Freight Shipping from the UAE to Kenya

To ship freight from the UAE to Kenya, it’s crucial to understand the logistics involved, such as shipping options, costs, transit durations, and customs procedures. RAM International Shipping has put together this guide to help you make well-informed decisions, from selecting the most appropriate shipping method to navigating Kenya’s import regulations. This detailed guide will help you plan your shipment efficiently and ensure smooth delivery to Kenya.

Shipping Methods from the UAE to Kenya

There are two main shipping methods available when sending cargo to Kenya: Air Freight and Ocean Freight. Each method offers distinct benefits, depending on the size of your shipment, its urgency, and your budget.

Air Freight

Air freight is the fastest solution for shipping to Kenya, making it ideal for high-priority or valuable goods. While air freight tends to be more expensive than ocean freight, it guarantees quick delivery times, which is perfect for shipments that require immediate attention. RAM International Shipping offers dependable air freight services with flexible scheduling options to accommodate your specific timing and cargo needs.

Ocean Freight

For larger or less time-sensitive shipments, Ocean Freight provides a more affordable alternative. You can choose between Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL):

• FCL (Full Container Load): Best suited for larger shipments that require an entire container, providing secure and direct transportation.
• LCL (Less than Container Load): Ideal for smaller shipments that can share container space with other cargo, helping to cut costs.

For more information on the available ocean freight options, check out our page to explore the best choice for your shipment.

Shipping Costs from the UAE to Kenya

The cost of shipping freight from the UAE to Kenya is determined by several factors, such as the type of transport used, the size and weight of the cargo, the shipment’s destination within Kenya, and other variables. For an accurate estimate of shipping costs based on your specific shipment, you can either use our freight rate calculator or request a personalized shipping quote.

How Long Does Shipping Take from the UAE to Kenya?

The shipping time to Kenya depends on the selected shipping method:

• Air Freight: Typically takes between 3-7 days, depending on flight schedules and customs processing times.
• Ocean Freight: Usually takes 30-45 days, depending on the port-to-port route, and whether FCL or LCL is chosen.

For a more accurate estimate based on your specific shipment, please get in touch with our team with the details of your cargo.

Customs Clearance in the UAE and Kenya

Customs clearance is a crucial part of the international shipping process to Kenya. RAM International Shipping offers complete customs clearance services to ensure compliance with both UAE and Kenyan regulations, facilitating a smoother import process and minimizing delays.

In the UAE, the necessary documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and any required export permits. For customs clearance in Kenya, the following documents are usually required:

• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill: This serves as proof of shipment and a contract between the shipper and the carrier.
• Commercial Invoice and Packing List: These documents provide detailed information about the contents, quantity, and value of the goods.
• Certificate of Origin: This verifies where the goods originated, often required for duty assessment and potential tariff reductions.
• Import Duty and Tax Payment: Duties and taxes vary depending on the nature and value of the goods, and must be paid before the cargo is cleared for release.

Prohibited and Restricted Items for Import into Kenya

Kenya enforces strict regulations regarding items that are prohibited or restricted from being imported. Prohibited goods include counterfeit money, narcotics, specific hazardous chemicals, and items that could pose a threat to public safety or health. Restricted goods, such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural products, may require special permits or approvals to be imported.

For the most current list of restricted and prohibited items, please visit the Kenya Revenue Authority website to ensure compliance and avoid any shipment delays.

Major Port in Kenya

• Port of Mombasa: This is the largest and busiest port in Kenya, situated along the southeastern coast of the Indian Ocean. Mombasa handles a significant share of the country’s imports, providing services for containerized cargo, bulk goods, and oil products. With its well-established facilities and connectivity, Mombasa serves as the primary gateway for goods entering Kenya and the broader East African region.

Common Shipping Routes from the UAE to Kenya

Several prominent shipping routes link the UAE to Kenya, each offering distinct advantages depending on the origin and destination ports:

• East Coast UAE to Mombasa: Routes from ports like Dubai and Sharjah to Mombasa are commonly used for containerized cargo and general goods.
• Gulf Coast UAE to Mombasa: Ideal for shipments originating from Dubai, especially for bulk goods, oil, and gas equipment.
• West Coast UAE to Mombasa: Shipping from ports such as Abu Dhabi to Mombasa is common for various commercial goods, serving industries across East Africa.

Each route has specific transit times and cost implications, and RAM International Shipping can help you choose the most efficient route based on your shipment needs.

Why Choose RAM International Shipping?

RAM International Shipping offers tailored freight forwarding solutions that make shipping from the UAE to Kenya smooth and efficient. Here’s why businesses choose RAM for their international shipping needs:

• Customized Solutions: We offer flexible air freight, FCL, and LCL options, ensuring our services are perfectly aligned with your specific shipping requirements.
• Expertise in Kenyan Imports: Our knowledgeable team understands Kenya’s import regulations, ensuring seamless customs clearance and full compliance with local laws.
• Dedicated Customer Support: Our team is here to support you every step of the way, from handling documentation to providing real-time tracking, ensuring that your shipment reaches its destination on time and in perfect condition.

To get started with planning your shipment, reach out to us for a consultation or request a quote today!