Kenya’s exports are gaining global recognition for their quality, freshness, and competitiveness. From fresh-cut flowers and avocados to handcrafted textiles and manufactured goods, Kenyan exporters are reaching markets across Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas. However, the success of any export operation hinges on reliable logistics. That’s where Wakah Logistics, a trusted freight forwarder in Kenya, comes in.

Wakah Logistics provides end-to-end export solutions tailored to the unique needs of Kenyan exporters, offering customs clearance, documentation, packaging, air and sea freight, and warehousing all under one roof.

Whether you’re a small-scale farmer or an established exporter, Wakah Logistics ensures your goods reach their destination swiftly and safely.

Why Choose Wakah Logistics for Export Services?

Experience and Market Knowledge

Wakah has years of hands-on experience handling Kenyan exports to markets including the UAE, UK, China, and beyond. This includes in-depth knowledge of customs protocols, international shipping regulations, and tariff preferences such as AGOA and EAC trade benefits.

Comprehensive Export Services

At Wakah Logistics, we provide complete export solutions designed to serve businesses of all sizes from farmers to large manufacturers. Our end-to-end services ensure your goods move smoothly from origin to international markets.

✅ Air and Sea Freight Coordination:
We facilitate both air and ocean freight services, offering flexible transit options based on your delivery timeline and cargo nature. From perishables to industrial machinery, we select the optimal mode of transport to match your needs.

✅ Packaging and Labeling for Export:
Our expert team ensures that all cargo is professionally packaged and labeled according to international safety, handling, and compliance requirements. This reduces damages, ensures regulatory approval, and enhances brand image.

✅ Cargo Consolidation and Warehousing:
Whether you’re a small business exporting in low volumes or a manufacturer shipping pallets weekly, we offer warehousing and consolidation services in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Eldoret to save you on freight costs and optimize loads.

✅ Export Documentation and Customs Clearance:
Wakah handles all critical export paperwork including commercial invoices, packing lists, CoOs (Certificate of Origin), KEBS certification, and phytosanitary documents. We also manage submissions through the KenTrade system and facilitate customs clearance.

✅ Cold Chain for Perishables:
From flowers and fruits to pharmaceuticals, our temperature-controlled logistics (refrigerated trucks and cold storage) maintain freshness throughout the export journey crucial for EU and Middle East markets.

✅ Pickup and Farm-to-Port Logistics:
Our fleet collects cargo from farms, factories, or warehouses across Kenya. We then consolidate and prepare it for shipment, ensuring compliance with export protocols.

✅ Last-Mile Delivery in Destination Countries:
Through our global logistics partners, we offer delivery to the final consignee or distribution center in over 40 countries, including airport clearance and in-country delivery services.

Technology-Enabled Operations

Wakah Logistics leverages modern logistics technology to give clients control and visibility over their export shipments.

    Customer Portal Access: Log in to view shipment schedules, download key documents, and monitor real-time progress of your consignments.

    WhatsApp Real-Time Updates: Get alerts on customs release, flight departures, delays, and deliveries, all sent directly to your mobile.

    Digital Document Management: Say goodbye to paperwork Wakah digitizes invoices, customs forms, and certificates for seamless online access.

    Customer Support Dashboard: Interact with your dedicated customer success agent through a shared portal or chat, ensuring fast resolution of inquiries.

    Custom Solutions for Different Exporters

    No two exporters are the same and Wakah understands this. We create flexible, industry-specific logistics plans based on your cargo, volume, budget, and timelines.

    Small Exporters: We provide LCL and cargo consolidation services for SMEs shipping a few cartons or pallets. Ideal for craftspeople, farmers, and e-commerce brands.

    Large Exporters: Wakah supports bulk shipments through FCL and chartered air freight, with dedicated space for regular exports of textiles, tea, and processed goods.

    Agro Exporters: We offer farm pickups, cold chain handling, KEBS and phytosanitary support, and fast documentation processing for flowers, vegetables, and fruits.

    Industrial Exporters: Our team handles container loading, export insurance, HS code classification, and port handling for heavy or hazardous goods.

    Diaspora Market Exporters: Whether you’re sending gifts, retail inventory, or samples, Wakah offers reliable last-mile solutions to popular destinations like the UAE, UK, and USA.

    Wakah Logistics Export Services

    Air Freight Export Services

    Wakah offers fast, reliable air export solutions from Kenya’s major airports (especially JKIA) to more than 50 global cities.

    Key Features:

    Fast transit (2–5 days to major international hubs)

    Consolidation and scheduled weekly flights to Europe, Asia, and Middle East

      Airport-to-airport or door-to-door shipping

      Priority handling for fragile, time-sensitive, and valuable items

      Common Air Freight Export Goods:

      Fresh-cut flowers (roses, carnations)

      Fresh fruits and vegetables (avocados, French beans)

      Pharmaceuticals and medical supplies

      Textiles and apparel for fast fashion markets

      Sample shipments and e-commerce packages

        Sea Freight Export Services

        Wakah’s sea freight solutions out of Mombasa Port are ideal for large, bulky, or non-urgent cargo.

