Can BAC Logistics act as the Importer on Record?

BAC Logistics cannot act as the Importer of Record, nor do we offer the use of our company name or importer registration for customs clearance purposes.

In accordance with general customs requirements, the entity reflected as the purchaser or consignee on the Commercial Invoice and supporting shipping documentation must be declared as the Importer of Record for the shipment.

The Importer of Record assumes responsibility for the accuracy and validity of all customs declarations, supporting documentation, duties, taxes, permits, and compliance requirements associated with the importation.

Accordingly, we require the organisation listed as the buyer on the Commercial Invoice to be declared as the importer for customs clearance purposes.

Process To Register as an Importer

Prospective importers are required to register with South African Revenue Service through the SARS eFiling platform in order to apply for customs Registration, Licensing and Accreditation (RLA).

The RLA system forms part of the New Customs Acts Programme (NCAP) and serves as the electronic platform for managing customs-related registrations and licensing applications under the provisions of the Customs and Excise Act, No. 64 of 1964. The platform has been developed to support a smoother transition into the Customs Control Act and Customs Duty Act of 2014.

To begin the process, applicants must access the SARS eFiling portal via SARS eFiling and either register for a new profile or log into an existing account.

Once logged into eFiling, the following steps should be completed:

• Link the organisation profile to the individual user profile, if this has not already been done.
• Assign the necessary RLA user rights and roles to authorised users within the organisation.
• Capture and complete the applicable RLA client application online.
• Submit the application electronically through the eFiling platform for processing by SARS.

For a detailed step-by-step explanation of the process, including screenshots and navigation guidance, applicants may refer to the SC-CF-42 Customs Trader Portal External Guide available from SARS. SARS also provides tutorial videos explaining how to access Customs Registration, Licensing and Accreditation services through eFiling.

Applicants are advised to monitor their SARS eFiling inbox regularly, as notifications, requests for additional information, and status updates regarding the application will be communicated electronically through the system.

In addition to the online application process, supporting documentation may also be uploaded electronically through the SARS Online Query System (SOQS). This facility allows traders to submit additional Registration, Licensing and Accreditation-related supporting documents directly to SARS when required.