The CSD registration process on supplier.gov.za is divided into several sequential stages. Attempting to complete all stages in a single session without preparation is likely to result in frustration. This module walks you through each stage in sequence, with specific notes on common error points and how to avoid them.
Stage 1: Create your user account. Navigate to supplier.gov.za and click 'Register'. You will create an individual user account — this is your personal login that will be linked to the company profile you subsequently register. Provide your personal email address (this will be used for all CSD communications), a South African mobile number for OTP verification, and your personal South African ID number. Do not use a generic company email address for the user account — use a personal email belonging to an authorised person in the company, as this account holder is responsible for managing the company's CSD profile. After submitting, you will receive an email verification link — click it within 24 hours to activate your account.
Stage 2: Add a business profile. Once your user account is active, log in and select 'Add Supplier'. Choose the correct entity type (company, close corporation, sole trader, etc.) from the dropdown. Enter your company registration number as it appears on your CIPC certificate — including the correct format with the year prefix (e.g., 2018/123456/07). The CSD will automatically pull the entity details from the CIPC register if the number is correct. If no details are returned, check that your CIPC registration is current and that you have used the correct format. Common mistakes here include using the old CC number format instead of the current CIPRO number format, and entering a voluntary association number instead of a company registration number.
Stage 3: Complete the company details. This section requires you to enter the company's trading name (if different from the registered name), physical address, postal address, contact details, and primary business activities. The business activity section uses a commodity classification system — select the commodity codes that best describe what your company offers. Choose multiple codes if relevant, as these codes are used by procurement officials and alert systems to identify suitable suppliers. Be thorough here: many companies only select one or two codes and miss relevant opportunities that are published under codes they have not selected.
Stage 4: Enter directors' information. For each director or member, enter their personal details including full names as they appear on their ID, their SA ID number, and their role in the company. The CSD cross-checks these details against the CIPC director register. If your directors have recently changed, ensure that the CIPC register has been updated first — there is typically a lag between a CIPC director update and its reflection in the CSD cross-check. Upload certified copies of identity documents for each director.
Stage 5: Enter bank account details. Provide your company bank account details including bank name, branch code, account number, and account type. The CSD will attempt to verify these details with your bank through an automated verification process. This step is where many registrations fail — ensure your account is active, in the company's registered name, and that the branch code is correct. Some banks may take 2–3 business days to confirm account details through the CSD verification channel, so if the verification does not complete immediately, check back after 48 hours before raising a support ticket.
Stage 6: Submit and await review. Once all sections are complete, submit the profile for review. The review is conducted by National Treasury CSD administrators who check that all documentation is present and that the automated cross-checks with CIPC, SARS, and the bank have passed. Processing time is typically 5 to 10 business days for a complete application. You will receive email notifications at each stage of the review. If the review identifies missing or incorrect information, you will be given an opportunity to correct and resubmit. Once approved, your CSD profile status will change to 'Active' and you will receive your CSD supplier number.