        Services Offered:

        Full Container Load (FCL) shipping for single-shipper high-volume exports

        Less-than-Container Load (LCL) shipping for cost-efficient groupage

          Flexible delivery modes: port-to-port, port-to-door, or door-to-door

          Strong network of global shipping lines and ocean freight partners

          Best for:

            Coffee, tea, pulses, and cereals

            Processed foods and canned products

            Furniture, leather goods, and metal products

            Industrial and construction machinery

            Export Process Flow

            Here’s how Wakah simplifies your export journey:

            Client Onboarding: Submit your cargo details (type, weight, destination, volume) and get a free quote.

              Pickup & Consolidation: Our team collects goods from your premises or drop-off centers and consolidates them at our depots.

              Packaging & Labeling: We ensure international compliance and cargo safety through secure packaging.

              Documentation Support: We prepare commercial invoices, packing lists, export licenses, KEBS/phyto certs, and Certificate of Origin.

              KenTrade Submission & Clearance: We file your documents via the national KenTrade portal and coordinate customs inspections.

              Freight Booking: Depending on your preference, we book the best-suited air or sea carrier.

              Live Tracking: Monitor every stage of the journey via our customer portal or WhatsApp notifications.

              Delivery: Cargo is delivered to the buyer or consignee at the destination address or port.

              Export Destinations Served

              Wakah Logistics exports to over 50 countries globally, with specific regional expertise:

                East & Central Africa: Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, South Sudan

                Middle East & Asia: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, India, China, Turkey

                Europe: UK, Netherlands, Germany, France, Italy

                Americas: USA, Canada, Mexico, Brazil

                Diaspora Channels: We support re-exports via UAE to regions such as Australia, West Africa, and Eastern Europe.

                  Exporting Perishables from Kenya with Wakah Logistics

                  Kenya is a major global exporter of fresh produce such as cut flowers, fruits (avocados, mangoes, pineapples), vegetables, and herbs. These perishable goods require a high degree of care, speed, and compliance. Wakah Logistics provides specialized services to ensure your perishables arrive in top condition.

                  Cold Chain Logistics Services

                  Wakah has invested in advanced cold chain infrastructure to maintain the freshness and integrity of your perishable exports from farm to final destination:

                  Refrigerated trucks for farm-level pick-ups and last-mile deliveries

                  Temperature-controlled warehouses in Nairobi and Mombasa for pre-export staging

                  Pre-cooling and vacuum cooling units to rapidly remove field heat

                  Real-time temperature monitoring across the entire supply chain

                  Whether it’s exporting fresh flowers to Amsterdam, baby corn to the UK, or mangoes to Dubai, Wakah ensures compliance with cold chain standards including HACCP and IATA CEIV Fresh.

                  Air Freight for Perishables

                  Air freight is the most preferred method for shipping perishables due to speed and minimized spoilage. Wakah provides:

                  Transit times of 2 to 5 days to key international destinations

                  Frequent flights from JKIA Nairobi to Europe, Middle East, Asia, and the Americas

                  Dedicated perishable cargo flights with temperature-controlled holds

                  IATA CEIV Fresh-certified processes for quality and handling assurance

                  Our partnerships with leading airlines ensure priority bookings, reduced delays, and specialized cargo space.

                  Sea Freight for Select Perishables

                  For certain perishables with longer shelf lives, Wakah offers reefer container shipping by sea. These containers are equipped with:

                    Controlled temperature and humidity settings

                    Data loggers for monitoring conditions in transit

                    Ideal for:

                      Avocados (to Europe)

                      Pineapples (to Middle East)

                      Semi-processed vegetables and dried herbs

                      Sea freight offers lower costs per kilo and is recommended for bulk shipments where slight delays won’t affect product quality.

                      Packaging & Labelling Support

                      Wakah understands the vital role of packaging in perishable logistics. Our team supports exporters with:

                      Ventilated and insulated cartons

                      Food-grade plastic liners for moisture retention

                      Humidity control packs to extend freshness

                      Barcoding and international labeling (temperature indicators, CoO stamps, EU compliance marks)

                      Custom packaging solutions are available for exporters dealing with produce or unique market requirements.

                      Export Documentation & Compliance

                      When it comes to international shipping especially for perishables such as fresh produce, flowers, fish, and meat accurate and compliant documentation is not just a requirement; it is the lifeline of successful export. Even a minor omission or delay in paperwork can result in port detentions, rejections at destination countries, financial penalties, or irreversible spoilage.

