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What is freight consolidation
Freight consolidation is a logistics strategy in which a company such as SendWell Cargo Ltd consolidates multiple small shipments from different carriers into a single, larger shipment for a single destination.
How it works
1. Pickup:
Several companies, such as SendWell Cargo Ltd, deliver their small shipments to a consolidation point, such as a warehouse or consolidation center.
2. Consolidation:
A coordination provider or freight forwarder such as SendWell Cargo Ltd then consolidates these small shipments.
3. Combined shipping:
The merged goods are loaded into a single container or truck and transported to their destination.
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What is the cost of shipping from China to Kenya
Shipping costs from China to Kenya vary significantly based on the mode of transport, type of cargo, and delivery timelines.
Air freight typically ranges between $2 and $15 per kilogram, depending on the weight, size, and nature of the goods. However, full container load (FCL) services can sustain higher overall charges due to the size of the container and logistics handling. By using SendWell Cargo Ltd you are assured of receiving these services.
Air Freight Costs
Small packages/documents: approximately $5-$ 15 per kilogram.
Samples/clothing: approximately $3-$ 10 per kilogram.
Breakfast: Less than $6-$ 8 per kilogram for shipments over 100 kilograms.
Ocean Freight Costs
Less than a Container Load (LCL): approximately $120-150 per cubic meter (CBM).
Full Container Load (FCL): A 20-foot container can cost approximately $2,200 to $ 3,650.
What is sea freight vs air freight
Ocean freight involves the transport of goods by cargo ship and is cost-effective, especially for large volumes, but slower.
Air freight utilizes aircraft for faster Delivery and enhanced security, making it ideal for urgent and valuable items, such as perishables. However, it is more expensive and subject to size restrictions and they are both offered by SendWell Cargo Ltd.
Ocean freight
Cost: Cheaper, making it suitable for low-budget shipments.
Capacity: Can transport a large volume of goods and heavy or oversized items.
What is door-to-door shipping
Door-to-door shipping is a comprehensive logistics service in which a single freight forwarder, like SendWell Cargo Ltd or a carrier, manages the entire freight transportation process, from pickup at the location designated by the shipper (the “door”) to Delivery at the address specified by the recipient (the “gate”).
Key features of door-to-door shipping:
End-to-end management:
SendWell Cargo Ltd manages the entire supply chain.
Single point of contact:
The customer interacts with a single provider for the entire process, simplifying the experience.
Multi-phase management:
The service includes pickup, loading, international transportation (sea, air, or road), customs clearance, and final Delivery.
What is customs clearance
Customs clearance is the official process by which a country’s customs authorities clear goods imported or exported. It involves submitting and verifying required documentation, assessing and paying applicable duties and taxes, and complying with trade laws and regulations before the goods are released for shipment.
Key aspects of customs clearance
Documentation:
It involves preparing and submitting all documentation required for import or export, including the trading invoice, packing list, air waybill, and certificate of origin.
Declaration:
Importers or their designated customs agents must submit a customs declaration form, such as the Kenya TradeNet Import Declaration Form (IDF), and pay the associated fees.
What is a bill of lading
It is a crucial shipping document that serves three primary functions: it serves as a docket for the goods shipped, a contract of carriage between the sender and the carrier, and proof of ownership, which allows the holder to claim ownership of the goods.
Key Functions of a Bill of Lading
Receipt:
Confirms that the carrier has received the specified goods under the conditions stipulated for shipment.
Contract of Carriage:
This is a legally binding agreement between the shipper (SendWell Cargo Ltd), the carrier, and the consignee (the person or entity receiving the goods), outlining the terms and conditions governing the shipment’s transportation.
What is import duty in Kenya
Import duties are taxes levied by a government on goods imported into a country. Depending on the imported item, import duties range from 0% to 25%, in accordance with the Common External Tariff (CET) of the East African Community.
However, delicate items are subject to import duties exceeding 25%. These items are listed in Schedule 2 of the Common Superficial Tariff of the East African Community.
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What is the best way to ship multiple shipments
The best way to ship multiple shipments depends on the destination. Generally, it’s recommended to use multi-package shipping services, such as SendWell Cargo Ltd, or consolidation services to consolidate packages or ship them in separate, well-packaged boxes, thereby avoiding excessive costs and potentially saving money.
