Can Alibaba ship to Kenya? Yes — and here’s how. Learn the best shipping options, from air freight to sea cargo, with insider tips to save costs, avoid scams, and ensure smooth delivery.
What is Alibaba’s shipping process to Kenya
Here’s a step by step guide to efficiently purchasing items on Alibaba in Kenya.
Step 1: Create an Alibaba Kenya account.
First, go to Alibaba.com and create a free account. You’ll need to provide basic information, such as your name, email address, nationality, and mobile number. Indicate your buyer role and complete the registration.
Step 2: Search for products.
Use the search bar to find the items you want to purchase. Entering specific keywords will speed up the search process. You can also use the supplier page to find sellers specializing in the products you’re interested in.
Step 3: Compare prices and assess the quality of the item.
Evaluate prices from different sellers. Before making a final decision, inspect client reviews and confirm the originality of the items to ensure you’re getting what you expect.
Its crucial to note that Alibaba has a minimum order amount, which is the smallest amount that can be ordered. This feature is primarily intended for wholesalers who purchase goods in bulk.
Step 4: Place an order.
After selecting a seller, click Add to Cart. Products with the Ready to Ship status are immediately available for purchase and include a Start Order button.
Step 5: Enter your shipping address.
Enter your desired shipping address.
Alibaba offers an advanced shipping method for shipping items from China to Kenya. For faster delivery, you can utilize Alibaba’s specialized couriers like SendWell SendWell Cargo Ltd for shipments to Kenya.
What shipping methods does Alibaba support for Kenya
Alibaba offers two shipping methods: online and offline.
The advantage of online shipping with Alibaba is convenience. You can order directly from the platform, and the process is simple. With SendWell Cargo Ltd, we deliver for you.
The advantage of offline shipping is its low price, multiple distribution channels, and the ability to ship sensitive/dangerous items at a low cost.
Shipping methods vary depending on cost. To help you choose the best shipping method, we’ve provided a comparison table of shipping costs to Kenya for different weight categories.
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What documentation is required to ship from Alibaba to Kenya
A courier like SendWell Cargo Ltd issues a bill of lading to prove receipt of the goods to be shipped. The airway bill is the receipt given by the airline. If you haven’t yet paid your supplier, they may withhold this bill of lading until full payment is received. In this case, you won’t be able to clear the goods through customs.
SendWell Cargo Ltd is the best courier company because it’s a freight forwarder that requires this bill of lading to complete customs clearance.
What is the difference between FCL and LCL shipping from Alibaba to Kenya
LCL allows importers like SendWell Cargo Ltd to ship small quantities of goods whose volume does not justify FCL shipping. This means that the shipment is combined with other shipments bound for the same destination.
Unlike FCL, which generally charges a flat rate per container, LCL is calculated based on volume, expressed in cubic meters. LCL shipping is a low cost solution for small shipments because you only pay for the volume used.
Furthermore, it is almost always cheaper than air freight.
Regarding FCL, the three most common container sizes are. Most companies like SendWell Cargo Ltd importing from China are primarily interested in these three standard sizes, which account for the majority of container volume shipped worldwide.
What does DDP mean when shipping from Alibaba to Kenya
Delivered Duty Paid is a delivery method in which the seller assumes all risks and costs related to shipping the commodities to their destination. DDP is primarily used for international shipments and is a widely recognized shipping method developed by the International Chamber of Commerce. This method helps standardize shipping options worldwide.
Many companies like SendWell Cargo Ltd use DDP only for air or ocean freight. Buyers benefit greatly from DDP because they assume less risk, liability, and cost. While DDP is beneficial for the buyer, it can pose a significant burden to the seller, as it can quickly erode profits if not appropriately handled.
What are the compliance standards (e.g., PVoC) for Kenya imports
Kenya’s PVoC ensures that goods meet mandatory safety, quality, and security requirements, facilitates international trade, prevents customs delays, and reduces potential losses associated with the import of non-compliant products.
The key elements of a PVoC are
Physical inspection before shipment.
Sampling, testing, and analysis in accredited laboratories.
Production process audits.
Documentary verification of regulatory compliance.
Assessment of compliance with Kenyan standards.
What is Alibaba’s Trade Assurance and how does it apply to Kenya shipments
Trade Assurance is a free service from Alibaba.com, designed to build trust between buyers and suppliers. It offers coverage in the event of a shipping or quality dispute.
