The growth of online sales - SAC Customs Clearance

What Is SAC Clearance?

A Guide for E-Commmerce Sellers

Escalating trade tensions between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and China are threatening global supply chains and economic stability. While Australia is not directly involved, the fallout could impact its trade relationships, particularly in mining and agriculture. With protectionist policies on the rise, Australian businesses must focus on diversifying their trade relationships and building resilient supply chains. As uncertainty grows, JTM Cargo Management offers reliable logistics solutions to help businesses navigate these challenges and keep goods moving efficiently.

What is SAC Clearance

SAC stands for Self-Assessed Clearance. It’s a process used by the Australian Border Force to streamline customs clearance for goods with a declared value under AUD $1,000. Instead of going through full customs processing, SAC-eligible shipments can be lodged quickly using a simplified declaration process. This allows for faster turnaround, minimal intervention, and typically no duties or taxes for qualifying goods.

SAC is commonly used by:

  • E-commerce platforms like Temu, Shein, and AliExpress
  • Dropshippers and online sellers shipping B2C into Australia
  • Consolidators sending grouped parcels via airfreight
  • Logistics partners handling direct-to-consumer delivery

Why SAC Clearance Matters in 2025

With rising demand for fast and affordable international shipping, SAC clearance enables sellers to enter the Australian market without complex customs barriers. Especially as U.S. trade becomes more expensive due to new tariffs, SAC opens the door for efficient entry into a high-spend, English-speaking market like Australia.

More concerning, however, are potential disruptions to Australian exports. China, one of Australia’s largest trade partners, has already signalled that it may retaliate against the U.S. for its actions. This poses a serious risk to Australian industries, particularly in mining and agriculture, which rely heavily on global trade routes and market access.

Map of Australia showing large city shippmment ports

JTM Cargo's SAC Clearance Services

JTM Cargo offers high-volume SAC lodgement services starting at just AUD $0.20 per HAWB. We manage the clearance of consolidated shipments arriving via airfreight, ensuring compliance with ABF guidelines and quick delivery turnaround.

We also provide:

  • Manifest-level reporting and reconciliation
  • Clearance summaries for accounting & logistics teams
  • Delivery coordination and returns handling
Customs clearance paperwork on a shipping box on a blue background

Book your logistics transport with JTM Cargo Management

SAC clearance is the backbone of cost-effective e-commerce logistics into Australia. If you’re a seller, consolidator, or logistics partner shipping to Australian customers, JTM Cargo can help you scale efficiently while staying fully compliant. Contact us to learn more or request a quote.

Get in touch with us today at JTM Cargo Management to book your logistics transport and keep your business moving forward.

As global trade wars continue to intensify, the interconnectedness of international commerce becomes even more evident. Businesses and policymakers alike must remain vigilant and adaptable to the evolving trade environment. In times of uncertainty, the importance of resilience, diversification, and strategic foresight cannot be overstated. Australia’s economic future depends on its ability to navigate these challenges and protect its trade interests in a volatile global economy.

Contact JTM Cargo Management today for hassle-free transportation of your goods and cargo. Our coastal sea and air freight options are secure and reliable.