Module 2: Hardware & Suppliers

Navigate South African electronics supply chains like a pro

Beginner ~2 hours 0% Complete

Hardware & Suppliers Overview

Navigate South Africa's electronics supply chains like a pro and build cost-effective Arduino projects.

What You'll Master

  • ▸ Find reliable South African Arduino suppliers
  • ▸ Calculate total project costs with import duties
  • ▸ Compare suppliers for best value and quality
  • ▸ Navigate SARS import regulations
  • ▸ Avoid counterfeit components
  • ▸ Plan for SA-specific challenges (power, shipping)

Time Investment

Supplier Research: 45 mins
Cost Calculations: 30 mins
Import Guidelines: 30 mins
Hands-on Tools: 15 mins

South African Arduino Reality

Import duties, shipping costs, and supplier reliability are critical factors for SA makers. This module addresses real challenges like load shedding impacts, currency fluctuations, and getting quality components without breaking the bank.

Quick Tools Access

Cost Calculator

Calculate exact project costs with SA pricing

Hardware Wizard

Get personalized component recommendations

Supplier Finder

Find trusted suppliers in your area

South African Arduino Suppliers

Discover trusted suppliers with detailed analysis of pricing, shipping, and reliability.

Quick Comparison

Select up to 3 suppliers to compare side-by-side:

Select suppliers above to see comparison

Supplier Comparison

Side-by-side analysis of pricing, shipping, and service quality.

Select suppliers to compare

Go back to the Suppliers section and select 2-3 suppliers for detailed comparison.

South African Import Guide

Navigate SARS regulations, duties, and shipping options for Arduino components.

SARS Duty Calculator

SARS Import Guidelines

Duty-Free Threshold

Items under R500 are typically duty-free, but still subject to VAT if over R50.

Electronics Import Duty

Arduino boards and electronic components are subject to 15% import duty + VAT.

Documentation Required

Invoice, packing list, and customs declaration. Personal imports under R20,000 have simplified procedures.

Shipping Options

PostNet / Aramex

7-14 days R150-R400 High reliability

Best for small orders. Handles customs clearance.

DHL / FedEx

3-7 days R300-R800 Very high

Fast but expensive. Includes door-to-door service.

SA Post (Registered)

14-30 days R50-R150 Variable

Cheapest but unreliable. Risk of loss or delays.

Interactive Tools

Use our specialized tools to make informed hardware decisions.

Advanced Cost Calculator

Calculate exact project costs with real-time SA market prices, including import duties and shipping.

✓ Real-time pricing ✓ Import duty calculation ✓ Multi-supplier comparison
Open Calculator

Hardware Selection Wizard

Get personalized component recommendations based on your experience level and project goals.

✓ Experience-based suggestions ✓ Budget optimization ✓ SA supplier integration
Start Wizard

Supplier Finder

Find trusted Arduino suppliers in your area with detailed reviews and contact information.

✓ Location-based search ✓ User reviews ✓ Stock availability
Find Suppliers

Integrated Workflow

Use our tools together for the best results:

1

Hardware Wizard

Get personalized recommendations

→
2

Cost Calculator

Calculate exact project costs

→
3

Supplier Finder

Find the best suppliers