Sending parcels, important documents, or excess luggage across borders requires more than just a courier — it calls for trusted providers and smart planning. We understand how important it is to have a reliable service you can count on to deliver your items on time, securely, and with care. That’s why we turned to our Facebook community for real-world recommendations and shared experiences.
In this guide, you’ll find a list of courier companies for small packages and documents, as well as services that can handle excess baggage and larger shipments. You’ll also get practical tips on customs, import rules, and why it’s never a good idea to pack something in your luggage for someone else. Stay informed, stay secure, and make every shipment stress-free.
When sending a package to South Africa, SARS might demand Customs or Excise duties on the items. You can find detailed information on the SARS website. The same goes for Germany and the Zoll amt.
In the Customs (Zoll) documents, It is important that you list all the items in your package, including what they are worth and their country of origin. It is advisable to have the Customs forms filled out in triplicate and add them all to the envelope on your package
What can I bring into South Africa Heading home with a suitcase full of German goodies? We get it — who wouldn’t want to share some of their favourite snacks and products! While many personal items are perfectly fine to bring into South Africa, there are specific restrictions and prohibited goods you should be aware of before packing. To avoid surprises at customs, take a moment to review the official guidelines:Detailed customs requirements for entering and
What can I bring into Germany It is very tempting to bring some South African goodies with you when you travel to Germany, and while most items are allowed, there are Restrictions. There is also a limit on duty-free allowances. Zollamt Germany’s customs authority is known as the Zollamt, and they take their job seriously. The information below is especially relevant to travellers coming from South Africa (or any country outside the Schengen Area). If you’re
In my personal experience, DHL Express shipping is more expensive, but it’s also the most reliable option for sending documents or packages to South Africa. Always make sure you get a tracking number.
DHL offers both Standard and Express shipping services.
Please note that SARS may charge Customs or Excise duties on the items you send. For more details, visit the SARS website.
The simplest and wisest step? Reach out to your airline well before you set foot in the airport chaos. Ask them about their rules for excess luggage—don’t wait until you’re juggling bags at check-in, or you’ll likely pay a pretty penny more. Most airlines have a strict weight limit for extra baggage. Should your package tip the scales beyond that, it might need to travel as air freight instead. The best move is to call your airline directly and get the full story—better safe (and budget-friendly) than sorry. Here is information about the excess luggage from Lufthansa.
When your luggage grows too heavy or your packages too grand, these companies are your go-to allies for smooth, hassle-free handling
Looking to compare prices of shipping and postal services? Look no further than the options available with Jumingo and Packlink.com!
These platforms offer easy-to-use comparison tools, allowing you to quickly and easily see how different shipping options stack up against each other in terms of pricing, delivery times, and more.
We all know that sending a package between South Africa and Germany can be expensive, which makes it tempting to ask if someone flying between the two countries can take a package or documents along for you. While this can sometimes be a convenient option, it also comes with significant risks.
If you decide to transport a package for someone else, be extremely cautious. Only do so if you personally know and trust the sender—and even then, follow these important precautions. The last thing you want is to be unknowingly used to smuggle drugs or prohibited items hidden in a package.
If you accept the responsibility of packing items in your luggage on behalf of someone else, keep the following in mind:
If you are looking for shipping and relocation companies, see our page of recommended service providers
Shipping and Relocation Companies Relocating across continents is no small feat — it takes planning, patience, and a few strong cups of coffee. From finding a reliable shipping company to choosing full-service relocation support, the decisions can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve gathered real recommendations from the people who know best: our South Africans in Germany community. On this page, you’ll find a curated list of shipping companies to help move your belongings and relocation
Moving to a new country can be both exciting and overwhelming at the same time. The thought of starting a new chapter in your life can bring a sense of thrill, while the idea of going through the process of moving can be daunting. Countless things need to be taken into consideration, and it can be tough to know where to start. Where will you find a suitable place to live? Should you buy or
Legalising Documents When living, working, or studying in Germany, you may need to present official documents that are legally recognised by German authorities. Depending on your purpose, this could involve having documents authenticated, certified, or presented as certified copies. Document Authentication South Africa and Germany are both members of the Hague Apostille Convention. This simplifies the process of legalising documents for use between the two countries. If you need to authenticate a South African document
As an ex-pat, it is essential to keep in touch with family and friends from back home. We yearn for news and contact with loved ones, and although we cannot always be physically together, we can at least try to keep in contact virtually.Here is a list of online events that you can do with your “hartsmense” either here in Germany, where it is easier to organise the delivery of items, or in any other country
We’ve got a taste of home waiting for you.
From South African concerts to casual meetups across Germany—check out what’s happening near you.
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