Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. We arrange air freight from US airports to Nairobi (JKIA) and sea freight from US ports to Mombasa, with door-to-door delivery to towns across Kenya through trusted partners.

It depends on what you are sending and how quickly it must arrive. Air freight is best for urgent, light or valuable items; sea freight is best for heavy, bulky or high-volume cargo. We recommend the right mode when we quote.

Our headquarters is at 310 Armour Rd Suite 209, North Kansas City, Missouri 64116, United States.

Yes. We can arrange pickup across the United States, including New York, New Jersey, Texas, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Washington State and the DC area.

No. We can collect from your home, business or supplier. Drop-off can also be arranged if you prefer.

Yes. Small shipments can travel by air or as part of a shared (LCL) sea consolidation. For a single small box, air is usually more practical.

Yes. We work with families, returning residents, small businesses, importers, NGOs and large companies.

Pickup ZIP code, delivery town in Kenya, a list of items with approximate dimensions and weights, cargo value, and your deadline. Photos help for unusual items.

We aim to reply within one business day. Urgent requests can be made by phone or WhatsApp.

There is no strict minimum, but very small shipments may be more cost-effective as a courier parcel. We will tell you honestly which option makes sense.

Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Eldoret, Thika, Ruiru, Kiambu, Naivasha, Nyeri, Machakos, Meru, Malindi and other towns on request.

Yes. Name the receiver on the booking and make sure their details, ID and KRA PIN match the shipping documents.

Cost depends on mode, weight, volume, origin, destination and the type of goods. We provide itemised quotes rather than generic prices — request one here.

Rates change with fuel prices, season and space availability, and every shipment is different. Real quotes prevent surprise charges later.

For heavy or bulky goods, shared-container (LCL) sea freight is usually the cheapest option. Consolidating purchases into one shipment also lowers cost.

Per kilogram of chargeable weight, which is the greater of the actual weight and the volumetric weight (length × width × height in cm ÷ 6,000).

Shared (LCL) shipments are priced per cubic metre; full containers (FCL) are priced per 20ft or 40ft container, plus origin and destination charges.

A weight calculated from a package’s size. Large, light items can be charged on their volume rather than their actual weight. Try our freight estimator.

Our quotes show freight, handling and estimated duties separately so you can see the full landed cost. Final duty is assessed by the Kenya Revenue Authority.

We list all known charges on your quote. Extra costs can arise from things outside our control, such as customs inspections, storage caused by missing documents or changes to the cargo.

Demurrage is charged when a container stays at the port beyond its free time; detention is charged when a container is kept outside the port too long. Having documents ready avoids both.

Yes. Rates often rise before major holidays and during periods of high demand. Booking early helps.

Consolidate purchases, pack efficiently to reduce volume, choose sea freight when time allows and make sure documents are complete before shipping.

Often, for ocean freight to Mombasa, East Coast and Gulf ports have shorter routings than the West Coast. We compare options when we quote.

Payment terms and methods are confirmed on your booking. Business customers may be offered account terms subject to approval.

Freight is normally paid before the cargo departs the US unless other terms are agreed. Duties are normally paid in Kenya before release.

No. Quotes are free and without obligation.

Air freight typically takes about 5–10 days door to door. Sea freight typically takes around 4–7 weeks including clearance and inland delivery.

Ocean services usually tranship through hubs in Europe, the Mediterranean or the Middle East before reaching Mombasa, and port handling and clearance add time.

Incomplete documents, customs inspections, port congestion, weather, missing certificates for regulated goods and waiting for shared containers to fill.

We give realistic estimates and keep you updated, but international transit depends on carriers and authorities, so dates are not guaranteed.

Clearance can take a few days when documents are complete; it takes longer if goods are inspected or paperwork is missing.

Air freight can depart within days. Sea consolidations and container sailings depart on carrier schedules; we will advise the next available departure.

As early as possible. For sea freight allow at least two months before your deadline; for air freight allow two to three weeks.

By SGR freight train or road, cargo typically reaches Nairobi within a few days of release at Mombasa.

Delivery to towns further from Nairobi or Mombasa can add a few days, depending on distance and road conditions.

Pickup is usually scheduled within a few business days of booking, depending on location.

Yes. US and Kenyan public holidays, and peak seasons, can slow pickups, port operations and clearance.

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi, Kenya’s main air cargo gateway.

Commonly JFK (New York), Atlanta, Chicago O’Hare, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Miami, Los Angeles and Washington Dulles, depending on your location.

For urgent, compact or high-value goods, yes — faster transit and lower risk often outweigh the higher price per kilo.

It depends on the aircraft. Very large items may need cargo-aircraft space; tell us the dimensions and we will check.

