Customs & Import Charges
Customs and import charges
Your order ships directly from South Korea, which means it crosses a border to reach you. South African customs (SARS) may charge import VAT and a customs duty on it, and the courier adds a small clearing fee. These are paid by you, the recipient, on delivery — they're set by SARS and the courier, not by Pare.
Why this happens
There's currently no free trade agreement between South Africa and South Korea, so skincare from South Korea is subject to South Africa's standard import duties. It's normal for anything imported from Korea — it isn't unique to us.
What you may be charged
- Import VAT — 15% on the value plus a 10% uplift plus any duty.
- Customs duty — typically around 7% for skincare; set by SARS.
- A courier clearing fee — set by the courier company.
When and how you pay
The courier contacts you and collects these charges before delivering your parcel. You pay them to release your order.
This applies even with free shipping
Free shipping covers delivery only. Any customs duties or import VAT are separate, set by SARS, and paid directly to the courier before your parcel is released — they remain the customer's responsibility.