Power Bank Imports South Africa: PVoC CoC Requirements

Why Power Banks Are Regulated

Fire and Explosion Risk

Power banks are regulated because they contain lithium-ion or lithium polymer cells that can cause fires and explosions if they are defective, overcharged, or short-circuited. Non-compliant power banks — particularly those with counterfeit cells or inadequate battery management systems — have caused fires on aircraft, in homes, and in vehicles.

The applicable standards include SANS 62133 (safety requirements for portable sealed secondary lithium cells and batteries) and SANS 62368 (audio/video, information and communication technology equipment — safety requirements, which covers the charging circuit and output connectors).

Power banks are also subject to dangerous goods transport regulations (IATA/ICAO for air transport, IMDG for sea transport) because of the fire risk associated with lithium batteries. These transport regulations are separate from the PVoC CoC requirement.

Types of Power Banks Covered

From Small Pocket Chargers to High-Capacity Banks

Small power banks (5,000–10,000 mAh) for charging smartphones are regulated. Medium power banks (10,000–30,000 mAh) for charging multiple devices are regulated. Large power banks (30,000+ mAh) for charging laptops and tablets are regulated. Solar power banks (with integrated solar panels) are regulated.

The HS codes most commonly associated with power banks include 8507.60 (lithium-ion accumulators) and 8504.40 (static converters). Confirm the correct HS code with your clearing agent.

Power banks are also subject to IATA dangerous goods regulations for air transport. Importers who ship power banks by air should confirm the applicable IATA restrictions with their freight forwarder.

The Certification Process

How to Obtain a PVoC CoC

To obtain a PVoC CoC for power banks, contact an SABS-accredited inspection body and provide them with the product specifications, applicable SANS standards, and planned shipment details. The inspection typically involves a review of the manufacturer's test reports from an accredited testing laboratory against SANS 62133.

Once the inspection body issues a CoC PDF, register it on CoC Vault to create a tamper-evident digital record and permanent verification URL for use in SAD 500 customs declarations.