Yes. Electronics are commonly shipped by air. Devices with lithium batteries must be packed and declared correctly.

Loose lithium batteries are restricted. Batteries installed in or packed with equipment can often be shipped if declared and packed according to airline rules.

The transport document for air cargo, issued by the airline or forwarder, which lists shipper, consignee and cargo details.

These are classed as dangerous goods and are restricted. Ask us before packing them.

Yes, faster options can be arranged for urgent cargo, subject to availability and cost.

Use strong boxes, cushion contents, seal securely and label each package. Compact packing lowers volumetric weight.

Yes. After clearance at JKIA we coordinate delivery to your town.

The Port of Mombasa (Kilindini), East Africa’s largest seaport.

Full Container Load — you use an entire 20ft or 40ft container for your goods.

Less than Container Load — your goods share a container with other shippers and you pay for the space used.

Once your cargo fills roughly half of a 20ft container, FCL is often similar in cost and involves less handling.

About 33 cubic metres — often the contents of a one- or two-bedroom home or around 10 standard pallets.

About 67 cubic metres — a larger home, or around 20–21 standard pallets.

A 40ft container about one foot taller than standard, giving roughly 76 cubic metres of space for bulky cargo.

Yes, if there is safe access for a truck and container. Loading time is limited and agreed in advance.

A dry port in Nairobi connected to Mombasa by the Standard Gauge Railway, where containers can be cleared closer to Nairobi.

An inland depot at the end of the current SGR line, useful for cargo going to western Kenya and Uganda.

The ocean transport document that serves as a receipt, contract of carriage and document of title for the cargo.

Often yes, if the container has room and the vehicle is properly secured. All contents must be declared.

When cargo is moved from one vessel to another at a hub port during the journey. Most US–Kenya ocean services involve transhipment.

Yes, if packed properly. Crate fragile items and fill gaps so nothing moves during the voyage.

Usually a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, the importer’s KRA PIN and ID, plus any certificates required for the goods.

The Kenya Revenue Authority Personal Identification Number. Importers need one to clear goods through customs.

Generally the importer must have a KRA PIN. Non-residents and returning residents should ask us about the right arrangement.

The Kenya Bureau of Standards Pre-Export Verification of Conformity programme, which requires certain goods to be inspected and certified before shipment.

A certificate issued under the PVoC programme confirming that goods meet Kenyan standards. Regulated products without one can face delays, penalties or destruction.

A licensed customs clearing agent lodges the declaration and handles clearance. We coordinate this through partners on door-to-door shipments.

Kenya’s electronic trade system, through which import declarations and permits from different agencies are processed.

Customs may inspect any shipment. Accurate declarations and packing lists make inspections quicker.

Errors can cause delays, storage charges, penalties or reassessment of duty. We check documents before departure to reduce this risk.

Yes, always. Under-declaring is illegal and can lead to penalties, seizure and delays.

Some used goods, such as vehicles and certain electronics, have specific rules. Ask us before shipping.

Most general goods do not, but food, medicines, chemicals, plants, animals and some other goods need permits from the relevant Kenyan agency.

A list of every item or box, with quantities, descriptions, weights and values. Customs relies on it to assess the shipment.

Gifts are generally subject to the same customs rules as other imports, although small personal consignments may be treated differently. Declare them accurately.

The importer or receiver normally pays duties and taxes before release, unless other arrangements are agreed.

Duty is generally calculated on the customs value of the goods (including freight and insurance) using the East African Community Common External Tariff, plus other taxes.

Typically import duty, VAT and, for some goods, excise duty, plus levies such as the Import Declaration Fee and Railway Development Levy. Rates change, so check current rates with KRA.

Kenya’s standard VAT rate is 16%, though some goods are exempt or zero-rated. Confirm current rates with KRA.

The common set of import duty rates applied by East African Community members to goods from outside the bloc.

Returning residents may qualify for exemption on used personal and household effects if they meet KRA conditions. Ask us before shipping.

In some cases duties can be arranged in advance. Ask us about duty-paid options when you request a quote.

Customs may reassess the value or classification of goods, or rates may change. Estimates are based on the information provided.

Cargo correctly declared in transit to another country (for example Uganda) does not pay Kenyan import duty; duty is paid in the destination country.

Customs assesses value using official methods and reference data. Provide receipts or valuations where possible.

Yes, if the vehicle meets Kenyan import rules, including the age limit and right-hand-drive requirement.

Kenya generally allows imported vehicles up to 8 years old from the year of first registration. Confirm the current rule before buying.

Left-hand-drive vehicles are generally not allowed for ordinary road use, except special-purpose vehicles. Most US vehicles are left-hand drive, so check carefully before buying.

