Simplifying Shipping to Kenya Today
When shipping to Kenya, finding a reliable and cost-effective service is crucial. Whether you’re relocating, sending goods for business, or delivering personal items, understanding the shipping process can save you time and money. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about shipping to Kenya—from choosing the right shipping method to navigating customs regulations. Get ready to make your shipping experience smooth and hassle-free, ensuring your goods reach their destination safely and on time.
Container Shipping to Kenya
Container shipping is one of the most reliable ways to transport goods to Kenya, whether you’re moving personal belongings, commercial cargo, or shipping a car to Kenya. Depending on the volume and type of goods you’re shipping, you can choose between two main container options: Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL).
LCL Shipping to Kenya
Less than Container Load (LCL) shipping is recommended if you have smaller shipments that do not require a full container. In this method of shipping, you and other shippers share a standard container. Your goods are consolidated with other shipments, which can result in longer transit times. However, it’s a budget-friendly choice for individuals or businesses shipping smaller volumes.
Cost of LCL shipping to Kenya
Appropriate for shipping pallets, boxes, and entire container loads weighing between 250 and 20,000 pounds.
LCL – $110.00 per CBM
Personal effects – $580.50
Household goods – $810.20
FCL shipping to Kenya
When shipping a large volume of goods, a Full Container Load (FCL) is the ideal choice. All of the container is reserved for the shipper’s goods, which will travel alone. This option offers greater control over your shipment, reducing the risk of damage since your items are the only ones in the container. FCL is also typically faster, as it doesn’t require consolidation with other shipments. Note that the cost for FCL shipping is also higher since you are not sharing a container.
Cost of FCL shipping to Kenya
Ideal for hauling pallets, crates, and entire container loads weighing between 250 and 45,000 pounds.
- Twenty-footer cost – $2,050
- A 40-foot container cost – $2740
How much does cargo shipping to Kenya cost?
The cost of container shipping to Kenya might vary depending on the circumstances. There are several variables at play, including:
- Products you are shipping
- The shipping service of your choice (LCL or FCL)
- Weight of your cargo
- Size of your cargo
- Distance between your origin port and your final destination
- Type of movement (door-to-door, port-to-port)
What is the transit time for shipping to Kenya?
The transit time for shipping containers to Kenya depends on a number of variables, including your selected method of sea freight (whether LCL or FCL), whether your ship travels directly or makes many stops, and also the location from your pick – up point and the port of delivery in Kenya. The time it takes for your package to arrive can range from 4 to 45days.
What kind of freight can be transported in a container?
Less limits apply to the kinds of commodities that can be transported via ocean freight. Food items, huge cargo, such as automobiles, machinery, or manufacturing products, can all be shipped. Ocean freight offers a virtually limitless array of options.
You should keep in mind, though, that Kenya can have some limitations on the types of products you can import. So that there are no issues with your cargo, be aware of them. You will need to present additional documentation, licenses, or certificates if the cargo you wish to ship is restricted.
What size container is necessary for my cargo?
The following sizes are available for ocean container shipping to Kenya:
20 ft. container – 33.2 CBM
40ft container – 63.5 CBM
40ft high cube – 76.4 CBM
Choosing the Right Container: When deciding between FCL and LCL, consider the size of your shipment, the value of your goods, and your budget. FCL is often the better choice for high-value items or when timing is critical. LCL, on the other hand, is perfect for smaller, non-urgent shipments.
Why Choose Us for Your Container Shipping to Kenya Needs: We offer competitive rates for both FCL and LCL shipments to Kenya, with a focus on reliability and customer satisfaction. Our team is experienced in handling all aspects of international shipping, from packing and documentation to customs clearance. Whether you need door-to-door service or port-to-port delivery, we provide flexible options to suit your needs.
Kenya’s Customs Clearance
Customs clearance is a process that all imports into Kenya must go through. Before your items can enter the country, customs officials will want you to complete and submit a number of documentations. The documents you must submit are listed below:
- Commercial bill
- Letter of Credit/Other Terms of Payment
- Packing list
- Import permits and certificates of origin
- Either an airway bill or bill of lading
Procedures for container shipping to Kenya
It might be extremely challenging to ship a container to Kenya. We advise hiring a freight forwarder who can guide you through the procedure and make sure your shipment is delivered successfully.
Your goods will be combined with other consignments in a container freight terminal if LCL is the ocean freight option you choose. Instead of going through this procedure, FCL shipments join LCL cargo in the fumigation process.