You are covered if
Your products are not shipped within the timeframe stipulated in the supplier contract.
Your commodities do not meet the quality standards agreed upon with the supplier.
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What is the role of freight forwarders when shipping from Alibaba to Kenya
ROLE OF EXPORTERS IN THE SHIPPING PROCESS.
Forwarding agents, such as SendWell Cargo Ltd play a vital role in international transportation, acting as essential intermediaries between freight forwarders and various transit services.
Their role in facilitating shipments from China to Kenya which includes a full range of services designed to streamline cross border logistics.
Each of these services plays a vital role in streamlining the shipping process, making freight forwarders indispensable for companies wishing to navigate the complexities of international trade efficiently.
What costs are included in CIF for shipping to Kenya
What is CIF in ocean freight? CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) is one of the 11 Incoterms laws established by the International Chamber of Commerce. It is an international transportation agreement that reflects the costs incurred by the seller to cover the shipping, insurance, and transportation of the buyer’s order during transit.
The agreement follows the same procedure as the Incoterms Cost and Freight (CFR), but the seller must also purchase insurance in case of loss or damage to the goods during transportation.
Once the goods arrive at the buyer’s designated port of destination, the buyer assumes the costs and responsibilities associated with unloading and delivering the shipment to its final destination.
What customs duties and taxes apply when importing from Alibaba to Kenya
Customs duties
Depending on the imported item, customs duties range from 0% to 25%, in accordance with the Common External Tariff (CET) of the East African Community. However, sensitive items are subject to customs duties exceeding 25%. Sensitive commodities are listed in Annex 2 of the Common External Tariff (CET) of the East African Community.
How much does sea freight from Alibaba to Kenya cost per cubic meter
Freight shipping cost from China to Kenya. Use the current rates: LCL at $95/m³, FCL at $1,600-$1,900, and air freight at $5.70/kg per kilogram. Always check your account weekly for any changes or updates, including new surcharges.
Consider seasonal fluctuations.
Build in a 10-15% surcharge for fuel, handling, or other unexpected costs, as imports are expected to resume after the summer.
Request detailed quotes.
Ask your freight forwarder for thorough quotes, including ground freight, port charges, and all surcharges, for complete transparency.
How much does air freight from Alibaba
Shipping costs on Alibaba are displayed by suppliers on the platform. They offer various shipping options and negotiate prices based on your specific needs.
Several factors significantly influence Alibaba’s shipping prices.
Destination.
Shipping costs increase proportionally to the distance between the supplier and the intended destination.
This directly translates into higher shipping costs to the United States than to China, due to the greater geographical distance.
Type of Goods.
The dimensional weight (measured by multiplying the length, width and height) of the goods significantly affects shipping costs. Larger or heavier items will inevitably incur higher shipping costs on Alibaba due to the greater space they occupy on board the ship or plane.
The declared value of the goods can also affect shipping costs, as some carriers may apply additional charges for valuable items.
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How much time does sea shipping take from Alibaba to Kenya
Details on Alibaba’s four most common shipping methods
Different logistics processes can significantly affect transit times and shipping costs. Therefore, it’s essential to determine the most cost-effective shipping method.
If your order is shipped by air, delivery times from Alibaba will range between 3 and 10 business days. If you ship by sea, delivery times from Alibaba can vary from 30 to 45 days.
How much does express courier cost from Alibaba to Kenya
Generally, items weighing 90 kg or less are shipped by air. The average shipping cost from Alibaba ranges from $6 to $15 per pound. This shipping method is more expensive, but if you choose shipping between the UK and Kenya, shipping costs within Kenya are more affordable.
Heavier items can be shipped by air or sea.
This method is convenient, but can also be complex. If it’s a standard product, you may be eligible for a discount (or even free shipping) on shipping from the UK to Kenya.
How much are customs duties and VAT when importing from Alibaba
Upon arrival at the port of Mombasa, import duties must be paid before they can be collected.
These include
Import duties.
Depending on the type of goods.
VAT
16% of the value.
Import Declaration Fee (IDF).
2.25% of the value.
Railway Development Levy (RDL).
1.5%
Sometimes, excise duties are imposed on products that are subject to regulation.
