Top 12 Import and Export Companies in Kenya
Introduction to Top 12 Import and Export Companies in Kenya
Kenya is a top trade center in East Africa. Import and export companies in Kenya are important for global commerce. Create an important link for businesses desirous of reaching the country’s strategic location international markets by the Indian Ocean and its modern transport infrastructure. These companies help manage goods forwarding, customs withdrawal, warehousing and transportation. They ensure smooth imports and export procedures. Import and export business in Kenya promotes economic growth by:
- Supporting local businesses in sourcing goods and selling digital products globally.
- To generate employment in logistics, warehousing and international trade.
- Increasing trade efficiency by managing customs procedures and reducing delays.
This will provide insight into the guide:
- Top 12 imports and export companies in Kenya and her services.
- Major factors to consider when choosing a company for business.
- The role of imports/export firms in Kenya’s economy.
- Required suggestions for a smooth import/export process.
Top 12 Import and Export Companies in Kenya
Kenya has a strong network of imports and export companies. They provide major logistics and business services. These firms focus on freight forwarding, customs withdrawal, cargo handling and transport . It makes it easier for businesses to trade internationally.
1. Sheffield Cargo Logistics Limited
Location: Nairobi, Kenya Key Services:
- Freight forwarding for air and sea cargo.
- Customs clearance and documentation.
- Inland transport and warehousing.
Sheffield Cargo Logistics is a reliable company in Kenya. They are known for their efficiency in handling imports and exports. They offer smooth logistics solutions for businesses trading globally.
2. Air-Go Consultants
Location: Mombasa, Kenya Key Services:
- Air and sea freight services.
- Customs brokerage for imports/exports.
- Cargo handling and logistics consulting.
Air-Go Consultants focuses on quick and efficient global shipping solutions. They help businesses get goods delivered on time.
3. Focus Initiative Import and Export Company Ltd
Location: Nairobi, Kenya Key Services:
- Import and export logistics management.
- Customs clearance and compliance.
- Trade consulting for international markets.
This company is perfect for small and medium-sized businesses needing help with trade regulations.
4. Seabourne International Limited
Location: Mombasa, Kenya Key Services:
- Warehousing and inland transport.
- Air and sea freight forwarding.
- Customs clearance and cargo consolidation.
Seabourne International Limited is known for its logistics and supply chain expertise. They are a top choice for bulk imports and exports.
5. Industrial and Commercial Development Corporation (ICDC)
Location: Nairobi, Kenya Key Services:
- Investment facilitation for import/export businesses.
- Financial support for traders.
- Business advisory services.
As a government-owned institution, ICDC helps businesses secure funding for trade investments.
6. Mitchell Cotts Freight Kenya
Location: Mombasa, Kenya Key Services:
- Global shipping and freight forwarding.
- Cargo handling and storage.
- Transport and logistics management.
Mitchell Cotts Freight is a leading name in logistics, offering complete cargo handling solutions.
7. Salihiya Cargo & Shipping Agency
Location: Nairobi & Mombasa, Kenya Key Services:
- Door-to-door cargo shipping from Dubai, China, and the UK.
- Customs clearance and forwarding.
- Warehousing and delivery across Kenya.
Salihiya Cargo is highly rated for fast and reliable delivery services, especially for imports from Asia and Europe.
8. Bolloré Africa Logistics
Location: Nairobi & Mombasa, Kenya Key Services:
- Large-scale supply chain management.
- Import and export logistics.
- Customs brokerage and compliance.
Bolloré Africa Logistics is one of the largest multinational logistics companies in Africa. They handle high-volume imports and exports.
9. Freight Forwarders Kenya Ltd
Location: Nairobi & Mombasa, Kenya Key Services:
- Freight forwarding and customs clearance.
- Cargo warehousing and inland transport.
- Global trade logistics consulting.
Freight Forwarders Kenya Ltd offers complete logistics solutions for businesses aiming to streamline trade operations.