For shipments to the same address
Group your items in a single shipment:
If your items are destined for a single destination, group them in a larger, well-packaged box to reduce the number of shipments and potentially save on shipping costs.
Ship separate standard-sized packages:
If your shipment contains several smaller boxes destined for different destinations, splitting a large shipment into several smaller boxes can help you avoid high-dimensional weight (DIM) and oversized package fees charged by carriers like SendWell Cargo Ltd, UPS or FedEx.
What is cargo insurance
Cargo insurance is a type of insurance custom that protects shippers, such as SendWell Cargo Ltd, and buyers from financial losses due to damage, theft, or loss of goods during transportation.
What it covers
Cargo insurance can cover a broad scope of threats, depending on the policy and the type of goods being shipped. The most commonly covered events include:
Accidents: vehicle collisions, fires, and damage during loading or unloading. Natural disasters: events such as shipwrecks, beaching’s, and adverse weather conditions.
Other risks: cargo abandonment, customs refusal, piracy, and acts of war.
Specific risks: Some policies cover risks such as contact with other objects or seawater.
What is the difference between FCL and LCL shipping
Full Container Load (FCL) shipping utilizes a full container exclusively for a single shipper, ensuring faster transit and substantially enhanced security for large shipments.
Less Container Load (LCL) shipping, on the other hand, consolidates smaller shipments from multiple shippers into a single container and one can get such services when using SendWell Cargo Ltd .
Full Container Load (FCL)
Illustration: A full container is intended for a single customer.
Ideal for: Large shipments that fill at least part of a container.
LCL (Less than Container Load)
Description: A container is filled with goods from multiple shippers, such as SendWell Cargo Ltd, with each shipper paying only for the space occupied by their goods.
Ideal for:
Small shipments that do not fill an entire container.
How much does it cost to consolidate shipments from China to Kenya
Consolidated LCL (Less Than Container Load) shipping from China to Kenya typically costs between $80 and $150 per cubic meter for ocean freight and can be significantly more expensive for air freight.
Alternatively, the cost for Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) services ranges from $13 to $20 per kilogram.
Factors that influence the cost
Shipping method:
Ocean freight (LCL): This is the most common and cost-effective method of consolidated shipping, calculated based on volume (per cubic meter).
Air freight: More expensive than ocean freight, but much faster, and calculated based on weight (per kg).
Volume and weight:
The cost of ocean LCL shipping is determined by the space occupied by the goods in a shared container, while air freight is based on the weight of the shipment.
How much is shipping per kilogram
Shipping costs per kilogram vary significantly depending on origin, destination, and transportation method. To get a precise price, you’ll need to provide discrete shipping information to a shipping company such as SendWell Cargo Ltd.
Factors Affecting Costs
Origin and Destination:
Distance, as well as the countries of origin and destination, significantly affect the price.
Shipping Method:
Air freight is faster but more expensive than ocean freight and are both offered by SendWell Cargo Ltd.
Package Characteristics:
The actual weight and the dimensional weight (based on dimensions) are used to calculate the cost; you pay the higher of the two.
How much customs duty will I pay in Kenya
Finished goods and consumer products are generally subject to a 25% import duty, which is the expected rate for many imports into Kenya. For example, electronic devices, furniture, or ready-made clothing are predominantly subject to an import duty of 25% of the customs value.
Import duty: 25% of the vehicle’s customs value (CIF). Excise duty: 20% of the CIF value + import duty. VAT: 16% of the CIF value + import duty + excise duty. Import Declaration Form (IDF): 2% of the CIF value.
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How much does air freight cost
Air freight costs vary considerably depending on the weight, dimensions, origin, and destination of the shipment. However, a standard rate can range between $15 and $20 per kilogram , with minimum fees often applying.
The actual cost is determined by a combination of billable weight (actual or volumetric weight, whichever is greater), distance, fuel price, surcharges, and service level. For a lethal quote, please contact a freight forwarder such as SendWell Cargo Ltd or use a freight calculator.
