Join a Freight ForwardingAssociation in South Africa

Learn how to grow your freight forwarding business in South Africa with DF Alliance.

Start your Digital Freight Alliance membership

for free to enhance your business and capabilities. Access a network of established freight partners in India and across the world via our Members Directory- essential for navigating the complex regulatory landscape and enjoy Logistics Explorer our free real-time freight calculator. Quote your rates to thousands of customers at any time and get online bookings for FCL, LCL, Air, Road, Rail transport, and more.

DFA also offers exert guidance for understanding customs regulations and operational best practices through your personalised account and sales managers.

Join the Digital Freight Alliance (DFA) in four easy steps:

Choose Membership Tier: Select either Standard or Premium based on your needs, each offering benefits like digital tools and trade finance.
Application: Complete the online form on the DFA website, providing basic business details and your preferred membership.
Submit KYC: Fill out a Know Your Customer form to verify your business identity.
Payment and Activation: Make any necessary payments and activate your membership to begin using DFA resources.

Each step is streamlined to quickly integrate your business into DFA’s global network.

Become a Member today

How to Become a Freight Forwarder in South Africa

Getting a freight forwarder license can be complex. Generally, the process includes the following 5 steps:

Research Legal Requirements: Investigate the specific regulations and requirements for freight forwarders in South Africa
Meet Licensing Criteria: Fulfill any necessary conditions for obtaining a license, which may include industry experience, passing relevant exams, and securing appropriate insurance coverage.
Submit Application: Apply for a license through the appropriate government department, providing all required documents and paying any associated fees.
Processing Time: Allow time for your application to be processed and reviewed, which can vary widely from a few weeks to several months depending on the location and the backlog of applications.
License Issuance: Once approved, you will receive a license to operate as a freight forwarder, enabling you to offer services like customs clearance, cargo transportation, and warehousing for international freight.

Freight Forwarding Business and Tax Registration in South Africa

Begin your venture by officially registering your business entity in South Africa. This registration process involves obtaining a unique company identification number, which you will use in all official documents and transactions. Additionally, register with the relevant tax authorities to enable you to conduct business within the legal frameworks of South Africa.

Join the Digital Freight Alliance

Making sure that you have the right insurance coverage is essential for protecting your business from potential risks associated with freight forwarding, such as cargo loss or damage, and liability claims. Ensure that your business is covered with comprehensive insurance policies tailored to the logistics sector - you can discuss insurance with our experts when you Join the Digital Freight Alliance.

Become a Member today