Stay away, just stay away - it is not worth it.

Stay away, just stay away, spare yourself this frustration - it's not worth the few cents saved. I ordered a R98 item (with free shipping) from TEMU three days ago, and this morning I received a demand email from BUFFALO COURIERS (via Temu) claiming it's for Customs Tax.

They refuse to provide me with the SARS CUSTOMS detailed itemised invoice, which makes me suspicious. Why can't they prove the charges they claim? They insist I pay first, then they'll issue a SARS tax invoice. (Interestingly, the parcel hasn't even arrived in South Africa yet.)

Also why the Customes and VAT is 55% or the value is very questionable. It should be 25% (10%+15%) at most.

I attempted to contact them via WhatsApp, but received no response. There is a problem with they phone lines and you cannot not hear the agent as the line breaks up continuously. You can make out some parts of the conversation due to constant repeating.

Having ordered numerous items from abroad that aren't available locally, I've gained insight into how SARS Customs operates. They typically flag items over $10, and a few papers valued at $5 certainly wouldn't be high on their priority list.

My advice: stay away from them!