Key factors that affect costs
Dimensions and weight:
The overall physical dimensions (length, width, and height) and actual weight of the package are crucial.
Billable weight:
Most carriers rate based on either the actual weight or the dimensional weight (a volumetric calculation representing the space occupied by the package), whichever is greater.
How much does sea freight cost
Ocean freight costs vary considerably depending on the route, cargo weight and volume, container size, fuel costs, and market conditions.
Factors that affect sea freight costs
Distance and route:
Longer distances or less common routes typically sustain higher costs due to spiraled fuel consumption and logistical complexity.
Cargo weight and volume:
Shipping costs are imposed by the weight or volume of the cargo, with the price based on the greater of the two.
How much does cargo insurance cost
Cargo insurance typically costs between 0.3% and 2% of the insured value of the goods, with rates varying remarkably depending on the type of cargo, associated risks, mode of transportation, and route.
Factors that influence costs
Insured value:
The most important cost factor is the total value of the goods shipped.
Cargo type:
Valuable, fragile, or dangerous goods pose a greater risk and therefore require higher insurance premiums.
What is the cost of warehouse storage per month
Warehouse storage prices vary considerably, ranging from 20 KSh per day in Kenya for light goods to $1-$8 per square foot per month.
Factors that influence warehouse storage costs
Space required:
The more space the inventory occupies (measured in square feet, square meters, or cubic feet), the higher the cost.
Type of goods:
Storage of fragile or temperature-sensitive items (such as food or pharmaceuticals) requires specialized, climate-controlled facilities, which are more expensive.
What are the port handling fees in Mombasa
Dock handling costs in Mombasa vary considerably depending on the type of cargo, container size, and service provider, but generally include service fees, berthing fees, and terminal services.
Key elements Influencing Port steering Costs
Cargo Type:
Different types of freight, including general cargo, refrigerated containers, and specialized equipment, have varying handling fees.
Container Size:
Fees are often broken down by container size, such as for 20-foot or 40-foot containers.
What is the cost to clear customs
Customs clearance costs in Kenya vary significantly due to a fusion of taxes, duties, and surcharges, which are calculated based on the value and type of goods being imported.
Cost Factors
Product Type:
For example, electronic products and clothing may be subject to a different rate of duty than pharmaceutical products.
Customs Value (CIF):
This is the total cost, including the item price, as well as shipping and insurance.
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How much does express shipping cost
Express shipping costs vary greatly depending on the carrier, destination, and the weight and dimensions of the package. To obtain a valid quote, you can use online tools provided by carriers such as SendWell Cargo Ltd, DHL, FedEx, or UPS, and provide information about your shipment. Here’s why the cost varies and how to get a quote:
Service Provider:
Different companies, such as SendWell Cargo Ltd, DHL, FedEx, and UPS, have different pricing structures for express services.
Weight and Dimensions:
The weight and proportions of the package are important factors in determining the cost.
Origin and destination:
The distance between the origin and the destination has a significant impact on the price.
How long does shipping from China to Kenya take
Shipping from China to Kenya takes approximately 2-4 days via express, 3-7 days via air freight, and 3-4 weeks via sea freight. Sea freight can sometimes take 30-45 days or even longer.
The exact time depends on the shipping method, origin and destination ports, route, shipping company such as SendWell Cargo Ltd, and various factors, including port congestion and customs clearance.
Shipping Methods and Times
Express/Courier:
The fastest option is with direct door-to-door Delivery within 2-4 days.
Air Freight:
Faster than sea freight, with transit times typically between 3 and 7 days.
Sea Freight:
The slowest but most economical method for large volumes. Port-to-port shipping takes approximately 3-4 weeks, while door-to-door shipping can take 30-45 days.
How long does customs clearance take
Customs clearance can take anywhere from a few hours to several days or even weeks. Typically, for proactive shipments, the time required is one to two days. The time depends on factors such as the mode of transportation, the type of goods, the perfection of the conformations, and the need for additional information.
Factors that affect this time:
Documentation:
Ensure all required records are accurate and submitted on time to avoid delays.
Transportation method:
Air shipments can sometimes clear customs faster than ocean freight.
Additional inspections:
Goods flagged for customs inspection have longer processing times.
