Practical Shipment Planning
Customs processes depend on the commodity, origin, value, applicable regulations and supporting documents. Preparing information early can reduce avoidable questions and help the shipment progress more smoothly.
Customs Clearance That Won't Ground You
In-house documentation and clearance by our licensed team, keeping your cargo moving through KRA customs without unnecessary delays.
Overview
What This Service Covers
Customs paperwork is where shipments stall — a missing certificate, a misclassified commodity, an invoice that doesn't match the manifest. Our customs clearance support service helps you get it right before it goes wrong: we review, prepare and lodge your documentation ourselves as a licensed clearing agent, with no hand-offs to other agents, so your cargo clears Kenya Revenue Authority procedures smoothly.
What’s Included
Key Features
Document Preparation
Commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin and permits checked and prepared.
HS Code Classification
Correct commodity classification to avoid overpaying duties or triggering inspections.
Duty & Tax Guidance
Clear explanations of what you'll pay and why — before your cargo arrives.
In-House Clearance
We handle formal KRA processing ourselves as a licensed customs clearing agent. We never hand your cargo to another agent.
Compliance Checks
Restricted and regulated goods flagged early so permits are arranged in time.
Stuck Shipment Rescue
Cargo held at the port or airport? We help diagnose and resolve the hold-up fast.
The Process
How It Works
1
Send Us Your Paperwork
Share invoices, packing lists and any certificates you already hold.
2
Review & Gap Check
We identify missing documents and classification issues before submission.
3
Submission & Processing
Documentation is lodged and we follow up with agents and KRA channels.
4
Cleared & Released
Your cargo is released for pickup or onward delivery — with charges fully explained.
Why It Matters
Benefits for Your Business
- Fewer delays at the border — Most holds are paperwork problems. We catch them before submission.
- No surprise charges — Duty estimates in advance so you can budget your landed cost accurately.
- Expert eyes on your file — Experienced review of every document — typos and mismatches cost days; we prevent them.
- Faster turnaround — Familiarity with JKIA and Mombasa processes keeps cargo flowing.
- Support for both directions — Import clearance into Kenya and export documentation out of Kenya.
Good to Know
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you clear cargo on my behalf?
We prepare and lodge your declarations ourselves as a licensed customs clearing agent. Your cargo is never handed to another agent.
What documents are needed to import into Kenya?
Typically: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or airway bill, certificate of origin, and import permits for regulated goods.
How are import duties calculated?
Duties are based on the customs value and HS classification of the goods, plus applicable taxes. We provide estimates before shipping.
My shipment is stuck in customs — can you help?
Yes. Share your documents and reference numbers, and we'll help identify the issue and the fastest route to release.
Explore Further
Related Services
Kenya Logistics Expertise
Kenya Customs Clearance Support
Sovam Logistics provides customs clearance support and documentation guidance for importers and exporters handling cargo through Kenya. We help customers organize shipment information and understand the documentation and coordination steps that can affect clearance timelines.
Clear Documentation & Communication
We encourage accurate cargo descriptions, dimensions, weights, contact information and delivery instructions before movement begins. Clear information helps the right teams make faster decisions.
From Origin to Final Delivery
For customs support, share the commercial invoice, packing information, shipment details and any permits or certificates relevant to the goods. Requirements vary by cargo, so regulated or restricted products should be reviewed before dispatch. Our team can also coordinate related services where needed, including freight, customs support, cargo handling and last-mile delivery.
Importing to Kenya
Documents You Need at a Glance
From the Import Declaration Form to the shipping document, here is the checklist our clearing team works through.
