Bonded storage, irrespective of whether you’re importing mining equipment, construction machinery, or agricultural goods, is a secure and cost-effective way to manage your shipments.
- What is bonded storage?
- How does bonded storage work?
- Benefits of bonded storage for abnormal load transport.
What is Bonded Storage?
Bonded storage is a secure facility where imported goods can be stored without immediately incurring customs duties and taxes. These goods remain in the warehouse under customs control until they are cleared for local consumption or re-exported. This is particularly advantageous for businesses managing large or complex shipments that require extended storage periods or flexible distribution strategies.
Tax-suspended storage plays a key role in international trade and logistics, particularly for businesses transporting high-value or oversized cargo, such as mining, construction, and agricultural equipment.
According to a recent FreightNews article, a rise in demand for modern logistics infrastructure means the South African market has seen a 31% increase in rentals for A-grade warehousing over the past four years. The growing need for sustainable, first-generation properties is being driven by both local and multinational companies across B2B, B2C, and third-party logistics (3PL) sectors.
How Does Bonded Storage Work?
Bonded storage facilities operate under the supervision of customs authorities and comply with strict regulations. When cargo arrives in South Africa, it can be placed in a bonded warehouse without paying import duties upfront allowing businesses to defer duty payments until the goods are sold or transported elsewhere.
Key regulations governing bonded storage in South Africa include:
- The Customs and Excise Act 91 of 1964 outlining how goods should be stored and processed.
- Compliance with SARS (South African Revenue Service) regulations.
- Secure tracking and reporting systems to ensure transparency.
The warehousing sector is being transformed by the development of industrial corridors, rail and road infrastructure projects, and the establishment of special economic zones (SEZs). With an estimated 240 SEZs across Africa, these zones are impacting the warehousing demand and investment opportunities in South Africa and neighboring regions such as Zimbabwe and Zambia.
Benefits of Bonded Storage for Abnormal Load Transport
For companies moving oversized or high-value cargo, tax-suspended storage offers several strategic advantages:
- Cash flow flexibility – Businesses can delay duty payments until the goods are ready for sale or use.
- Cost savings – Avoid unnecessary taxes on goods that may be re-exported.
- Improved supply chain management – Secure storage solutions help streamline inventory management.
- Regulatory compliance – Goods remain under customs supervision, reducing the risk of penalties.
- Secure facilities – Protection against theft and damage, ensuring cargo remains in perfect condition.
- Cold storage solutions – Businesses dealing with perishable goods like fresh produce and dairy benefit from controlled storage environments.
OneLogix Mega’s Bonded Storage Facilities
OneLogix Mega provides bonded storage facilities designed to meet the needs of businesses transporting abnormal loads across Southern Africa. Our storage solutions offer customs-compliant warehousing, convenient access for cross-border logistics and local distribution, 24/7 surveillance, and controlled access to safeguard valuable cargo and seamless coordination with our abnormal load transport services.
By choosing OneLogix Mega, businesses can optimise their supply chain, reduce costs, and improve operational efficiency.
How to Access Bonded Storage for Your Cargo
Using tax-suspended storage for your cargo with OneLogix Mega is a straightforward process:
- Consult with our logistics experts to assess your storage and transportation needs.
- Arrange bonded warehousing so that your cargo is safely stored under customs supervision.
- Defer duty payments and only pay duties only when goods leave the bonded facility.
- Seamless transport integration by moving your goods efficiently with our abnormal load transport solutions.
Tax-suspended storage is a game-changer for businesses dealing with oversized and high-value cargo. With OneLogix Mega, we offer secure, cost-effective, and customs-compliant solutions, ensuring that abnormal load transport is streamlined and efficient.
Looking for reliable bonded storage and transport solutions? Contact OneLogix Mega today and let us help you move your cargo. But better!