How long does sea freight take
Understanding these factors is crucial for productive planning and the timely Delivery of goods. Ocean freight delivery times vary significantly depending on several factors, including the route, mode of transportation, and seasonal fluctuations.
Ocean freight typically takes 20 to 45 days. The exact freightage time may vary depending on the ports of departure and arrival, the chosen shipping method (FCL or LCL), and any potential customs delays that may occur and its included in many of the services offered by SendWell Cargo Ltd.
How long does air freight take
Air freight is the fastest delivery option, with transit times ranging from a few hours for domestic shipments to one to three days for international deliveries. However, customs clearance, security checks, and cargo handling can lengthen the entire process.
Air freight is known for its speed and reliability. It is often the preferred solution for urgent shipments, valuable goods, or small shipments. Here’s what you need to know about air freight shipping times:
Typical times:
Air freight can transport goods worldwide in as little as one to three days for express services. Standard air freight typically takes five to seven days, depending on the course and any transitional stops, and is delivered by SendWell Cargo Ltd.
Key factors affecting shipping times:
Ideal Applications:
Companies that need to transport urgent or perishable goods, such as medical supplies, electronics, or fashion items for seasonal launches, often choose air freight from shipping companies such as SendWell Cargo Ltd.
How long does LCL shipping take
LCL (Less than Container Load) shipping takes 20 to 40 days, or even longer, depending on factors such as origin/destination, transportation times, and customs clearance.
Delivery times are 3 to 5 days for pickup and consolidation, 10 to 25 days for ocean freight, and 3 to 7 days for deconsolidation and Delivery and it is offered by SendWell Cargo Ltd.
Here’s an overview of the typical LCL shipping process:
Pickup and consolidation (3-5 days): The goods are picked up and transported to a consolidation warehouse, where they are loaded into a container with other shipments.
Ocean freight (10-25 days): The consolidated container is transported by sea to the designated port of destination.
Deconsolidation and Delivery (3-7 days): At the destination port, the container is deconsolidated, and the goods are delivered.
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How long does FCL shipping take
Full Container Load (FCL) ocean freight typically takes 20-45 days to complete. Still, transit times can vary significantly depending on the origin and target ports, as well as external factors such as weather, port crowding, and customs procedures.
Although FCL (Full Container Load) shipping is swifter than LCL (Less Than Container Load) delivery because it avoids additional handling at LCL hubs, delays can still occur during customs clearance and due to large shipment volumes.
Factors Affecting FCL Transit Times
Route:
The distance and route between ports are the most critical factors in determining the duration of the shipment.
How long does cargo consolidation take
Consolidation is not limited to a specific timeframe; transit times can extend to weeks or even months, depending on waiting for other shipments to fill a container.
Factors that influence consolidation times
Waiting time for container space:
This is the primary cause of delays, as a shipper like SendWell Cargo Ltd must wait for a sufficient number of smaller shipments to fill a container before it departs.
Origin and destination:
The interval between the origin and target points, as well as specific logistics networks and the frequency of departures, determine the total transit time.
How long does it take to get a shipping quote
The time it takes to receive a shipping quote can vary from seconds to minutes for instant online quotes. In contrast, quotes for complex and customized freight forwarding or shipping services can take hours, days, or even longer, depending on the company such as SendWell Cargo Ltd and the information requested.
Instant Online Quotes
How it works:
Many carriers and freight forwarders, such as SendWell Cargo Ltd, offer online tools that allow you to enter your shipment information (origin, destination, weight, and dimensions) to receive an instant quote.
Standard/Custom Quotes
How it works:
For more complex or bulky goods, you may need to contact a freight forwarder or use a more detailed online calculator.
How long does it take to pay customs duty
Customs consent typically takes one to two days, the goods are shipped in accordance with all import regulations and all required documents and information are submitted correctly. Otherwise, delays may occur.
Import duties are paid at the appointed banks or through the mobile banking platform after generating an electronic payment slip. Banks are located within the terminals.
How long does cargo insurance coverage last
The duration of cargo insurance depends on the policy terms, as specified on the commercial invoice or letter of credit, and generally covers the goods from the point of origin (e.g., warehouse, factory) to the final destination (e.g., warehouse, port).