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) does not always use the declared value; it may calculate its own value using International Commodity Classification Codes (HS), which may be higher.
How much does documentation and handling fees cost
Documentation and handling fees for importing goods into Kenya via SendWell Cargo Ltd can differ depending on the kind of document, the services provided, and the freight forwarder used.
Here are some estimates
Import Declaration Fee (IDF).
2.5% of the customs value of the imported goods, with a maximum of KES 200,000 (approximately USD 1,800).
Customs fees.
Approximately KES 5,000-10,000 (approximately USD 50-100) per set of documents.
Handling fees.
May include the costs of handling, storage, and transportation of the goods. These rates can range from KES 10,000 to KES 50,000 (approximately USD 100-500), or even more, depending on the type and volume of the goods.
Shipping
These services may charge a flat rate, ranging from KES 20,000 to KES 100,000 (approximately USD 200-1,000), or even more, depending on the complexity of the shipment and the services requested.
How much can shipping costs vary based on weight and volume
Shipping rates via SendWell Cargo Ltd can differ significantly depending on the weight and volume of the goods.
Here’s an overview
Weight based rates.
For air freight, rates can range from USD 4 to USD 8 per kilogram, depending on the route and type of goods being shipped.
Volume based rates.
For sea freight, rates can range from USD 50 to USD 200 per cubic meter, depending on the route, container size, and type of goods being shipped.
Container shipping.
For full container load (FCL) shipments, the cost can range from $3,000 to $5,000, or even more, per container, depending on the route, container size, and the type of cargo being shipped.
Less than truckload (LCL) shipments.
For smaller shipments, the cost can range from $2 to $5 per kilogram, or even more, depending on the route, weight, and volume of the cargo.
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How much do freight forwarder services cost for Kenya imports
In Kenya, freight shipping costs via SendWell Cargo Ltd can range from 0.2% to 1% of the CIF (cost, insurance, and freight) value of the goods.
Here’s an overview of the applicable rates
Kenya Post rates
Goods with a CIF value up to Ksh20 million (CIF).
0.4% of the CIF value for ocean freight and 0.2% for air freight.
Goods with a CIF value over Ksh20 million (CIF).
0.2% of the CIF value for both ocean and air freight.
Private freight forwarders.
They may apply similar CIF rates, but with additional costs for services such as road freight, warehousing, or expedited customs clearance.
They may offer shorter customs clearance times (2 to 3 days) than Kenya Post (3 to 7 days for ocean freight and 1 to 3 days for air freight).
How much do express shipping options (DHL, FedEx, UPS) cost
Express shipping is faster and more expensive than expedited shipping. Express shipping (also known as overnight shipping) is usually delivered within one to two days. Expedited shipping typically takes an additional two to three days.
How much does insurance for Alibaba shipments to Kenya cost
Insurance costs for Alibaba shipments to Kenya vary depending on the value and type of shipment.
Here’s a rough estimate
Insurance calculation.
Insurance costs can be estimated between 0.1% and 0.3% of the shipment value, plus 10% of the value for coverage. For example, if the shipment is worth $10,000, the insurance cost would be approximately $10-30 (0.1% to 0.3% of $10,000) plus $1,000 (10% of $10,000).
Typical costs.
Some shipping companies like SendWell Cargo Ltd charge between $50 and $100 for shipping insurance, which typically covers the value of the goods against damage or loss during transportation.
Factors that affect cost.
Insurance costs can also depend on the shipping method, package weight, and dimensions. For example, air freight is generally more expensive than ocean freight.
How long does it take to ship via sea from Alibaba to Kenya
At the midpoint, it takes 30 to 45 days to ship these products from China to Kenya via sea, as listed on Alibaba.com. For some medical equipment or machinery, it can sometimes take up to two months to receive. Therefore, buyers are advised to allow 30 to 60 days for ocean freight before choosing this option.
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How long does air shipping take from Alibaba to Kenya
If your order is shipped by air, delivery times from Alibaba typically range from 3 to 10 business days. If you ship by ocean freight, delivery times from Alibaba can vary from 30 to 45 days. Now I’ll discuss the four most common shipping methods. They’re a great way to reduce shipping costs from Alibaba.
