DEWALT is one of the world’s most trusted and respected tool brands, known for its innovation, durability, and engineering excellence. With hundreds of models available globally, it’s no surprise that South African professionals and DIYers often come across tools online or overseas that aren’t available locally.

At CIB Partners, as the official distributor of DEWALT in South Africa, we get many inquiries asking:

• “Can you bring in this DEWALT model I saw on Amazon?”
• “Why can’t I buy the same DEWALT tool here that my cousin in the UK is using?”

We hear you. And we’d love to say yes to every request, but unfortunately, it’s not that simple. Here's why:

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1. Not All DEWALT Tools Are Ranged for the South African Market

Every country has its own product range, designed around:

• Local voltage (South Africa uses 230V/50Hz, unlike 120V in the USA),
• Market demand and application,
• Safety standards and regulatory compliance,
• After-sales support and spare parts availability.

DEWALT, through its global distribution network, selects a specific range of tools to be sold in South Africa. These are chosen to meet local industry needs and comply with all relevant regulations.

2. The Role of the NRCS and the Letter of Authority (LoA)

In South Africa, the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS) is responsible for ensuring that products sold in the country meet national safety and performance standards.

For certain regulated product categories—especially electrical tools, pressure equipment, and gas appliances—a product must be issued with a Letter of Authority (LoA) before it can be:

• Imported into South Africa,
• Cleared through customs,
• Or legally sold in the local market.

This isn't just red tape, it’s critical to protect consumers and ensure the safety of products sold here. Products without an LoA can be:

• Confiscated at the port of entry,
• Flagged as non-compliant,
• Or worse, pose safety risks to users.

3. Why We Can't “Special Order” a DEWALT Tool Without an LoA

Even if you’re willing to wait or pay extra for a one-off tool, we unfortunately cannot import or sell DEWALT tools that are not already approved by the NRCS. The LoA application process is not something that can be bypassed, it requires:

• Full product testing by accredited labs,
• Technical documentation,
• Often lengthy turnaround times,
• And in many cases, manufacturer involvement.

This means it is not feasible or legal to bring in a product that is not already approved, no matter how small the quantity or how high the demand.

4. Our Commitment: Safe, Compliant, and Supported Tools

As an authorised distributor, we take our responsibility seriously. We only supply genuine DEWALT tools that:

• Meet NRCS safety regulations,
• Are fully supported with local warranties and spares availability,
• And come with the peace of mind that they’re built and certified for the South African market.

5. What If the Tool You Want Isn't Available Here?

We get it, sometimes the exact model you need isn’t available. In these cases:

• Our technical team can often recommend a similar or upgraded alternative from the local range.
• If there’s significant demand for a specific tool, we work closely with DEWALT to evaluate future range expansions.

Final Thoughts

DEWALT’s global range is huge, and it’s tempting to want access to every tool ever made. But the local range exists for a reason: to ensure that every product on our shelves is safe, legal, competitively priced and fit for purpose.

If you’re unsure whether a tool is available in South Africa or want help choosing the right model, our team is always here to help.

Let’s build smart, safe, and strong together.