Key factors determining the duration of coverage:
Terms of sale:
The specific terms used in the commercial transaction, such as “FOB,” “warehouse-to-warehouse,” or “door-to-door,” determine the start and end dates of insurance coverage.
Point of origin:
Coverage begins when the goods begin transporting, which may be from a factory, warehouse, or other point of origin.
Point of destination:
Coverage ends upon Delivery of the goods to their final destination, as specified in the terms of sale and the policy.
Why is my shipment delayed
Your shipment may be delayed due to adverse weather conditions, customs issues, carrier capacity constraints.
Customs and Documentation:
Worldwide shipments may be delayed due to customs inspections, incomplete or incorrect documentation, or regulatory changes.
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Why is customs clearance taking so long
Customs clearance takes too long due to issues such as missing or incorrect documentation, unpaid duties and taxes, port congestion during peak periods, understaffing at customs facilities, or technical issues.
In some cases, specific goods may require additional inspections from other regulatory bodies, which can further lengthen the process.
Incorrect information: Incorrect product descriptions, incorrect tariff codes, or incorrect goods values can cause delays.
Why is shipping so expensive
Ocean freight is expensive due to high operating costs, including rising fuel, labor, and insurance prices. Other factors, such as high demand for goods, supply chain disruptions, port congestion, distance, and infrastructure issues, also contribute to the cost. Shipping companies, like SendWell Cargo Ltd, pass these costs on to consumers in the form of higher tariffs.
Here’s a summary of the contributing factors:
Operating and infrastructure costs
Fuel costs:
Fuel prices represent a significant portion of a carrier’s operating costs.
Labor costs:
Salaries for truck drivers, dockworkers, and other maritime industry employees have increased.
Why is consolidation cheaper than separate shipments
Consolidation is more cost-effective than split shipments because it combines multiple small shipments into a single shipment. This allows for more efficient use of container space and reduces overall transportation, administration, and handling costs.
Main reasons for savings:
Efficient use of space:
Rather than paying for partially filled containers for each shipment, merging maximizes the space used in a single container or vehicle, reducing the cost per unit of goods shipped.
Shared transportation costs:
Multiple shippers share transportation costs, such as fuel, labor, and vessel or vehicle rental, spreading them across a larger volume of goods.
Why is port congestion common in Kenya
Port congestion in Kenya is common due to increased cargo volumes overloading limited infrastructure, slow repatriation of empty containers causing delays, and coordination problems between port authorities, shipping lines, and carriers.
Factors contributing to port congestion in Kenya:
Increasing cargo volumes:
Post-pandemic recovery and strong demand for goods have led to record container volumes exceeding the current capacity of ports like Mombasa. Limited infrastructure and capacity:
Ports often face physical space constraints, resulting in overcrowded storage areas and bottlenecks, particularly during the handling of containers and other cargo.
Why is tracking not updating
Tracking may not update due to incorrect tracking numbers, scanning delays, carrier system issues, or missed scans. Other causes include high collection volumes, drastic weather, global customs delays, and damaged labels or packaging. Patience is often required, but if you haven’t received updates for several days.
Recurrent reasons for tracing issues:
Incorrect tracking reference number:
Verify that the number entered is correct and matches the one provided by the carrier or freight forwarder.
Missed scans:
Packages may not be scanned at every sorting center or checkpoint, especially with automated systems or during peak periods.
Why is LCL shipping slower than FCL
LCL (Less Than Container Load) shipping is slower than FCL (Full Container Load) shipping because additional processing steps are required at both the origin and destination to consolidate and deconsolidate goods from multiple shippers, which significantly extends transit times.
Here’s why LCL shipping is slower:
Consolidation and Deconsolidation:
With LCL shipping, goods are consolidated with other shipments in a single container. This requires time at the port of loading to sort and pack the goods with other shipments (consolidation) and additional time at the destination to unload and sort each shipment for its owner (deconsolidation).
More Handling:
Because LCL shipments involve multiple shippers, the manual handling, loading, and unloading of goods are more labor-intensive than with FCL shipments, where the container is treated as a single unit.