How long does express courier take from Alibaba to Kenya
1 to 3 Day Guarantee1 and Flat Rate2
Priority Mail Express offers 1 to 3 day delivery before 6:00 PM with a money-back guarantee.1 Enjoy competitive prices and fast delivery every day of the year, with some exceptions, to most addresses and PO Boxes in Kenya .3 With Priority Mail Express’s flat rate, you can ship packages up to 31 kg to any state at the same rate. Send your mail from post offices or online from your home or business.
How long does customs clearance take in Kenya
It takes an average of two (2) hours from receipt of Mombasa Port Release Orders (MPRO) and customs declarations by customs until the invoice is issued to the customer. Invoices are sent to the freight department every 30 minutes, and the customer can pick up the shipment within five (5) hours.
How long does document processing (IDF, PVoC) take
Processing times for Import Declaration Forms (IDFs) and Pre Export Compliance Documents (PVoCs) in Kenya via SendWell Cargo Ltd may vary depending on several factors.
IDF Processing Times.
It is recommended to submit the documents at least 7 days prior to the vessel’s arrival in Mombasa to avoid delays.
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) processes the IDFs, and once validated, the importer can proceed with inspection and shipment.
PVoC Processing Times.
For Uganda and Tanzania, PVoC certificates can be obtained within 48 hours of issuing the commercial invoice.
For Kenya, the importer must provide the IDF to the exporter. Producing times may differ depending on the workload of the inspection body.
KEBS evaluates and issues PVoC exemption certificates to qualified entities.
How long should I allow for door-to-door delivery from Alibaba
Alibaba’s home delivery times vary greatly depending on the shipping method, supplier, processing times and destination.
Here is a review of what you can expect.
Air freight.
5 to 10 days, suitable for medium sized shipments or urgent goods. Air freight rates range from $4 to $8 per kilogram, offering a good balance between speed and cost.
Ocean freight.
25 to 45 days, with lower prices for large orders. SendWell Cargo Ltd Ocean freight costs vary depending on the volume and weight of the shipment, with FCL (full container load) options ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 per container and LCL (less than container load) options ranging from $2 to $2.50 per kilo.
Rail freight.
18 to 30 days, a good option for medium sized goods or shipments to non border countries. Rail freight costs vary depending on the route and volume; however, it is generally faster and less expensive than ocean freight and air freight.
How long before my Alibaba supplier ships the goods
Alibaba’s delivery times depend on several factors, including the shipping method, supplier processing times and the destination.
Shipping methods and estimated times
Express shipping.
3 to 5 days, ideal for urgent shipments, but more expensive.
Air freight.
7 to 12 days, a balance between speed and cost, suitable for medium-weight goods or tight deadlines.
Sea freight.
20 to 40 days for standard shipments, 30 to 60 days for consolidated orders, and the most economical solution for large volumes.
Supplier processing times.
They can vary from a few days to many weeks, depending on the product type, order quantity, and supplier efficiency.
Verify delivery times and production schedules with the supplier like SendWell Cargo Ltd before placing an order.
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How long does it take freight forwarders to consolidate LCL shipments
LCL shipping typically takes 15 to 50 days via SendWell Cargo Ltd , but transit times vary depending on the interval between the origin and destination points, as well as consolidation times. If you want your goods delivered to their destination,
How long does transit tracking usually update
SendWell Cargo Ltd typically updates shipment status within 24 to 48 hours. Keep your tracking information handy to track your package. To understand how frequently SendWell Cargo Ltd tracking is updated, let’s look at how SendWell Cargo Ltd tracking works.
SendWell Cargo Ltd provides a tracking number for each shipment. This number is located on the SendWell Cargo Ltd label and is updated with each scan. Tracking enables the recipient to stay informed about the shipment’s progress.
Although SendWell Cargo Ltd shipment tracking is updated every time the package arrives at a new delivery point or is loaded onto a truck, it is not possible to track it in real-time, unlike with other carriers. If the package travels a long distance, it will make more stops and will be updated more frequently.
How long can delays in peak season shipping take
Shipping delays during peak season can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the type of goods, the shipping route and the transportation method.
Delays by the shipping method
Air freight.
Delays can range from a few days to a week or more, especially for perishable goods like flowers, which have a limited shelf life. Flower exports from Kenya, for example, have experienced delays of up to 45 tons of goods due to restricted air freight capacity.
Sea freight.
