What documents do I need to ship cargo to Kenya?

For Kenya you'll need a commercial invoice with HS codes, a packing list, and depending on the goods, a Certificate of Origin and conformity or tracking certificates. We handle your UK customs export entry and advise you on the rest.

Who pays customs duties in Kenya?

Duties, taxes and local charges in Kenya are assessed locally and are the responsibility of the importer or consignee, not included in the freight cost.

Kenya Customs Requirements for UK Cargo

Kenya operates a pre-shipment conformity system and requires an import declaration for all shipments. Here's what applies.

Who handles customs

We handle your UK customs export entry — the declaration that lets your shipment leave the UK. As the shipper, you are responsible for ensuring the correct export documentation is in place. In Kenya, import clearance is handled by the importer or their appointed clearing agent, and duties and taxes are paid locally.

Documents and requirements for Kenya

Import Declaration Form (IDF) — All Kenyan imports require an IDF, filed via the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) system by the importer or their agent.
Certificate of Conformity (CoC) — Goods covered by the KEBS PVoC (Pre-Export Verification of Conformity) programme need a CoC issued by a KEBS-approved agent before shipment.
KRA-licensed clearing agent — A licensed clearing agent is required to clear goods at Mombasa or JKIA — this is a legal requirement in Kenya.
Commercial invoice & HS codes — On company letterhead, describing each item, value and HS commodity code.
Packing list — Must match the commercial invoice exactly in quantities, descriptions and weights.

Goods for personal use under a low value threshold may be exempt from PVoC. Duties, VAT and IDF fees are the importer’s responsibility. Customs requirements change from time to time and depend on what you’re shipping — always confirm the current rules before you ship. We’ll advise you on your specific shipment.

Shipping cargo to Kenya?

We’ll guide you through the paperwork and handle your UK customs export entry.

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See also our full customs guide and our air cargo to Kenya service.