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Why do customs reject my shipment
Your shipment has likely been rejected by customs due to incomplete or incorrect documentation, misclassification of goods, incorrect declaration of value or country of origin, or failure to comply with the regulations of the Partner Government Agency (PGA).
Common Reasons for Rejection
Incomplete or Incorrect Validation:
Missing, incorrect, or vague information on the commercial invoice, packing list, or other required documentation may result in rejection.
Misclassified Goods:
Misclassifying goods according to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) may result in duties and taxes being imposed on the shipment, as this can influence your charges and taxes.
Why is documentation necessary for shipping
Testimonial is important for shipment because it serves as a legalized document, tracks the movement of goods, and protects against delays, penalties, and liability. These reports contain vital information about the description, origin, and value of the freight, enabling smooth transit and dispute resolution.
Key reasons why documentation is necessary:
Customs:
Universal shipments require a formal declaration and other documentation to comply with each country’s import and export regulations, thereby avoiding delays and penalties.
Which shipping method is cheaper
The cheapest shipping method depends on your location and specific needs; however, slower postal/ground shipping is generally more cost-effective than air or express services.
For small packages to Kenya, SendWell Cargo Ltd is the most cost-effective option. For international shipments, SendWell Cargo Ltd, USPS First Class Mail International, or GlobalPost Economy are the best options for lighter packages.
Factors that affect shipment costs
Distance: Longer distances are generally more expensive to ship.
Weight and size: Heavier or larger packages are more expensive.
Speed: Expedited delivery services are more expensive than slower ones.
Service type: Postal services are often cheaper for small items than courier services.
Which freight forwarder should I use
When choosing the absolute freight forwarder such as SendWell Cargo Ltd, consider their experience in your origin and destination countries, the type of goods you ship (air, sea, or land), their technology and real-time tracking capabilities, the responsiveness of their customer service, relevant certifications, and compliance with international shipping regulations.
Key Factors to Consider
Specialization and Expertise:
Choose a cargo forwarder with experience, such as SendWell Cargo Ltd, in your origin and destination countries, and expertise in your desired mode of transportation (air, sea, or land).
Services Offered:
Ensure they offer the specific amenities you require, including customs clearance, cargo insurance, warehousing, and document management.
Which is faster: air freight or sea freight
Air cargo is significantly faster than sea freight. While air shipments can arrive in a few days (1 to 7 days), ocean freight can take several weeks or even months, depending on the distance and they are both done by SendWell Cargo Ltd.
Air Freight
Delivery time: Typically 1-7 days.
Ideal for: Time-sensitive goods such as perishables, pharmaceuticals, and urgent documents.
Why it’s fast: Air freight is the quickest way to transport goods, far exceeding ocean freight.
Ocean Freight
Delivery time: Can range from 20 to 45 days or more, often expressed in weeks or months.
Ideal for: Heavy equipment, large machinery, and bulk goods where speed is not a priority.
Why it’s slower: Freighters travel much slower than airplanes, with a typical cruising speed of 16 to 25 knots (about 18 to 29 mph).
Which ports are best for imports in Kenya
The Port of Mombasa is Kenya’s main import port. It handles over 70% of vehicle imports and serves as the region’s primary international gateway for trade. It is the largest and busiest port in East Africa, serving as a crucial unloading point for goods destined for Kenya and neighboring landlocked countries, including Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi.
Why Mombasa Port is the best:
Main port of entry:
It is Kenya’s only international seaport and serves as a central hub for East Africa’s import and export trade.
Modern infrastructure:
The port is a modern facility with ample cargo capacity, handles a significant number of containers, and has specialized terminals for petroleum and grains.
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Which is better: LCL or FCL
Neither FCL nor LCL is inherently better; the alternative depends on your distinct needs and requirements. Full Container Load (FCL) is best suited for large, valuable, and urgent shipments that require a high level of security.
At the same time, Less than Container Load (LCL) is more cost-effective for smaller volumes and offers greater flexibility for smaller quantities. Essential factors to consider include the volume of goods, budget constraints, the urgency of the shipment, and the level of security required.
Choose FCL if:
Have large shipment:
You have ample goods to fill an entire container.