10. Express Shipping & Logistics (ESL)
Location: Mombasa, Kenya Key Services:
- Maritime transport and shipping solutions.
- Customs brokerage and compliance.
- Cargo consolidation and distribution.
Express Shipping & Logistics (ESL) has a strong presence in maritime trade. They are a go-to choice for sea freight companies.
11. Kenfreight Group
Location: Nairobi & Mombasa, Kenya Key Services:
- Project cargo handling.
- Containerized shipping and bulk transport.
- Warehousing and distribution.
Kenfreight Group is one of the largest logistics companies in East Africa, offering specialized transport solutions.
12. Siginon Group
Location: Nairobi & Mombasa, Kenya Key Services:
- Air, sea, and land transport solutions.
- End-to-end logistics management.
- Freight forwarding and customs clearance.
Siginon Group collaborates with private sector businesses and government institutions, ensuring smooth trade operations.
| Import/Export Company | Location | Key Services |
| Sheffield Cargo Logistics Limited | Nairobi | Freight forwarding (air/sea), customs clearance, inland transport, warehousing. |
| Air-Go Consultants | Mombasa | Air/sea freight, customs brokerage, cargo handling, logistics consulting. |
| Focus Initiative Import and Export Company Ltd | Nairobi | Import/export logistics, customs clearance, trade consulting. |
| Seabourne International Limited | Mombasa | Warehousing, inland transport, air/sea freight forwarding, customs clearance. |
| Industrial and Commercial Development Corporation (ICDC) | Nairobi | Investment/financial support for import/export businesses, advisory services. |
| Mitchell Cotts Freight Kenya | Mombasa | Global shipping, freight forwarding, cargo handling, storage, transport, logistics. |
| Salihiya Cargo & Shipping Agency | Nairobi & Mombasa | Door-to-door shipping (Dubai, China, UK), customs clearance, forwarding, warehousing, delivery. |
| Bolloré Africa Logistics | Nairobi & Mombasa | Large-scale supply chain management, import/export logistics, customs brokerage. |
| Freight Forwarders Kenya Ltd | Nairobi & Mombasa | Freight forwarding, customs clearance, cargo warehousing, inland transport, trade consulting. |
| Express Shipping & Logistics (ESL) | Mombasa | Maritime transport, shipping solutions, customs brokerage, cargo consolidation, distribution. |
| Kenfreight Group | Nairobi & Mombasa | Project cargo handling, containerized shipping, bulk transport, warehousing, distribution. |
| Siginon Group | Nairobi & Mombasa | Air/sea/land transport, end-to-end logistics, freight forwarding, customs clearance. |
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Import/Export Company
1. Experience and Reputation
- A well -established company with a strong track record is more likely to provide reliable services.
- Look for companies with years of experience in imports and exports.
- Check the customer review and admirers to estimate reliability.
- Verify if the company has handled the goods in the same way you are importing/exporting.
2. Limit of services
- A good import/export company should offer extensive logistics solutions, including:
- Goods forwarding (air, sea, or land transport).
- Customs withdrawal and regulatory compliance.
- Warehousing and distribution for effective supply chain management.
3. Compliance and Licensing
- Make sure the company is registered and licensed to operate in Kenya.
- Verify that they follow the rules of the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and Kenya Ports Authority (KPA).
- Check if they are recognised by industry groups. Like the Kenya International Freight and Warehousing Association (KIFWA).
4. Cost and pricing transparency
- Import/export costs may vary depending on the offer of the company and services.
- Request a wide cost break to avoid hidden fees.
- Compare prices from different companies to find the best price for money.
- Choose a company that provides clear payment terms and contract agreement.
5. Network and global access
- If you are importing or exporting goods internationally, make sure the company has a solid global network.
- Check if they have partnership with international shipping lines and goods college agents.
- Confirm their experience in handling shipment from your target countries.
6. Customer aid and communication
- Effective communication is important in international trade. Choose a company that provides:
- 24/7 customer aid to track shipment and solve issues.