Yes. Imported vehicles must pass a roadworthiness inspection under KEBS requirements.

Usually in a container or by roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessel to Mombasa.

The title, bill of sale, export documents, inspection certificate, ID and KRA PIN of the importer, among others.

Rules vary by shipping method. Items inside vehicles must be declared and some carriers do not allow them.

Vehicle taxes include import duty, excise duty, VAT and levies based on the vehicle’s assessed value. They can be substantial, so estimate before buying.

Yes, subject to the same type of import rules. Motorcycles are usually crated or containerised.

Yes. Heavy vehicles and machinery can travel on flat-rack containers or as breakbulk.

Yes. Household goods usually travel by sea, either in a shared container or a dedicated container.

Yes. We help returning residents ship furniture, appliances, personal effects and vehicles. Ask about potential duty exemptions for returning residents.

It depends on value, sentiment and volume. We can quote so you can compare.

Yes. Check voltage compatibility — Kenya uses 240V, 50Hz, while the US uses 120V, 60Hz.

Yes, ideally in its original box or professionally packed. TVs can attract duty and excise.

Packing can be arranged on request. We also provide guidance if you prefer to pack yourself.

Number each box, list its contents and value, and include large items separately. Keep a copy for yourself.

Avoid food items; they are often restricted or require permits.

Plants and soil require phytosanitary permits and are generally best not shipped with household goods.

Yes. Used clothing for personal use should be declared as personal effects.

Yes. We ship stock, equipment and supplies for businesses, retailers, wholesalers and NGOs.

Yes. Provide supplier addresses and pickup hours and we schedule collections.

Yes. Goods can be received, checked and consolidated into one export shipment.

Common choices include EXW and FCA. Your choice affects who arranges and pays for each part of the journey.

Yes. We plan project cargo and heavy equipment shipments, including out-of-gauge items.

Yes. We support NGOs with supplies and equipment for Kenya and East Africa.

Yes. Regular customers can arrange scheduled consolidations or recurring shipments.

Yes. Online sellers often consolidate inventory and ship by sea to reduce cost.

The seller or shipper provides the commercial invoice. We check it is complete before shipping.

Yes. After clearance we can coordinate deliveries to several branches or customers.

Prohibited items include illegal drugs, counterfeit goods, weapons without permits, pornography and certain hazardous materials. Some items such as plastic carrier bags are banned in Kenya.

Medicines, food, alcohol, tobacco, chemicals, plants, animals, firearms, telecommunications equipment and some used goods may need permits or approvals.

Medicines require approval from Kenya’s pharmacy regulator in most cases. Personal-use quantities may have specific rules — ask first.

Alcohol is subject to excise duty, labelling rules and possibly permits. Ask us before shipping.

Usually yes, but some ingredients and aerosols are restricted, and certain products need conformity certification.

Commercial used clothing is regulated and subject to inspection and duties. Contact us before shipping.

Drones require approval from Kenyan aviation authorities. Do not ship without the right permits.

No, not without the proper licences in both countries; we do not handle these.

No. Counterfeit goods are illegal and will be seized.

Only if properly classified, packed, labelled and accepted by the carrier. Tell us before booking.

Kenya bans plastic carrier bags. Avoid using them for packing.

Use strong new boxes, cushion contents, fill empty spaces, seal well and label every box with your name, the receiver and a box number.

Palletising commercial cargo and heavy boxes makes handling safer. Use heat-treated wooden pallets marked with the ISPM 15 stamp.

An international standard requiring wooden packaging to be treated to prevent pests. Untreated wood can be rejected.

Stretch-wrapping pallets is recommended. Avoid plastic carrier bags, which are banned in Kenya.

Use original packaging if possible, or wrap in bubble wrap and pack tightly in a double-wall box.

Write the shipper and receiver names, the destination town and a box number that matches the packing list.

New boxes are better. Old boxes lose strength and may not survive ocean transit.

Keep boxes to a weight one person can lift safely, ideally under about 25 kg (55 lb), unless palletised.

Packing materials can be arranged on request.

Yes. Photos of items and packed boxes help with insurance claims and customs questions.

Yes, with door-to-door service we coordinate final delivery to the receiver’s address.

Yes. Collection from a warehouse or depot can be arranged.

Yes, through local partners. Remote areas may take longer and cost more.

The receiver is contacted in advance, the cargo is delivered and the receiver confirms receipt.

Yes. The receiver should have ID that matches the shipping documents.

Yes — Mombasa is the arrival port for sea freight, and we deliver across Mombasa and the coast.

Yes. Cargo travels by road from Nairobi or Mombasa to Kisumu.

Yes, by road along the Northern Corridor.

Yes. Containers can also clear at the Naivasha Inland Container Depot.