You are urgent:
FCL generally offers faster transit times because the goods are transported straight to their destination without additional handling.
Choose LCL if:
You have a small shipment: You only need to ship a small quantity of goods that doesn’t fill an entire container.
Your forecast is an essential factor to consider: LCL is often a more economical option for small shipments.
Which documents are required for customs
For customs clearance, essential documents include the commercial account, packing slip, and bill of lading or air waybill, as well as a certificate of origin and any necessary import/export permits.
Specific catalogues may also be required, such as an Import Declaration Form (IDF) in Kenya, food health certificates, or certificates of conformity for certain goods, depending on the goods and the destination country.
Widely used Deeds
Commercial Invoice:
An itemized sales invoice specifying the value, quantity, and description of the goods is often used to calculate customs duties.
Packing List:
Lists the contents of the shipment, including weight, dimensions, and type of packaging.
Which shipping insurance covers all risks
Comprehensive freight insurance, specifically “A” insurance from the Institute Cargo Clauses (ICC), provides the most comprehensive protection against loss or physical damage to goods during transportation, covering virtually all risks except for specific exclusions, such as war, strikes, or hidden defects.
What does comprehensive freight insurance cover?
Comprehensive protection: Covers “all risks” of loss or damage, meaning it protects against virtually any unforeseen event that could affect the shipment.
Accidents: Includes coverage for damage resulting from accidents during transportation.
Natural disasters: Protects against risks such as storms, floods, and other natural disasters.
Which countries allow duty-free imports
No country offers complete duty-free treatment for all imports, but many do offer it for specific goods under certain conditions, such as goods imported or re-exported through free zones. Trade agreements allow certain products (such as those from least-developed countries) to enter the market duty-free.
Duty-free import scenarios
Free zones:
Some countries have free zones where goods can be imported without taxes or customs duties, but generally must be re-exported.
Trade agreements:
Some principalities participate in trade agreements that provide duty-free access to products from certain countries, particularly developing countries, such as those covered by the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
Which consolidators ship from China to Kenya
Groupage companies shipping from China to Kenya include SendWell Cargo Ltd, Air Cargo Global Kenya, Sheffield Cargo Logistics, Cargo From China (CFC), Basenton Logistics, Globe flight, and other shipping companies that handle less-than-container-load (LCL) shipments, the essence of consolidation.
These corporations federate small shipments into a single container, offering a convenient option for businesses and individuals to import goods.
Consolidators for China and Kenya
SendWell Cargo Ltd:
Specializing in consolidated ocean freight, it offers all-inclusive services for commercial freight and large online purchases.
Sheffield Cargo Logistics:
Offers less-than-container-load (LCL) shipping and freight consolidation services, with weekly LCL shipments from China to Kenya.
Which logistics company is most reliable
There is no “most reliable” logistics company, as reliability depends on the type of logistics service requested (e.g., local or international, air or ocean freight) and the region.
For comprehensive regional and global logistics in Kenya, companies such as SendWell Cargo Ltd, Fastline Express, Kuehne + Nagel (formerly Kuhn + Nagel), DHL, UPS, and TNT Express are well-established. For local deliveries and e-commerce, Smartbox Courier is known for its efficient and affordable solutions in Kenya.
To find the most reliable company such as SendWell Cargo Ltd for your needs:
Define your needs:
What type of items are you shipping?
What is the volume and weight?
Are you shipping locally or internationally?
What is your budget?
View reviews and ratings:
Platforms such as GoodFirms and Clutch.co offer rankings and ratings of logistics companies in Kenya.
Do I need a freight forwarder
You may need a freight forwarder, such as SendWell Cargo Ltd, for complex international shipments, especially if you lack experience with customs, global regulations, or logistics.
While you can handle the logistics yourself, a freight forwarder saves you time and money, handles complex documentation and customs formalities, gives you access to a network of couriers, and offers expert advice on everything from wrapping to routing.
When to consider a cargo forwarder:
Lack of prowess:
If you’re unfamiliar with the intricacies of international shipping, documentation, and regulations, consulting a freight forwarder like SendWell Cargo Ltd is essential.
