Customs & documents in Kenya — FAQs

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.