The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has officially launched a new digital Traveller Declaration System (TDS), requiring all foreign-registered motor vehicles crossing South Africa’s borders to be declared and registered daily, including vehicles used by regular cross-border traders.The new system, introduced on 1 June 2026, forms part of SARS’ efforts to modernise border management and improve compliance with customs regulations.
According to SARS, the requirement is based on Section 15 of the Customs and Excise Act, 1964, which obliges travellers to declare all goods, including motor vehicles, when entering or leaving the country.Speaking during the launch, SARS Commissioner Dr Johnstone Makhubu highlighted the successful implementation of the system at several key ports of entry.
Nearly 39,000 foreign-registered motor vehicles were declared through the Travellers Management System (TMS) during the launch period.The declarations were processed at major border posts including Skilpadshek, Kopfontein, Maseru Bridge and Ficksburg Bridge.SARS emphasised that the online declaration process is free of charge and can be completed using a mobile application before arrival at the border.
The revenue service said the system is designed to reduce congestion, improve compliance and help travellers spend less time waiting at ports of entry.Authorities have encouraged all travellers and cross-border traders to familiarise themselves with the new requirements to ensure smooth movement across South Africa’s borders.
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