Delays can be more significant, with waiting times of 10 to 15 days, or even longer in some cases. For example, ships calling at the port of Algiers can wait up to five days for a docking, while vessels in the port of Conakry can wait about five days due to traffic jams.
Land freight.
Delays can occur due to traffic jams, road conditions, or customs clearance issues. These delays can range from a few hours to several days.
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Why is sea freight cheaper than air freight for Alibaba to Kenya
Air Cargo is generally more expensive due to its speed and efficiency. Sea freight takes 20 to 40 days, while air freight takes 3 to 7 days.
Sea freight generally offers longer transit times than air freight, but is often preferred due to its lower costs and compatibility with the long-distance transport of non perishable goods.
Why is PVoC (Pre-shipment Verification of Conformity) applied on Kenya imports
The Kenyan PSC ensures that goods meet mandatory safety, quality, and security requirements, facilitates international trade, prevents customs delays, and reduces potential losses associated with the import of non-compliant products.
The key elements of a PSC are
Physical inspection before shipment.
Sampling, testing, and analysis in accredited laboratories.
Audits of manufacturing processes.
Documentary verification of regulatory compliance.
Kenyan Standards Compliance Assessment.
Why is express courier more expensive from Alibaba
Alibaba’s shipping costs often appear high because the company partners with freight forwarders, which add handling fees ranging from approximately 2% to 5%. To save money, consider working directly with a carrier like SendWell Cargo Ltd to avoid these additional costs.
I still remember my first order with Alibaba, the anticipation was high, but the surprise of the shipping costs was also huge. While it’s clear that freight forwarders contribute to these costs, that’s not the whole story.
Why do shipping costs fluctuate
Freight rates fluctuate based on market demand, fuel costs, global events and the availability of carrier capacity. Understanding these factors enables forwarding agents and shippers like SendWell Cargo Ltd to handle price fluctuations effectively.
SendWell Cargo Ltd can manage rate fluctuations with rate management tools, build relationships with many carriers and consolidate shipments to optimize costs.
Platforms like SendWell Cargo Ltd provide solutions for obtaining rates, tracking shipments, and generating quotes, enabling freight forwarders to streamline their operations and effectively manage rate fluctuations.
Why do some Alibaba suppliers require minimum order quantities
Wholesalers and manufacturers have minimum order quantity policies to ensure profitability for each order.
Typically, the more you produce, the lower your costs. This is due to production components, such as labor, raw materials, and physical capital costs, which decrease as the company grows. For example, manufacturers could lose money by producing 10 units of a particular product, even if they need to create 30 to break even.
If they lose money by selling 10 units, it doesn’t make sense.
Why is freight consolidation used for LCL shipments
Improved Inventory Management.
Beyond logistics, LCL freight consolidation enables efficient inventory management.
This means maintaining a consistent shipping procedure, with all necessary inventory transported on demand, eliminating the need to wait for a container to be filled.
In the current supply chain environment, where speed is crucial, waiting for sufficient demand to fill an entire container may not be the optimal approach for a freight forwarder.
LCL freight enables freight forwarders like SendWell Cargo Ltd to minimize inventory management costs by ensuring shipments arrive on time and at the right time, thereby maintaining an elastic and adaptable supply chain that can respond to market fluctuations.
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Why do I need an Import Declaration Form (IDF) for Kenya
Importers like SendWell Cargo Ltd are required to complete and sign an IDF form to certify the proper and correct value of imported goods before departure from the country of origin. IDF forms not used within three (3) months of the issuance date automatically result in the application of appropriate penalties.
Why is documentation accuracy critical for Kenyan customs
An incomplete or incorrect certificate can lead to delays, penalties and even the seizure of commodities. At SendWell Cargo Ltd, we simplify Kenyan imports with comprehensive logistics solutions, ensuring rapid and cost adequate customs clearance of your shipments.
Understanding the needed documentation is the first step to a successful market entry. This guide, presented by SendWell Cargo Ltd, your trusted logistics partner in Kenya, outlines the import process and highlights key documents, including import declarations, commercial invoices, and certificates of origin.
SendWell Cargo Ltd goal is to provide you with the knowledge you need to avoid delays and ensure a smooth customs clearance procedure.