Do I need cargo insurance
Yes, you probably need cargo insurance, as it shields you from financial losses resulting from the loss or damage of goods during transportation, especially since carriers have limited liability.
Why is cargo insurance necessary?
Carrier restrictions:
Carriers often have limited liability that may not cover the full value of the goods.
Financial protection:
Protects profits and reputation by providing financial protection against unexpected supply chain disruptions and losses.
Do I need an import license in Kenya
Yes, an import permit or license may be required for certain goods in Kenya, including items related to health, environment, and safety, such as pharmaceuticals, animals, plants, and fish.
When is an import permit or license required?
A specific import permit may be required if you are importing:
Pharmaceuticals:
An import permit, issued by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) and processed by KESWS, is required.
Animals, plants, seeds, and fish: Imports are subject to quarantine regulations, and permits are issued by specific agencies, such as the Kenya Fisheries Service (KeFS) for fish and fish products.
Other imports related to health, the environment, or safety may require a general import license.
Do I need to pay VAT on imports
Example: If you import electronic products with a CIF (cost, insurance, and freight) value of KES 1,000,000, you pay 16% VAT on the total value, or KES 160,000.
VAT is also levied on goods imported into the country. VAT is considered an indirect tax because the seller is the taxable person in a transaction, responsible for declaring and remitting the VAT to the BIR.
The Harmonized System of Tariffs and Trade (HS), also known as the import tax, customs duty, or standard tariff on imports of the United States, is the primary duty applied to all commercial and personal shipments. This duty applies to all shipments, regardless of value, except for genuine gifts valued at $100 or less in value.
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Do I need a customs broker
A customs broker is not always necessary, but it is highly recommended, especially for businesses. Commissioning a customs broker can save you time and money by ensuring compliance with complex regulations, minimizing penalties and delays, and providing expert advice on tariff classifications and trade agreements.
When to consider a customs broker:
You are new to international trade:
Navigating customs regulations can be challenging for those new to international trade.
Your shipments are complex:
They may include shipments containing multiple items, hazardous materials, or specialized products such as pharmaceuticals or food.
Do I need a warehouse for consolidated shipments
Yes, a warehouse, often referred to as a consolidation center, is typically required for consolidated shipments. It serves as a central hub where smaller shipments are received, sorted, and combined into a larger full load before being transported.
Why is a consolidation warehouse necessary?
Receiving and sorting:
It serves as a central point where numerous small shipments from different couriers are received and inspected.
Cost reduction:
By consolidating multiple small shipments into a single larger load, you can significantly reduce your overall shipping costs.
Do I need to track shipments online
Yes, online shipment tracking is essential. It improves customer satisfaction by providing greater visibility and reduces the number of support requests, enabling proactive problem resolution and increasing trust in the company(SendWell Cargo Ltd)
Benefits of online shipment tracking
Increased customer satisfaction:
Tracking enables customers to track the progress of their package, alleviating anxiety and fostering trust in the company (SendWell Cargo Ltd).
Do I need special packaging for shipments
Yes, exceptional wrapping is required for items that require exceptional handling, such as hazardous materials, perishable goods, or fragile products, to ensure their safe transportation and compliance with regulations. SendWell Cargo Ltd offers this service.
When excellent coverage is required:
Biodegradable goods:
Live animals, food, and plants must be wrapped up to prevent decomposition and loss, which often involves additional costs and special handling.
Fragile items:
Fragile items require sturdier packaging with sufficient padding to absorb shock and prevent breakage.
Do I need to label goods for customs
Yes, you often need to label goods for customs, as specific docket and marking requirements apply depending on the type of goods and the countries involved.
Extensive labeling requirements:
Product information:
Some products, including foods and pharmaceuticals, require specific information, such as batch numbers, assembly dates, and expiration dates.
Safety Warnings:
Products such as toys and children’s items often require clearly visible, permanently posted warnings about choking hazards.
Do I need to consolidate shipments to save money
Yes, merging deliveries is a highly effective money-saving strategy that combines smaller shipments in a larger, more inventive carriage.
How merging saves you money
Reduced Logistics Effort:
Using a third-party logistics provider (3PL) can streamline the process and save you time and effort when managing multiple shipments.