If you’re sending or receiving a package with DHL in South Africa, you might be wondering about payment options. Specifically, does DHL offer a cash on delivery (COD) service, and how does it work?
What is Cash on Delivery (COD)?
Cash on Delivery (COD) is a payment method that allows the recipient to pay for their package upon delivery, rather than upfront. This can be a convenient option for buyers who prefer to inspect their goods before making a payment. COD is often used in online shopping and shipping services like DHL to provide peace of mind to both the sender and the receiver.
Does DHL Offer Cash on Delivery (COD) in South Africa?
Yes, DHL offers a Cash on Delivery service in South Africa for certain shipments. This service allows the recipient to pay for the delivery when the package arrives at their address. However, this service comes with an additional fee, which is added to the total shipping cost. The fee for COD can vary depending on factors such as the delivery location, size of the shipment, and the overall value of the goods being shipped.
How Does the DHL COD Service Work?
The process of using COD with DHL in South Africa is straightforward:
- Sender Arranges COD: The sender chooses to use the Cash on Delivery option when booking the shipment with DHL. This is usually done during the shipment creation process. The sender also provides the required amount for the COD payment.
- Recipient Pays on Delivery: When the DHL driver arrives with the package, the recipient is required to pay for the goods before they are handed over. This payment can be made using various methods.
- Payment Methods: DHL’s eCommerce drivers are equipped with payment terminals to accept payments. Cash payments are accepted, but for those who prefer cashless transactions, the driver may also accept card payments or mobile payments depending on the delivery location. This flexibility ensures that recipients can pay in a way that suits them best.
- Security and Insurance: Since COD transactions involve money being exchanged on delivery, they offer a layer of security for both the sender and the recipient. DHL ensures that all COD shipments are subject to additional insurance, which protects the shipment value during transit. However, DHL will not collect any fees or payment for anything other than the shipping charges or official fees related to the delivery.
Why Use DHL’s Cash on Delivery Service?
DHL’s Cash on Delivery service in South Africa comes with several benefits for both senders and recipients:
- Security: The recipient only needs to pay when they receive the goods, which ensures that they are satisfied with the shipment before making any payments.
- Flexibility: With multiple payment options, including cash and card payments, DHL makes it easy for recipients to pay in the most convenient way for them.
- Additional Insurance: Since each COD shipment is insured, the buyer and seller are both protected against potential loss or damage during transit.
- No Prepayment Required: Unlike some other courier services, DHL does not request any payment before the delivery. The entire transaction happens when the package reaches its destination.
Things to Keep in Mind
While DHL’s COD service can be a secure and convenient way to send or receive packages in South Africa, there are a few things you should be aware of:
Need Information or Confused about Something ?
Ask a Question- Additional Fees: There will be an additional charge for using the COD service. The cost varies based on factors like package value and delivery location.
- Availability: COD might not be available for all types of shipments or locations. It’s essential to check with DHL to confirm that COD is an option for your specific delivery.
- Payment Restrictions: Ensure that the recipient has the correct payment method available (cash or card), as some drivers may not accept all types of payments.
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Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2025)
If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.
📌 What is NSFAS?
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.
NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:
- Bursaries: For eligible students who meet academic and household income criteria (especially for TVET and university students).
- Loans: For students who do not meet all bursary criteria or who are pursuing postgraduate qualifications not funded under bursary schemes.
✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?
To qualify for an NSFAS loan (especially for postgraduate students or programs not funded under the bursary system), you must:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be financially needy, with a household income of less than R350,000 per year.
- Have a valid South African ID.
- Be enrolled or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.
- Not be funded through another bursary program that covers all expenses.
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress (returning students).
📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS
NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.
If you’re studying:
- Undergraduate degree or diploma: You are likely eligible for a full NSFAS bursary.
- Postgraduate study: You may qualify for a loan, depending on the course and funding availability.
📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application
When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:
- Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
- Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
- Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
- Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
- Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).
🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online
Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)
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Visit the NSFAS Website
Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za
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Create an Account
- Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
- You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
- Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.
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Login and Start the Application
- After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
- Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.
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Fill in Your Personal Details
- Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
- Provide household income information and living arrangements.
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Upload Required Documents
- Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
- Each document must be clear and under the size limit specified.
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Submit Your Application
- Review your application for accuracy.
- Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.
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Track Your Application
- Log in regularly to check your application status.
- You will be notified via SMS and email at each stage of the process.
🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2025)
- Application Opening Date: September 1, 2025
- Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
- Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
- Disbursement: After registration and approval
Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.
💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?
NSFAS funding typically includes:
- Tuition fees
- Registration fees
- Accommodation (if living away from home)
- Meals and transport
- Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)
For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).
🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment
Repayments are:
- Income-contingent – you only repay when you can afford to.
- Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
- Interest-bearing, but interest rates are low and favorable.
You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.
🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application
If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:
- Log into your MyNSFAS account.
- Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
- If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
- Upload any missing or corrected documents.
- Provide a clear explanation or motivation.
📱 NSFAS Contact Information
- Website: https://www.nsfas.org.za
- Email: info@nsfas.org.za
- Toll-Free Number: 08000 67327 (Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5 PM)
- Twitter: @myNSFAS
- Facebook: NSFAS
📝 Final Tips Before Applying
- Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
- Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
- Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
- Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.
By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.