Why do some items get delayed in customs despite complete paperwork
A customs clearance delay means the shipment is held up during the customs process, often due to missing documentation, unpaid duties, or additional inspection requirements. This delay prevents the goods from continuing their journey until the issue is resolved. Once cleared, the shipment can be forwarded to its destination.
Sometimes it can take some time for shipments to be released by customs. If the consignment remains held up for an unusually long period without notification of a problem, contact your partners to ensure that all documentation and duties have been submitted and paid. Then, wait a few days to a week.
Why are some items restricted or prohibited for Kenya imports
Governments restrict export and import activities for many purposes, primarily to protect national interests and maintain economic stability. These are the main reasons why governments impose such restrictions:
Protection of domestic industries
Import restrictions are intended to protect domestic industries from competition from cheaper or higher quality foreign products. This allows them to grow and compete. Reduction of unfair competition
Import restrictions protect domestic industries from unfair competition from imported products.
These imports are often cheaper due to lower production costs or government subsidies. Furthermore, the quality standards of imported products may differ from those of domestic products. By restricting imports, governments can prevent a flood of cheap, low quality products, which can be harmful to consumers and local industries.
This fosters a more equitable competitive environment, encouraging local industries to enhance the quality of their products.
Stimulate industrial growth.
Import restrictions can stimulate the growth of domestic industries. Emerging industries need time to achieve economies of scale and improve their production efficiency. Protection from import competition enables these industries to expand and attract investors, thereby stimulating economic growth and job creation.
Promote Product Diversification.
Import restrictions encourage the diversification of domestic production, thereby strengthening a country’s economic independence. By reducing their dependence on imports, countries can develop diversified domestic industries. Local production of previously imported goods adds greater value to the economy.
Which shipping method is best for small, light shipments from Alibaba to Kenya
Express shipping eliminates customs duties and customs clearance.
International couriers such as SendWell Cargo Ltd, UPS, or TNT offer a faster and more reliable service than the postal service. Express shipping is generally the most cost effective solution for parcels or small shipments weighing up to 150 kg, with a cost of approximately $4.50 per kilogram.
However, be careful, as some couriers may charge significantly higher prices to unregistered customers.
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Which freight forwarder options are recommended for Kenya imports from Alibaba
Here are some of the best shipping companies like SendWell Cargo Ltd recommended for importing from Alibaba to Kenya
Best shipping companies in Kenya
SendWell Cargo Ltd
Offers warehousing, inland transportation, air/sea freight, and customs clearance services, with experience in large volume imports and exports.
Mitchell Cotts Freight Kenya.
Offers international freight forwarding, shipping, handling, warehousing, transportation, and logistics management services, with a strong presence in Mombasa.
Salihiya Cargo & Shipping Agency.
Specializes in door to door transportation from Dubai, China, and the United Kingdom, including customs clearance, forwarding, warehousing, and delivery services.
Bolloré Africa Logistics.
Offers extensive scale supply chain management, import/export logistics, and customs clearance services.
Freight Forwarders Kenya Ltd.
Offers freight forwarding, customs clearance, warehousing, and inland transportation services, as well as consulting for international trade logistics.
Which ports in China and Kenya are commonly used
The port of Mombasa, situated on the southeastern coast of Kenya, serves as a central anchorage point for Chinese penetration. Mombasa, the most significant and busiest port in East Africa, serves as a gateway to landlocked African countries and is the hub of regional trade.
Which documents do I need before shipping from Alibaba to Kenya
Product information is essential for everyone involved in the shipment. It helps understand the contents of the package, the terms of sale and purchase, and determine whether the goods require special care, authorizations, and permits.
Shipping documents containing this information include
Commercial Invoice.
Packing List.
Certificate of Inspection.
Which products are most cost-effective to import from Alibaba to Kenya
Health and Fitness.
Health and fitness products encompass a range of consumer electronics, including smartwatches and fitness bands.
Personal Care.
Consumer electronics encompass a range of products, including electric toothbrushes, hair dryers, hair straighteners, and curling irons.
Which customs duties apply by product category
Here are the customs rates that apply to different product categories in Kenya
Capital goods.
A customs duty of 0% to 10% is intended to promote investment and economic growth.
Raw materials.
A customs duty of 0% to 10% is intended to support local production.
Semi finished products.
A customs duty of 10% applies to semi-finished products used in local production.