The process of fumigation involves getting rid of bugs, vermin, and other dangerous organisms that could contaminate your shipment. The ship can set out for Kenya once this process is completed.
All items must be cleared by customs when they arrive in Kenya. This procedure shouldn’t be difficult and should be completed very quickly as long as you have the proper documentation. You can pick up your items at the destination port once they have been given the all-clear for import. The items will be delivered to the location of your choice if you choose a specific movement service, like port-to-door shipping or door-to-door delivery.
Ocean shipping from USA to Kenya has never been simpler. For your shipments to Kenya. With the lowest shipping costs, Ameritrans freight offers Kenya the most dependable ocean shipping services. The average ocean freight transit time from the USA to Kenya is 45 days.
Car Shipping to Kenya from USA
Shipping a car to Kenya from the USA requires careful planning and understanding of the process to ensure a smooth and successful experience. Whether you’re shipping a personal vehicle or commercial fleet, knowing your options and the steps involved is crucial.
1. Choosing the Right Shipping Method:
When shipping a car to Kenya, you have two main options:
- Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) Shipping: This is the most popular and cost-effective method for shipping a car. Your vehicle is driven onto a specialized RoRo ship and securely parked for the journey. RoRo is ideal for operable vehicles and offers straightforward loading and unloading processes.
- Container Shipping: If you prefer added protection for your vehicle or are shipping multiple cars or personal items along with your car, container shipping is the way to go. Your vehicle is loaded into a container, ensuring it is shielded from the elements and potential damage. This method is particularly suitable for luxury or classic cars.
2. Documentation and Customs Clearance:
To successfully ship a car to Kenya, you’ll need to provide the necessary documentation, including but not limited to:
- Original Commercial Invoice
- Original Logbook from the country of importation that has been cancelled from the country of origin, as this will be required by National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to give you an original Kenyan Log Book
- Original Bill of lading
- Pre-shipment inspection certificate. (certificate of road worthiness)
- Copy of your PIN certificate/ Copy of certificate of Incorporation (applicable to companies)
Additionally, your car must meet Kenya’s import regulations, including age limits ( less then 8years old), must be right hand drive, and must be inspected for road worthiness by an agent of KEBS in the country of export. Be sure to check with Kenyan authorities or your shipping provider to ensure compliance.
3. Estimated cost of car shipping to Kenya
Ideal for shipping personal vehicles, farm machinery, equipment, big vehicles.
Sedan (in-container) – $2,820.00
SUV (in-container) – $2,780.00
Sedan via RORO – $1,800
SUV via RORO – $2,100
Factors that affect cost of car shipping to Kenya
The cost of shipping a car to kenya is affected by factors such as the shipping method, the make and model of the vehicle, and the port of departure.
We specialize in car shipping to Kenya, offering competitive rates and personalized service to ensure your vehicle arrives safely and on time. Our team handles all the logistics, from pick-up in the USA to delivery in Kenya, so you can focus on other aspects of your move or business. With our expertise, you can rest assured that your car shipping experience will be smooth and hassle-free.
Ports of Departure and Arrival
Kenyan travelers can depart from the following ports:
- Tacoma, WA
- Port Hueneme, CA
- San Diego, CA
- Port Hueneme, CA
- San Diego, CA
- Freeport TX
Kenya only has one arriving port, which is the Port of Mombasa. The hub of the Port of Mombasa, the largest seaport in East Africa and the sole international seaport in Kenya, is Kilindini Harbour.
Customs & duty in Kenya
Depending on the contents of your shipment, Kenya’s customs and duty regulations may be complicated.
Kenyan customs rules have been compiled by Ameritrans freight in an understandable way.
Duty and tax computation is one of the custom brokerage services.
- preparation and filing of a protest
- monitoring liquidation issues
- System of duty drawbacks
- Solutions for trade facilitation.
How long does it take a package from USA to Kenya?
From the USA, shipping to Kenya takes five to twenty-five working days (depending on the shipping method). We use carriers like FedEx, DHL, USPS, and also on Planet Mail to ship goods to Kenya. Small packages start at about $10, and you also get package tracking.
Paperwork required to ship a car to Kenya
The two paperwork required to ship a car to Kenya include:
- Original Title
- ID
When transporting an automobile through Kenya, age limitations on vehicles differ from those in other African nations. Mombasa is a highly well-liked port for shipping autos to neighboring African nations. In general, Kenya only permits the importation of automobiles that are 5 years old or younger and no older than 8 years. Call the Kenya Revenue Authority or the Embassy to double-check the most recent age restrictions for vehicles.