Basic unloading can be arranged; let us know about heavy items or special access needs in advance.

Use the tracking page with your reference number, or contact our team by phone, email or WhatsApp.

Yes. We share updates at key milestones such as pickup, departure, arrival and release.

Yes. Use the WhatsApp button on our website for quick questions and updates.

Our dispatch team is available 24/7 for freight and urgent shipment issues.

Contact us immediately with your reference number. We will investigate and keep you informed.

Yes, if you share their contact details on the booking.

A unique number on your booking confirmation used for tracking and all communication.

Changes may be possible but can add cost or delay. Contact us as early as possible.

Carrier liability is limited and may not cover full value. We recommend cargo insurance — ask us when you request a quote.

Depending on the policy, loss or damage during transit. Read the terms for exclusions such as poor packing.

Usually a small percentage of the insured value, depending on the goods and route.

Note the damage on the delivery receipt, take photos and notify us in writing as soon as possible.

Report immediately. Time limits apply under carrier terms and insurance policies.

Send your reference number, photos, invoices and a description of the loss or damage. See claims and complaints.

Through secure handling, vetted partners, careful loading and documentation checks.

We use your data only to arrange your shipment. See our privacy policy.

Yes. Cargo can arrive at Mombasa and travel along the Northern Corridor to Uganda via Malaba or Busia.

Yes, via the Northern Corridor through Kenya and Uganda, or via Dar es Salaam.

Yes, via Mombasa and Uganda to Juba, subject to routing and security checks.

Yes, via Dar es Salaam or through Kenya and the Namanga border for northern Tanzania.

Yes, typically via Mombasa and Uganda to towns such as Goma and Bunia.

Yes. Ethiopia mostly imports through Djibouti, and southern Ethiopia can be reached via Kenya and Moyale.

The main transport route from Mombasa through Kenya to Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan and eastern DRC.

Cargo passing through one country to another under customs bond, without being cleared for use in the transit country.

In Uganda, when the transit cargo is correctly declared from the start.

Yes. FTL, LTL, dedicated, long-haul, expedited and intermodal trucking from Kansas City remain core services.

Full Truckload — one shipper uses the whole trailer and the freight goes directly from pickup to delivery.

Less Than Truckload — freight shares trailer space with other shipments and you pay for the space used.

Typically when you have around 10 or more pallets, need speed, or your freight should not be handled at terminals.

Dry van and flatbed, with specialised equipment arranged when needed.

Yes, for businesses with recurring shipments that want committed capacity.

We are based in Kansas City and serve commercial lanes across the continental US, subject to fleet availability and operating authority.

Yes, priority planning for time-critical loads, subject to capacity.

A standard classification used to price LTL freight, based on density, handling and value.

Extra charges for services such as liftgate, residential delivery, inside delivery or waiting time.

Yes. Proof of delivery is available after the load is delivered.

Yes. We plan pickups and deliveries around your dock hours and appointments.

Yes. Flatbed capacity is available for suitable loads.

Send your lane, freight details and dates through our quote form or call dispatch.

Freight moved by more than one mode — usually truck and rail — in the same container or trailer.

It is often more economical and fuel-efficient for long distances.

It can add a day or two on some lanes, but often saves money.

Kansas City is one of the largest rail hubs in the United States, served by several major railroads.

Short-distance trucking between rail ramps or ports and warehouses.

Yes, for interstate commercial lanes based on route coverage and fleet availability.

Planning around hours-of-service rules, realistic appointments and regular check-calls.

Yes, with the right trailers, permits and route planning.

Apply on our Become a Carrier page with your authority, insurance and equipment details.

Active operating authority, valid insurance and a strong safety record.

Yes, we welcome qualified owner-operators and small fleets.

Yes. We work with clearing agents, transporters and delivery companies — see Partner With Us.

Yes. Gelle Transport is a woman-owned and minority-owned business.

Yes. Request our documents on the supplier registration page.

Yes. We welcome invitations to transportation RFPs and sourcing events.

Yes, we connect shippers with vetted carrier capacity when needed.

Gelle Transport has been moving freight since 2014.

Gelle Transport is a woman-owned and minority-owned company.

Ask us for current certification details for your supplier registration requirements.

Reliable US trucking roots, one accountable team from US pickup to Kenyan delivery, honest itemised quotes and 24/7 dispatch.

We welcome applications from drivers, dispatchers and logistics professionals — see Careers.

Call +1 (816) 482-2607, email info@gelletransport.com, use WhatsApp, or visit our office in North Kansas City.

Our office is in Kansas City. In Kenya we work with trusted clearing and delivery partners.

Yes, we appreciate feedback. Contact us and we will share where to leave a review.