Consumer goods.
25% Duty, including electronics, clothing, and footwear.
Motor vehicles.
25% to 30% duty, with additional excise duties depending on the engine size or vehicle category.
Alcoholic beverages.
A duty of 30% to 50% is imposed to discourage consumption and increase revenue.
Tobacco products.
A duty of 30% to 50%, for similar reasons to alcoholic beverages.
Which express couriers are commonly used
Now it’s time to introduce the top express courier companies. To visit each company’s website, click on the corresponding link.
1 SendWell Cargo Ltd
SendWell Cargo Ltd is an international express courier, parcel delivery, and express mail service, . The company delivers over 1.5 billion packages annually.
SendWell Cargo Ltd is the most international company in the world. Its global network covers over 220 countries and territories, enabling it to meet virtually all logistics needs. SendWell Cargo Ltd Group, which owns SendWell Cargo Ltd, is the world’s largest provider of postal and logistics services.
Its subsidiaries include SendWell Cargo Ltd Express, SendWell Cargo Ltd Package, SendWell Cargo Ltd Freight and SendWell Cargo Ltd Supply Chain.
2.TNT
TNT Express is one of the world’s largest express courier companies. The company ships packages to over 200 countries and has a strong presence in Europe. We ensure your packages, documents, and products are delivered safely and on time, anywhere in the world.
TNT Express is a global logistics company specializing in parcel shipping. It is owned by FedEx and is headquartered in Hoofddorp, the Netherlands.
3-UPS.
United Parcel Service is an American multinational shipping, receiving, and inventory management company founded in 1907. Originally known as the American Messenger Company, it specialized in telegraph services. UPS later became a Fortune 500 company and one of the world’s largest courier companies.
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Which shipping term is best to negotiate: FOB, CIF, or DDP
DDP is the most straightforward incoterm, ideal for new importers or companies like SendWell Cargo Ltd seeking seamless delivery. However, it is more expensive, and buyers have less visibility into shipping and customs fees.
If you prioritize convenience over cost, DDP is the best option. If you’re looking for a more cost practical approach, FOB or CIF might be better choices.
Which supplier ratings or assurances are trustworthy on Alibaba
Supplier credentials are crucial when purchasing on Alibaba. Select suppliers with the Gold Supplier badge. This indicates that Alibaba has verified its credentials and is likely a trustworthy entity.
Trade Assurance.
Choose suppliers who offer this guarantee. This service protects your payments and ensures you receive the products as promised.
Verified Suppliers.
These suppliers have undergone an additional verification process, increasing the security of your transactions.
Which portal should I use for payment and dispute resolution
For payments and dispute resolution with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), you can use the following portals and services.
iTax Portal.
This is the leading online platform for tax services, including payment processing, dispute resolution, and tax-related matters. You can file appeals, track the status of your disputes, and make payments through this portal.
eTIMS.
This is an electronic invoicing and tax management system. Although primarily used for invoicing and tax compliance, it can also be used in some dispute resolution processes.
Dispute Resolution Procedure
1. File an appeal.
Submit your appeal through the iTax portal, including a detailed explanation of the dispute, supporting documents, and the exact tax calculation.
2. Wait for the KRA’s response.
The KRA will review your appeal and respond within a specified timeframe (currently 60 days).
3. Appeal to the Tax Appeal Tribunal.
If your appeal is declined, you can appeal to the Tax Appeal Tribunal.
Do I need a Kenyan business license to import goods from Alibaba
To import goods from Alibaba into Kenya, you must comply with Kenyan regulations.
Here’s what you need to know
Business registration.
You must register your business in Kenya to obtain the necessary permits and licenses.
Import permit.
Depending on the type of goods, you may need an import permit or license issued by the relevant authorities, like the Kenya Bureau of Standards or the Kenya Revenue Authority.
Tax Compliance.
Ensure your tax compliance by registering for a KRA PIN and fulfilling your tax obligations.
Required Documents
Valid Business Registration.
Certificate of Incorporation or Registration.
Import Declaration Form.
Required for customs clearance.
Commercial Invoice.
Detailed specification of the value of the goods.
Bill of Lading.
Proof of shipment and ownership of the cargo.
Certificate of Conformity.
Verifies that the goods meet Kenyan standards.
