive within hours or days rather than weeks. This speed advantage is particularly indispensable for businesses dealing with time-sensitive products or sectors that demand precise inventory management.

For South African enterprises, air freight bridges the geographical gap, enabling them to effortlessly engage with international markets and customers.

  1. Boundless Connectivity: The World at Your Doorstep

The expansive reach of air freight services transcends geographical constraints. With an intricate web of airports and airlines connecting cities worldwide, businesses in South Africa can effortlessly tap into global markets. This enhanced connectivity paves the way for businesses to expand their customer base, establish cross-border partnerships, and seamlessly integrate into global trade networks. Even small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can now leverage air freight to compete on a global scale, levelling the playing field against industry giants.

  1. Strategic Cost-Efficiency

Though air freight may carry a reputation for higher costs compared to modes like sea freight, its cost-effectiveness shines under specific circumstances. For lightweight, high-value, and time-sensitive goods, air freight can prove more economical over the long haul. Expedited delivery translates to reduced warehousing and inventory carrying costs. Furthermore, the minimised lead times enhance cash flow by accelerating product penetration into markets, leading to quicker sales and revenue generation.

  1. Leaner Inventory, Fatter Margins

The carrying costs of inventory can significantly impact a company’s profitability. Storage expenses, insurance premiums, and the risk of product obsolescence all contribute to these costs. By drastically reducing transit times, air freight mitigates these challenges, enabling businesses to maintain leaner inventory levels without compromising customer satisfaction. This optimisation leads to streamlined operations and improved margins.

  1. Time-Sensitive Triumphs

Certain industries, like healthcare and fresh produce, contend with the transportation of time-sensitive and perishable goods. Here, air freight’s agility comes to the fore, facilitating swift deliveries while maintaining the integrity of delicate cargo through temperature-controlled environments.

For South African businesses exporting perishables or medical supplies, air freight is a lifeline that ensures their products reach global markets in peak condition.

Elevating Possibilities with Inter-sped

In an era where velocity, efficiency, and global interconnection reign supreme, air freight services have transformed into an essential component for businesses. The manifold benefits – from swift deliveries to global access – have the potential to reshape South African and international business landscapes.

Through strategic partnerships with industry leaders like Inter-sped, businesses can harness the full might of air freight services and position themselves for expansion, not just across borders but also beyond horizons.

As the realm of air freight continues to expand, partnering with a reliable logistics provider becomes paramount. Enter Inter-sped – a trailblazer in the industry with a proven track record.

Drawing from extensive expertise, Inter-sped crafts tailor-made air freight solutions that cater to the unique needs of South African businesses. With a comprehensive network, efficient handling practices, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, Inter-sped is the key to unlocking the true potential of air freight services.

Inter-sped’s adept professionals comprehend the intricate nuances of air freight, from customs intricacies to optimal routing. Collaborating with Inter-sped allows businesses to streamline their supply chains, minimise transit times, and guarantee that their cargo arrives at its destination in optimal condition.

Whether it’s facilitating exports to distant markets or handling imports to South Africa, Inter-sped’s holistic air freight services can redefine a business’s operations and growth trajectory.

How can we help you?

Get in touch with South Africa’s leading freight forwarding company today.

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