Shipping from China to Kenya
FCL and LCL sea freight from Shanghai, Ningbo, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou to Mombasa Port. Fast customs clearance, competitive rates, and bonded inland transport to Nairobi and Kampala.
Transit Times — China to Mombasa
FCL
Shanghai (CNSHA)
25–32 days
to Mombasa Port
FCL
Ningbo (CNNGB)
26–33 days
to Mombasa Port
FCL
Shenzhen/Yantian (CNSZX)
28–35 days
to Mombasa Port
FCL
Guangzhou (CNCAN)
28–36 days
to Mombasa Port
Transit times are indicative. LCL shipments add 7–14 days. Actual times depend on the shipping line schedule and transshipment port.
What NexGen Handles on This Route
FCL Freight Booking
Full container load from 20ft to 45ft HC from all major Chinese ports. We negotiate competitive rates with MSC, CMA CGM, COSCO, and Evergreen.
LCL Consolidation
Less-than-container load consolidation from Shanghai, Ningbo, and Shenzhen. Weekly sailings. You pay per CBM, not per container.
Kenya Customs Clearance
IDF application, KRA customs entry, duty assessment, payment coordination, KPA gate release. Your cargo clears in 2–4 working days from vessel arrival.
PVoC Coordination
We coordinate your Pre-Shipment Verification of Conformity (PVoC) with KEBS-accredited inspection bodies in China before your goods ship.
Inland Transport
Bonded transport from Mombasa Port to Nairobi ICD, Kampala, or any upcountry destination. One invoice covers port to door.
Documentation
Commercial invoice checking, packing list review, HS code verification, Certificate of Origin processing.
Documents Required
| Document | Prepared By | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | Chinese supplier | Must include FOB value, HS code, full buyer details |
| Packing List | Chinese supplier | Item-by-item breakdown of quantities and weights |
| Bill of Lading | Shipping line | Issued after loading. Original BL controls cargo ownership. |
| Import Declaration (IDF) | NexGen (clearing agent) | Applied via KenTrade before vessel arrival. Must be done in advance. |
| PVoC Certificate | KEBS-accredited body in China | Mandatory for most goods. Applied in China before shipping. |
| Certificate of Origin | Chinese Chamber of Commerce | Required for EAC tariff claims and some special categories |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does shipping from China to Kenya take?
FCL sea freight from major Chinese ports to Mombasa takes 25–38 days depending on the departure port and routing. LCL adds 7–14 days for consolidation and deconsolidation at both ends.
What documents do I need to import from China to Kenya?
You need a Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading, Import Declaration Form (IDF), Pre-Shipment Verification of Conformity (PVoC) certificate, and Certificate of Origin. Your clearing agent at Mombasa handles the IDF and customs entry.
What import duties will I pay in Kenya?
Kenya charges Import Duty (0–35% depending on HS code, usually 25% for consumer goods), VAT (16%), IDF (2.5%), and RDL (2.0%), all calculated on the CIF value. Use our free Duty Estimator to calculate your specific shipment.
What is the difference between FCL and LCL?
FCL (Full Container Load) is where you rent the entire container — cost-effective from around 10 CBM upward. LCL (Less than Container Load) is where your cargo shares a container with others — better for smaller shipments under 10 CBM.
Ready to ship from China to Kenya?
Get a competitive quote within 4 hours. NexGen handles freight booking, Mombasa customs clearance, and delivery to your door.
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