Do I need a Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) PIN to import
To import goods into Kenya, a Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) PIN is required.
Here’s why
Mandatory for importers: A Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) PIN is required for all importers, both individuals and businesses, to clear goods through customs and pay import duties and taxes.
Registration process.
You can obtain a Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) PIN online through the iTax portal by providing the required documents and information.
Benefits
A Kenya Revenue Authority PIN streamlines tax procedures, enhances credibility, and provides access to essential services, including customs clearance and government procurement.
Documents required for import customs clearance.
Import Declaration Form (IDF).
Issued by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), mandatory for all imports.
Commercial Invoice.
Detailed specification of the value of the goods.
Bill of Lading.
Proof of shipment and ownership of the cargo.
Certificate of Conformity (CoC).
Verifies that the goods comply with Kenyan standards.
Valid Commercial Invoices.
Issued by the exporting company.
Do I need an Import Declaration Form (IDF)
The Import Declaration Form (IDF) is a declaration of the customs value of a shipment, issued by the Customs Services Department of the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).
Importers are required to complete and sign an IDF to certify the correct and accurate value of imported goods before departure from the country of origin. An IDF not used within three (3) months from the date of issuance will automatically result in applicable penalties. For more information on obtaining IDF certification, visit www.alibaba.com.
Do I need PVoC certification for Alibaba shipments
Ensure that your commodities or goods comply with Kenyan regulations and quality requirements before shipping by testing according to Kenyan standards or approved specifications and/or obtaining the Certificate of Conformity (CoC) required by designated PVoC agents for all products subject to PVoC certification.
Do I need insurance for shipping from Alibaba
Trade Assurance is a free service offered by Alibaba.com, designed to establish trust between buyers and suppliers. Trade Assurance protects you in the event of a shipping or quality dispute. You are covered if: your products are not shipped within the timeframe agreed with the supplier.
Do I need a freight forwarder or can I handle shipping myself
Hiring a company to act on your behalf is an unnecessary expense. However, in the world of transportation, a freight forwarder is a crucial expense.
While it’s theoretically possible to act as your own trusted freight forwarder, in practice, it’s virtually impossible to handle an international shipment without the assistance of a professional freight forwarder. Furthermore, international shipments can be hazardous, and problems can arise easily.
Freight forwarders like SendWell Cargo Ltd are insured to handle these unforeseen circumstances.
Do I need to pay duties upfront or after arrival
In Kenya, customs duties and taxes can be paid in advance or upon arrival of the shipment, depending on the terms agreed upon with the freight forwarder or customs broker.
Here are some standard practices
Advance payment.
Some importers prefer to pay customs duties and taxes in advance to facilitate customs clearance and avoid potential delays.
Payment on arrival.
Others choose to pay customs duties and taxes upon arrival of the shipment, typically at the beginning of the customs clearance process.
Deferred payment.
Some importers can take advantage of deferred payment with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), which allows them to pay customs duties and taxes within a specified period after customs clearance has been completed.
Do I need an import license for certain products
In Kenya, some products require an import permit or license, depending on their nature and intended use.
These include
Health and safety products.
Import permits are required for a limited number of products related to health, the environment, and safety.
Restricted goods.
Products such as firearms, ammunition, and explosives require a permit issued by the relevant government agency.
Pharmaceuticals and electronics.
Regulated products such as pharmaceuticals and electronics may require special permits or licenses.
Animals, plants and seeds.
These products are subject to quarantine regulations and may require an import permit.
Do I need Kenya Bureau of Standards clearance
Products subject to mandatory inspection in the country of origin that arrive at the port of entry without a Certificate of Conformity will be subject to inspection at destination, with a penalty of 15% of the customs value. These products can only enter Kenya after KEBS has issued a satisfactory inspection or test report.
Do I need to register with Trade Assurance or Alibaba’s logistics
It’s also essential to sign a Trade Assurance contract on Alibaba.com, ensuring it includes the product quantity, specifications, and shipping information. You can ask your supplier to handle this for you, but ensure that the contract consists of the necessary clauses for your security.
Depending on who is responsible for shipping and insurance, make sure the terms are clearly stated in the contract with the seller. If you arrange the shipment yourself, ensure that the shipping costs section is left blank, as shipping will be charged separately. Possible shipping options include EXW, FCA, FAS, and FOB.