What makes technology logistics different.
ICASA type approval
Any device that transmits or receives radio frequencies in South Africa requires ICASA type approval before it can be imported and sold. Smartphones, routers, inverters, IoT devices — the list is long and the approval process is not fast.
High value, high theft risk
Electronics are among the highest-value cargo per kilogram — and among the highest-risk for theft in transit. Security handling, insured transit and chain-of-custody documentation are not optional.
Time-to-market pressure
A new product launch, a seasonal demand window, a competitor moving first — electronics logistics operates on tight market timing. A week's delay at the port can mean a missed launch.
Lithium battery restrictions
Lithium batteries — in devices, in packs, in EVs — are classified as dangerous goods. IATA restrictions on what can fly, how it must be packed and what documentation is required are strict. Non-compliance means rejection at the airline.
Logistics matched to how technology businesses operate.
ICASA type approval coordination
We identify which products require ICASA type approval and advise on the application process before goods are ordered. Products arriving without approval are held by SARS — we prevent that.
Secure handling and insured transit
High-value electronics handled through secure freight channels. Cargo insurance, tamper-evident sealing and GPS tracking on valuable consignments. Chain of custody documented from origin to delivery.
Air freight for launch-critical shipments
Product launches can't wait for a 30-day ocean transit. We manage air freight for time-critical tech imports — carrier selection, express customs clearance and same-day delivery from airport.
Lithium battery dangerous goods compliance
Devices with lithium batteries, standalone battery packs and EV batteries classified and documented correctly under IATA DGR Sections IA, IB and II. No airline rejections, no last-minute re-packing.
NRCS electrical compliance
Electrical and electronic products subject to NRCS compulsory specifications require letters of authority. We manage LOA applications for qualifying product categories before goods ship.
Ocean freight for volume orders
For large, non-urgent technology imports, ocean freight on our China and Europe trade lanes cuts cost significantly versus air. FCL for full container volumes, LCL for smaller replenishment orders.
The regulatory requirements we manage for tech importers.
Independent Communications Authority of South Africa. Type approval required for all radio frequency devices. Approval confirmed before goods ship — ICASA holds at the port are expensive and avoidable.
Electrical and electronic products subject to compulsory specifications require Letters of Authority. Product categories checked against NRCS schedules at order stage.
Lithium battery classification under IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations. Section IA, IB and II requirements applied per battery type, watt-hour rating and packaging configuration.
Electronics tariff classification under Chapters 84, 85 and 90. Anti-dumping duties on certain electronics categories. Correct classification verified before every entry.
ICASA holds are avoidable. We avoid them.
The most common reason tech products are held at the South African port of entry is ICASA non-compliance — type approval wasn't confirmed before import. We check ICASA requirements at order stage, not at customs. That's the difference between a smooth clearance and a hold that delays your launch.
Talk to us about your product rangeICASA checked at order stage
Type approval status confirmed before goods are ordered. If approval is required and not in place, we tell you before you commit to the purchase.
Lithium battery DG — no surprises
Battery-containing products classified and documented correctly before reaching the airline. No last-minute DG rejections that delay your shipment by days.
Secure handling for high-value cargo
Electronics don't travel in standard freight channels where possible. GPS tracking, tamper-evident sealing and cargo insurance on every high-value movement.
Services we use for technology importers.
Air Freight
Launch-critical shipments on the next available flight. IATA DG compliance for lithium battery cargo.
Customs Clearance
ICASA type approval coordination, NRCS letters of authority and correct electronics HS classification.
International Courier
Samples, prototypes and small high-value consignments — door-to-door with insured transit and full tracking.
Let's talk about your technology & electronics logistics.
Tell us about your product range and any existing ICASA approvals. We'll identify what's needed and build a compliant import plan.