Small business & global shipping advice from DHL Express

A strong business idea can open doors. But keeping those doors open takes careful planning.

Every month, South African businesses move billions of rands’ worth of goods across international borders. In July 2026 alone, the country recorded R173.8 billion in merchandise imports, according to the South African Revenue Service (SARS). For businesses involved in international trade, e-filing compliance is one of the requirements that can affect whether a shipment moves smoothly through the customs process.

When you send a shipment, the parcel isn’t the only thing making its way to the recipient. The information travelling with it is just as important. That’s where a waybill comes in.

When goods move from one place to another, shipping documents need to clearly identify the parties involved. Two terms you’ll often see are consignor and consignee.