The difference between National Transit and International Transit is knowing the difference between RIB (Removal In Bond) and RIT (Removal In Transit). The RIB and RIT codes form part of the old terminology still used extensively today; now replaced by Procedure Category Code B discussed in former blog posts.
Sound boring? Well just know these few pointers… moving goods in National or International Transit is:
- Moving goods from one Customs area to another Customs area within the Republic (National Transit)
- National Transit may include countries within the SACU (Southern African Customs Union) or BLNS (Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, Swaziland, and South Africa)
- Moving goods from a place off-loaded from an international mode of transport, through the Republic to a place of final exit from the Republic (International Transit), or on the same mode of transport (i.e. truck over border)
- These goods are not in free circulation, i.e. they are moved under Customs Control
- Do not require standard export formalities to be complied with
- Such moves terminate either upon clearance within the Republic (National Transit) or upon final exit from the Republic (International Transit)
- Carry a Tax Free Status (no duties and taxes are applicable). A licensed Bonded Carrier must carry such goods, covered by Bond
- May not be diverted while on-rout or while under Customs Control
Interestingly, Customs may, in terms of the Rules to the new Acts specify the routs which trucks must follow for National and International Transit of goods.
Liability for such goods will be an interesting discussion, but for another blog post.