📘Chapter 6: Shipping & Clearing at Mombasa Port — The Final Hurdle
Chapter 6: Shipping & Clearing at Mombasa Port — The Final Hurdle
Bringing your dream car from Japan, the UK, or the UAE is exciting — but the real test comes when it lands at the Port of Mombasa. In this chapter, we guide you through everything you need to know about shipping methods, clearing procedures, costs, timelines, and how to avoid delays or penalties.
6.1 🚢 Shipping Methods: RoRo vs Container
There are two main ways your car can be shipped:
| Method | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| RoRo | Roll-on/Roll-off — vehicle is driven onto a ship’s deck and secured. | Cheapest, fast loading/unloading | Exposed to sea air, risk of damage |
| Container | Car is loaded into a sealed metal container (20ft or 40ft). | Better protection, can ship other items | More expensive, longer to clear |
RoRo is most common for Kenyan imports unless you're shipping luxury or multiple cars.
6.2 🧾 Documents Required at Mombasa Port
You (or your clearing agent) must present these documents to KRA and KPA during clearance:
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Original Bill of Lading (BoL)
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Import Declaration Form (IDF)
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Inspection Certificate (JEVIC/QISJ)
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KRA PIN Certificate
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Commercial Invoice
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Vehicle Logbook from Country of Export
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Consignee’s Passport Copy or National ID
6.3 📦 Clearing Process Step-by-Step
Let’s break it down simply:
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Bill of Lading Received
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From the shipping company once vessel departs.
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Import Declaration Form (IDF) Filed
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Done via KenTrade system online using your KRA PIN.
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Vehicle Arrives at Mombasa Port
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Port sends arrival notice to the consignee.
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Engage Clearing Agent
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Agent must be KRA-licensed.
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Pay Import Duties & Levies
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Based on CIF + applicable taxes (refer to Chapter 1).
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Customs Verification & Release
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KRA, KEBS, and Port Police inspect.
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Vehicle Released to You
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You or transporter picks it up for delivery.
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6.4 ⏱️ How Long Does Clearing Take?
| Stage | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Ship Travel (Japan–Kenya) | 28–40 days |
| Port Processing | 5–10 business days |
| Full Clearance (with agent) | 7–14 days total (avg) |
Delays can occur due to port congestion, missing documents, or unpaid taxes.
6.5 💸 Port Charges & Taxes Breakdown
Here’s a typical cost overview once the car arrives:
| Fee Type | Approx. Cost (KES) |
|---|---|
| Import Duty | Varies by car model/engine cc |
| Excise Duty | Based on age & CC |
| VAT (16%) | Calculated on CIF + Duties |
| Port Handling (KPA Fees) | 15,000 – 30,000 |
| Clearing Agent Fee | 15,000 – 25,000 |
| IDF Fee | 2.25% of CIF |
| RDL, RCT, & Inspection Fees | 5,000 – 15,000 combined |
Costs fluctuate depending on car type, year, and port activity.
6.6 🔐 Hiring a Clearing Agent: Tips & Red Flags
Why hire a licensed clearing agent?
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They handle paperwork, port procedures, and KRA systems on your behalf.
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They know how to avoid penalties and fast-track approvals.
Look for:
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KRA license
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Good reviews or referrals
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Transparent fees
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Daily updates
Avoid agents who:
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Promise clearance without documents
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Rush you to pay outside the bank
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Use personal M-Pesa for taxes
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Delay communication
6.7 🚫 Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
| Mistake | Avoid By |
|---|---|
| Delayed IDF or BoL submission | Start paperwork while the ship is en route |
| Unverified inspection certificate | Always confirm JEVIC/QISJ code online |
| Under-invoicing the vehicle value | Declare real value to avoid huge fines |
| Choosing unlicensed agents | Always check KRA registration |
| Failing to pay taxes on time | Budget in advance using the import calculator (see Chapter 1) |
📍 Bonus Tip: Use a Car Tracking App
Once your car is loaded on the vessel, you can track it online using the ship's vessel name and voyage number on sites like:
Just enter your Bill of Lading number, and you’ll know exactly when to expect arrival at Mombasa.
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