- Regular shipment updates via email, SMS, or online tracking S
The Role of Import and Export Companies in Kenya’s Economy
1. International Trade Facility
Import and export companies help Kenya businesses reach global markets:
- Adding local producers with buyers for exports such as tea, coffee and flowers.
- Source of essential imports such as machinery, vehicles and raw materials.
- Management of customs withdrawal and regulatory compliance to ensure smooth transactions.
2. Creating employment opportunities
Logistics and business industries create thousands of jobs in various fields, including:
- Goods forwarding and cargo handling at airports and ports.
- Customs brokerage and compliance roles.
- Warehousing, transport and distribution services.
3. Local businesses and investments promote
By providing imports and export services, these companies support businesses in such areas:
- Agriculture – Exporting fresh yield, coffee and tea.
- Manufacturing – Importing raw materials and exporting finished products.
- Retail and wholesale trade – ensuring a stable supply of consumer goods.
4. Global competition of Kenya
Kenya’s strategic place and modern infrastructure make it a major trade center in East Africa. Import/export companies promote Kenya’s trade efficiency:
- Reducing business obstacles through effective customs management.
- Improves logistics and transportation for quick delivery.
- To attract foreign investment by making Kenya a desirable business place.
5. Government revenue collection support
Import and export companies contribute to tax revenue:
- Duties collected by Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and VAT import duties.
- Port fees and shipping fees paid to Kenya Ports Authority (KPA).
- Regulatory fee for license and compliance.
Tips for Importing and Exporting in Kenya
1. Work with Licensed Clearing Agents
Customs clearance is vital for importing and exporting goods. Hiring a licensed clearing agent can help you:
- Navigate Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) procedures.
- Avoid delays at the Port of Mombasa or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
- Ensure all import/export documents are filed correctly.
2. Understand Import Duties and Taxes
Kenya has various import taxes and duties that businesses must consider before shipping. These include:
- Import Duty – 25% of the Customs Value (CIF).
- Excise Duty – Varies by product type (higher for luxury goods and vehicles).
- Value Added Tax (VAT) – 16% of the total import cost.
- Railway Development Levy (RDL) – 1.5% of the CIF value.
- Import Declaration Fee (IDF) – 2% of the CIF value.
The KRA Import Duty Calculator can help estimate costs before shipping.
3. Use Secure Payment Methods
When working with international suppliers or buyers, ensure secure transactions by using:
- Letter of Credit (LC) – Payment is released only when trade conditions are met.
- Bank Transfers – Use trusted banks to reduce fraud risks.
- Escrow Services – Platforms like PayPal, Trade Assurance, orEscrow.com offer added safety.
Avoid sending direct payments to unfamiliar suppliers without checking their legitimacy.
4. Plan for Shipping and Logistics Delays
International shipping can face delays due to:
- Port congestion and customs clearance backlogs.
- Unforeseen logistics issues like weather disruptions.
- Changes in supplier and shipping schedules.
To reduce risks:
- Allow extra time for shipment arrival and clearance.
- Use tracking systems to monitor cargo movement.
- Choose reliable freight forwarding companies with strong logistics networks.
5. Ensure Compliance with Kenyan Trade Regulations
To avoid legal issues, ensure all imported and exported goods meet:
- Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) certification for quality assurance.
- KRA customs regulations to prevent penalties.
- Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) guidelines for smooth cargo clearance.
Conclusion
Kenya’s import and export companies are the leading players in international trade. They connect businesses to global markets and manage logistics, ensuring smooth customs withdrawal. These companies provide important services such as frequencies, warehousing, customs brokerage and transport to help businesses move goods efficiently.
key takeaways:
- It is important to choose the right import/export company
- Understanding import duties and taxes helps in cost planning
- Working with licensed clearing agents reduces delay
- Methods of safe payment prevent fraud
- Proper logistics planning shipping delay is avoided