A free and clear title of ownership with no liens.
If you purchased a vehicle brand-new, your name as the registered owner must appear on the front of the title.
Both the seller and the buyer must sign the title’s back in the designated spots if the vehicle has been sold.
Air Freight shipping to Kenya from USA
Depending on which is greater between volumetric weight and also actual weight, we assess a $9 per kilogram fees.
Send your cargo in and also, you’ll only have to pay $9/KG plus 4% for freight-based value over $170.
Prohibited items
- Passports or travel documents
- Acids
- Pornography
- Soil
- Blank Invoices
- Biological weapons
- Bioharzards
- Chemical weapons
- Mutagens
- Asbestos
- Viagra
- Illegal drugs
- Counterfeit money
- Knives and also dangerous weapons
- Military & Law Enforcement items
- Plants and also plant products
- Ivory
- Progeny eggs
- Meat and also meat products
- Furs & Hides
- Airline tickets
Shop and ship online with Ameritrans Freight
Send us the precise URLs to the products you want us to purchase on your behalf in the USA.
During regular business hours, we’ll send you a quote in 8 hours.
You accept the quote and pay the purchase amount.
During regular business hours, we’ll buy everything for you and also provide you a confirmation within 8 hours.
From the beginning of the procedure till your packages arrive in Kenya, we’ll keep you informed.
FAQs
- Should I choose FCL, LCL, or Break Bulk for my ocean shipping to Kenya?
It can be challenging to select the best ocean shipping method, but you only need to take into account your priorities and the requirements of your goods. We give you advice so that you can make a wise and well-informed choice.
Less than Container Load (LCL) Shipping to Kenya
- The following cargo should be shipped as less than container loads:
- Little in amount or size
- Not urgently required.
- A good choice for regular handling or transportation
- It’s acceptable to combine consignments from different sellers.
- Not perishable, sensitive, or fragile
Full Container Load (FCL) Shipping to Kenya
If your shipment is one that includes a complete container load, you might choose to do so instead.
- Hefty, large, thick, or obese
- Fragile, delicate, or perishable
- Not designed for constant handling and also movement.
- Shipped in isolation is safer.
- To arrive in Kenya at a specific moment or date
Bulk Break
Your freight forwarder might advise break bulk transportation if your cargo does not fit into any of the common container sizes. Your items will be sent separately and also carried using various containers if you choose this option.
- What Incoterms are appropriate for my shipment?
Your obligations and liabilities as a shipper are defined by Incoterms throughout the transportation procedure. Therefore, making the appropriate choice is essential to safeguarding your interests. The top Incoterms to use are listed below:
- Best Incoterms for Exporters CPT (Carriage Paid To): The seller is responsible for transporting the products to the specified location and performing the terms of the carriage contract. Until the items are turned over to the carrier, the seller is responsible.
- Similar duties to CPT, but with the additional need that the seller get insurance. CIP (Carriage and also insurance Paid To)
- DAP (Delivered at Place): The seller is in charge of the majority of the delivery of the products to the buyer’s chosen location.
- When shipment is done DDP (Delivery Duty Paid), the seller is in charge from start to finish. This reduces the buyer’s obligations to a minimum.
- FCA (Free Carrier): The seller is responsible for both the delivery of the goods to the carrier and also payment of all customs fees.
- The best incoterms for importers are FCA (Free Carrier), which require the seller to both deliver the goods to the carrier and pay for customs.
- EXW (Ex Works): The buyer is given more responsibility, from picking up the products from the seller’s location or warehouse to organizing transportation.
- Is marine insurance necessary?
We provide insurance with a $500 deductible for theft, vandalism, damage, and also total loss in the amount of 1.75% of the vehicle’s worth. Your automobile is also covered from the moment it is carried onto the ship until the moment it is signed for when it is picked up. Total Loss: 1.25% of the value of the car is charged.
Remember that you are not essential to pay the entire worth of the vehicle. You can insure your vehicle for 50% or 75% of its worth if you deem marine insurance to be excessively expensive. In the absence of insurance, any damages would be your responsibility to cover. Conclusion
Conclusion
With us, you can ship with confidence knowing that your items will arrive safely and securely. Also, at a large cost savings because of our innovative packaging methods. Our logistics staff has extensive experience properly grouping or repackaging products from many vendors into the fewest number of packages possible. Please contact us to get an accurate quote, cater your shipping process and also any other services
Contact us for a quote;