Guidelines on How to Import Goods Through Mombasa Port For Your Business Cheaply

Importing goods from overseas can be a great way for small businesses to grow and expand their offerings. For example, you might want to import quality clothing from Turkey, sanitary ware from China, or seeds from South Africa for your agriculture project. However, the process of importing and clearing goods can be daunting, especially if you’ve never done it before. In this article, we’ll walk you through some guidelines on how to import goods through Mombasa port for your business cheaply.

Why choose to import goods

One of the benefits of importing goods is that you can increase the variety of products that your business offers. For example, if you own a small boutique, you can import unique clothing items from other countries that are not commonly found in your local market. This can help your business stand out from competitors and attract new customers.

However, the import process can be daunting, especially for small businesses. This is where a clearing and forwarding agent comes in. A good agent can handle all of the paperwork, including applying for a Bill of Lading, and ensuring that your goods are shipped and received at the port of Mombasa. They will also advise you on the duties and taxes that you will need to pay when importing goods, as well as any other regulations that you need to be aware of.

It’s important to note that the cost of importing goods can vary greatly depending on the type of product, the country of origin, and the shipping method. Some products may require additional documentation or inspections, which can add to the overall cost. As a small business owner, it’s important to carefully consider the costs and potential risks before deciding to import goods.

In addition to hiring a clearing and forwarding agent, you can also do your own research to find reliable suppliers and shipping companies. Websites such as Alibaba, Aliexpress, Amazon, Made in China and Ebay offer a convenient way to shop for goods online from other countries. However, it’s important to carefully vet potential suppliers to ensure that they are legitimate and reputable. You can also consider attending trade shows and conferences to network with suppliers and learn more about the importation process. Below are the guidelines on how to import goods through Mombasa port for your business cheaply.

How to import goods through Mombasa port for your business cheaply- steps to follow

Step 1: Identify the Goods You Want to Import

First, you need to decide what goods you want to import. Some popular sources for small businesses include China (electronics, electrical fittings, sanitary-ware, packaging materials), Japan (cars and electronics), Turkey (clothes), Dubai (electronics, home decor items, and clothes), and South Africa (agricultural commodities). You can choose to visit these countries or shop online through platforms like Alibaba, Aliexpress, Made in China, Amazon, or eBay.

Step 2: Find a Local Clearing and Forwarding Agent

Once you have identified the goods you want to import, you need to find a local clearing and forwarding agent. This agent will be responsible for ensuring that your goods are shipped and received at the port of Mombasa. They can provide advice on all the necessary requirements and even make recommendations before arranging the shipping.

Step 3: Ship Your Goods

Once you’ve paid for your goods, the seller will package and send them to a shipping company, which will issue your cargo with a specific number that will be automatically lodged into the Kenya Ports Authority system (KWATOS). Through KWATOS, you can track the whereabouts of your goods as they make their way to Mombasa.

Step 4: Start the Clearing Process

When your goods arrive in Kenya, you need to apply for a Bill of Lading, which will prompt the shipping company to hand over your goods to the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) and Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA). A Release Order will also be issued. However, before you can claim your goods, you must pay the required duty and taxes, which depend on the type of commodities you have imported.

Step 5: Pay Duty and Taxes

The amount of duty and taxes you need to pay will vary depending on the type of goods you’ve imported. For example, if you’re importing alcoholic beverages, you’ll be required to pay import duty, excise duty, import declaration fee, and VAT. On the other hand, certain items like new computers, printers, books, farm seeds, diapers, energy-saving bulbs, and solar-powered equipment are generally duty-free.

Step 6: Enter the Long Room

After you’ve paid your duty and taxes, you’ll be issued official receipts, and your goods will be taken to the “Long Room,” a unit of the Kenya Ports Authority and KRA that scrutinizes all goods entering the country. Assuming your goods have no legal issues or discrepancies, you’ll be cleared to move on to the next step.

Step 7: Collect Your Goods

Finally, you’ll be able to collect your goods. You’ll need to go to the KPA gates inside the Customs Documentations Office carrying all the necessary documents and receipts, including the Bill of Lading, custom duty/tax receipts, custom release order, and delivery order. With these documents in hand, you’ll be able to pass through the gate into the yard and collect your goods.

Last word

In conclusion, importing goods can be a great way for small businesses to expand their offerings, but the process can be complex therefore it requires careful planning and research. By following the guidelines on how to import goods through Mombasa port for your business cheaply outlined above, you’ll be able to successfully import and clear your goods at the Mombasa port. While a clearing and forwarding agent can handle most. If you are working with a reputable clearing and forwarding agent, you can successfully navigate the import process and take advantage of new business opportunities.

 

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