How to Register on the Central Supplier Database (CSD)
If you want your business to supply goods or services to government departments, municipalities or public entities in South Africa, registering on the Central Supplier Database (CSD) should be one of your first priorities.
The process is free, completed online, and only takes a short time if you have all the required information ready.
This guide walks you through every step.
Before You Start
Have the following ready:
- CIPC Registration Number
- Director ID Numbers
- Company Banking Details
- SARS Tax Information
- Company Contact Details
- Physical Address
- Email Address
- Mobile Number
Step 1: Visit the CSD Website
Go to the official Central Supplier Database website.
Create a new supplier account using your email address.
Verify your email before continuing.
Step 2: Capture Supplier Information
Complete your:
- Business Name
- Registration Number
- Trading Name (if applicable)
- Business Type
- Industry
Double-check every detail before continuing.
Step 3: Add Director Information
Capture information for every director or owner.
The system verifies identity information automatically.
Step 4: Add Banking Details
Provide:
- Bank
- Branch
- Account Number
- Account Type
Your banking information will be verified.
Verification may take a few days depending on your bank.
Step 5: Tax Verification
Enter your tax information.
The CSD system checks your compliance directly with SARS.
If your business isn't tax compliant, resolve any outstanding issues before proceeding.
Step 6: Commodity Selection
Select the products or services your business provides.
Choose carefully because government buyers search suppliers using these categories.
Step 7: Submit Registration
Review everything one final time.
Submit your application.
The system will begin validating your information.
What Happens Next?
The CSD verifies:
- Company Registration
- Banking Details
- Tax Compliance
- Director Information
Once verification is complete, your supplier profile becomes active.
Common Mistakes
Avoid these common problems:
- Incorrect banking details
- Wrong email address
- Old phone numbers
- Selecting incorrect commodities
- Not keeping your profile updated
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CSD registration free?
Yes.
Government does not charge for registration.
How long does registration take?
Creating the profile usually takes less than an hour.
Verification may take several days.
Can I update my information later?
Yes.
Your profile should always reflect your latest business information.
After Registering
Your next steps should be:
- Register on the National eTender Portal
- Register on the Transnet Tender Portal
- Obtain Tax Compliance Status
- Build your Tender File
- Prepare your Funding Readiness documents
Continue Reading
- Why Every South African Business Should Register on CSD
- How to Register on the National eTender Portal
- Tender Readiness Checklist
- How to Spot Fake RFQs
- How to Spot Fake Purchase Orders
Chesly.Tech Insights publishes practical guides that help South African businesses become funding-ready, procurement-ready and digitally competitive.
Creative Strategist at Chesly.Tech.
