Customs Clearance Services For Imports Arriving at JKIA

Wakah Logistics provides customs clearance services for imports arriving at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), helping clients legally and efficiently bring goods into Kenya. Here’s what that involves:

What Customs Clearance Means

Customs clearance is the process of preparing and submitting documentation to facilitate the import (or export) of goods into a country. It ensures that the goods meet Kenyan legal requirements and that all applicable taxes and duties are paid.

How the Process Works at JKIA

1. Arrival of Goods
   When your goods arrive at JKIA, they are handed over to the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and the Kenya Airports Authority for inspection and clearance.
2. Document Submission
   Wakah Logistics collects all required documentation from you and submits them through the KRA iCMS system for customs processing.
3. Duty and Tax Assessment
   Customs officials assess the applicable taxes and duties based on the declared value, product classification (HS Code), and type of goods.
4. Inspection and Verification
   Some items may be subject to physical inspection or scanning to verify their content against documentation.
5. Payment and Release
   Once all duties are paid, and documentation is verified, your cargo is released for pickup or last-mile delivery.

Documents Required for Customs Clearance

• Airway Bill (AWB)
• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Import Declaration Form (IDF) – Wakah helps you apply for this.
• Certificate of Conformity (COC) – For regulated items, especially electronics, food, and cosmetics.
• Import Permits – If required (e.g., for pharmaceuticals, food, chemicals).
• PIN Certificate of Importer
• Authorization Letters (if we act on your behalf)

Guidance on What Not to Import into Kenya

Certain items are prohibited or highly restricted:

• Banned items: Narcotics, counterfeit currency, prohibited chemicals, pornographic material, certain used electronics, and some second-hand clothing.
• Restricted items (need special clearance/permits): Firearms, live animals, medical equipment, pharmaceuticals, alcohol, and tobacco.

Wakah can advise you in advance if your goods fall into any of these categories.

How long does it take for Customs Clearance  at JKIA

The customs clearance process at JKIA typically takes between 1 to 3 working days, assuming all documentation is in order and the goods are not flagged for special inspection.

Here’s a breakdown of possible timelines:

Factors That Can Delay Clearance:

• Incomplete or incorrect documentation
• Lack of necessary permits or CoC
• Random or risk-based inspection by KRA
• Weekends, public holidays, or system outages
• High traffic periods like Black Friday or December

Wakah Logistics speeds up the process by:

• Pre-clearing documents before goods arrive
• Monitoring cargo closely with customs systems
• Engaging directly with customs officers on-site at JKIA
• Advising you in advance on what to prepare

Would you like a visual timeline or checklist for your clients?

How Wakah Logistics Makes Customs Clearance Seamless

• ✅ End-to-End Handling: We collect documents, liaise with KRA, and deliver your cleared goods to your doorstep.
• ✅ Real-Time Updates: You receive regular updates on your cargo’s clearance status.
• ✅ Expert Advisory: We advise on proper documentation, product classification, and legal requirements.
• ✅ Fast-Tracking Where Possible: For regular clients or time-sensitive cargo, we prioritize speed and compliance.
• ✅ Customs Brokerage Support: Our licensed clearing agents are on the ground at JKIA daily to ensure nothing stalls.

Contact us today for a seamless Customs clearance process.