What Plugs Do They Use in South Africa? Guide on Shipping Electrical Items From the UK

If you’re moving to South Africa from the UK, you’ll want to find out if your electrical items will work there. Thankfully, the UK and South Africa use the same voltage and frequency, so most electronics can be used safely without a voltage converter, just a change of plug or adapter is usually enough.

The expert team at 1st Move International offers guaranteed weekly shipping to South Africa, ensuring your household goods and electrical appliances are shipped quickly and safely. 

This guide explores the differences in plugs between the UK and South Africa, the items that will work, and what’s best to leave behind. We’ll also cover customs rules for importing electronics and discuss the best way to ship your electrical goods to South Africa. 

Are UK and South African plugs the Same?

No, the UK and South Africa use different plugs, with the UK using Type G plugs and South Africa mainly using Type M and sometimes Type C and Type N. This means that UK appliances are not compatible with South African plugs. The good news is that both countries share the same voltage and frequency at 230V and 50Hz, so there is no need to use voltage converters, just an adapter on most items.

South Africa’s Type M plug has 3 large round prongs, whilst UK plugs have 3 rectangular prongs. South African plugs can support up to 15 amps, meaning you can use high-power items that are under 15 amps in the UK, like washing machines, toasters, and kettles. Let’s compare the similarities and differences between the plug types.

Feature	UK	South Africa
Plug Type	Type G	Type M is the main type, but also uses Types C and N
Pin Shape	3 rectangular prongs	3 large round prongs
Voltage	230V	230V
Frequency	50Hz	50Hz
Amps	13	15 (C and N are lower, so always check)

Voltage, Frequency, and Amperage Explained

Both the UK and South Africa operate on the same electrical frequency (50Hz) and nearly identical voltage levels, 230V in the UK and 230–240V in South Africa, so UK items only need the correct adapter.

As both countries use 240V and 50Hz, you won’t need to use a heavy voltage converter, and your items should perform well. South African plugs also support up to 15 amps, which is good news as most UK plugs are rated up to 13 amps. This means you can safely use most UK items without risking overload or performance issues.

UK Appliances That Work Well in South Africa

All UK appliances that fall within the voltage, frequency and amperage range will be compatible and perform well in South Africa. Some examples of everyday items include:

• Laptops and Phone Chargers – These are often fitted with their own voltage converter, so typically can be used worldwide with the correct adapter.
• TVs – UK TVs work fine with just an adapter, but you’ll have to check if the TV tuner supports local TV.
• Hairdryers and Electric Shavers – Often dual voltage (110–240V), but check the label. Even if it’s 220–240V only, it will still work in South Africa without a converter.
• Kettles, Toasters, and Microwaves – These items are often higher wattage, so it’s advised to avoid using them with multi-socket extensions.
• Washing Machines – UK washing machines are compatible with South Africa’s plug sockets. 
• Fridges – Again, these work well, but you should always check the fridge dimensions and plumbing/electrical connections in your new home in South Africa.
• Freezers – Freezers are also compatible in South Africa, but you should check the climate class to ensure it’ll perform well in a hot environment like South Africa. 

Items to be Careful With

Although most UK electrical items can be used safely in South Africa, you should be cautious with any high-powered items that are close to or exceed the amp limit.

• Powerful Heaters – Large heaters are extremely powerful at around 2,000 to 3,000 watts (8.7–13 amps), so you shouldn’t plug these into an extension lead, only a dedicated socket. 
• Tumble Dryers – For high-powered items like tumble dryers, it’s recommended to get your plugs changed to avoid using adapters long-term.
• Steam Irons – Irons are safe to use, but they use a lot of energy. You should be cautious with overloading plugs and make sure your adapter can support it.
• Multi Socket Extension Leads – These aren’t designed to be used in 15 amp sockets in South Africa and can pose a fire risk.
• Certain Power Tools – Tools that have induction motors or high power draw, like table saws or compressors, should be used with caution, as they are often high wattage.

What to Consider Leaving Behind

• Old items that are on their way out might not be worth taking. You might find it difficult to source compatible parts in South Africa if they need repairing.
• Any items that have poor efficiency rates may not meet South African efficiency or environmental standards. 

Will My UK TV Work in South Africa?

Yes, your UK TV will work in South Africa as they share the same votlage and frequency, but the channels you receive maybe limited. Although they both use DBV-T2, channel frequencies may vary, so your tuner might not work perfectly with local free-to-air signals. Most smart TVs are worth taking as oyu can a local set-top box or use a satellite/cable service. You might be better off buying a new TV locally if your TV is an older model.

When to Use an Electrician in South Africa

Certain items that don’t have standard plugs may need to be rewired or installed by a professional in South Africa. 

• Ovens and cookers – These appliances are often hard-wired to dedicated circuits in both countries, so they may require professional installation.
• Electric showers or water heaters – Showers are hardwired and must meet safety codes in South Africa. 
• Tumble dryers and certain washing machines – Depending on the model and plug type, some might need a higher current and need to be rewired.
• Dishwashers – These will need to be installed professionally. They typically need the power connection rewired or a dedicated socket installed.
• Hardwired lighting fixtures – Ceiling or built-in lights will typically have to be rewired to meet South African standards. 

How Much Does Shipping Electronics From the UK to South Africa Cost?

To ship household items, including electronic appliances, from the UK to South Africa, it will cost £1,550 for a 20ft container move or £2,450 for a larger, 40ft shipping container. South Africa container shipping costs will vary depending on the volume of items you’re shipping and your final destination. 

To get an accurate, tailored quote for your move to South Africa, enter details of your move in our easy-to-use form, and one of our moving experts will be in touch. This will help you to budget and know what to expect when it comes to shipping and moving costs.

How to Ship Electronics to South Africa 

You can ship personal belongings from the UK to South Africa duty-free if you have been outside of South Africa for at least six months for purposes other than holiday, vacation, or touring, and your accommodation abroad must have been unfurnished or semi-furnished. If you are a returning resident and don’t meet the criteria, you’ll have to follow the import process and prepare to pay any customs charges. Our South Africa customs guide provides in-depth information on the process.

It’s highly recommended to hire a professional international removal company to handle the hard work. At 1st Move International, we have a team of customs experts to guide you through the process and have over 25 years of experience in the industry. We provide you with blank copies of the relevant forms, the DA304 and P1.160 forms, and help you complete them. Our unique service also qualifies for Fast Track customs clearance, so your belongings arrive in South Africa quicker than others.