                      At Wakah Logistics, we take charge of end-to-end documentation preparation, verification, submission, and tracking, ensuring that all paperwork meets both Kenyan and international regulatory standards. Here’s a breakdown of the essential documents and how Wakah facilitates their acquisition:

                      Commercial Invoices with HS Codes

                      We prepare detailed commercial invoices showing:

                        Product description

                        Quantity and unit pricing

                          Harmonized System (HS) codes for customs classification

                          Exporter and importer details
                          These invoices serve as the primary basis for customs valuation, duties, and cross-border clearance. Wakah ensures HS codes are correctly applied to avoid misclassification, which can result in delays or legal issues.

                          Packing Lists

                          Packing lists specify:

                          Number and types of packages (e.g., cartons, crates, pallets)

                          Weight (gross and net)

                          Packaging type (e.g., vacuum-sealed, insulated boxes)

                          Container or cargo unit IDs
                          These details are essential for port handlers, shippers, customs officers, and consignee verification.

                          Phytosanitary Certificates (KEPHIS)

                          For exports of plants, flowers, fruits, vegetables, and other plant-based products:

                          Wakah coordinates with KEPHIS (Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service) for inspections

                          We ensure compliance with the destination country’s plant health standards

                          Digital applications are submitted through the e-phyto system and KenTrade for faster turnaround

                          Certificate of Origin (CoO)

                          Issued by Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) or relevant bodies

                          Proves the product’s Kenyan origin

                          Enables your cargo to benefit from preferential duty rates under trade agreements such as EAC, COMESA, AGOA (USA), or EPAs (EU)

                          KEBS Certification for Food Safety

                          For consumables and sensitive exports, we ensure:

                            Certification through Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS)

                            Pre-shipment conformity (PVoC) for designated markets

                            Lab testing results when required

                            EU MRL (Maximum Residue Levels) Compliance

                            Fresh produce exported to Europe must comply with:

                            Strict pesticide residue thresholds

                            Documentary proof of MRL compliance

                            Traceability data (farm location, chemical use logs)
                            Wakah coordinates with exporters to collect, verify, and submit these records to avoid shipment rejections in markets like Germany, France, and the Netherlands.

                              Export Permits, Licenses, and Clearances

                              Depending on your product category (e.g., minerals, meat, fish, timber), Wakah secures:

                              Export permits from relevant ministries or regulatory agencies

                                CITES licenses for wildlife-related items

                                Veterinary and fisheries certificates where applicable

                                Digital Filing Through KenTrade & KRA

                                All export documentation is processed via:

                                KenTrade’s National Electronic Single Window System

                                iCMS (Integrated Customs Management System)
                                We coordinate with Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), and other government agencies to streamline the approval process and reduce turnaround time.

                                Summary of Compliance Support by Wakah

                                DocumentIssuing BodyWakah Role
                                Commercial InvoiceExporterPrepared & reviewed by Wakah
                                Packing ListExporterVerified for cargo handling
                                Phytosanitary CertificateKEPHISCoordinated & collected
                                Certificate of OriginKNCCI or Export CouncilApplication & issuance support
                                KEBS Quality CertificationKEBSPre-shipment inspection and advisory
                                EU MRL Compliance FileExporter + LabsData compilation & verification
                                KenTrade SubmissionsNational PlatformDigital filing on your behalf
                                KRA ClearanceKRADuties, bond release, and customs filing

                                Value-Added Export Services

                                Wakah Logistics offers more than just freight services. We provide a full suite of value-added solutions tailored to support Kenyan exporters throughout their trade journey from sourcing and quality control to risk mitigation and market readiness. These services are especially useful for SMEs, agri-exporters, and first-time international traders.

                                ✅ Assisted Sourcing & Supplier Verification

                                If you’re exporting Kenyan products but working with third-party suppliers:

                                We verify the legitimacy of the supplier (site visits, registration checks)

                                Confirm product quality and volumes before packaging

                                Facilitate procurement negotiations where needed

                                This service helps prevent fraud, substandard supply, and delayed deliveries.

                                ✅ Customs Advisory & Compliance Audits

                                We offer:

                                Pre-export customs audits to check for inconsistencies in HS codes, valuation, and documentation

                                Advisory on applicable trade tariffs, export incentives, and duty refund schemes

                                Guidance on export quotas, bans, or embargoed items

                                This ensures long-term compliance.

                                ✅ Repackaging, Labelling & Cargo Inspection

                                Many international markets (especially the EU and GCC countries) demand:

                                Specific labelling (barcodes, origin tags, expiry dates)

                                Repackaging to meet their retailer or customs standards
                                Wakah has the facilities and personnel to:

                                  Repackage items at our Nairobi and Mombasa facilities

                                    Add compliant labeling in English, French, or Arabic

                                    Perform visual inspection for damage or contamination

                                    ✅ Trade Finance & Export Insurance Support

                                    Exporters often face working capital constraints and exposure to buyer default. Wakah connects clients with:

                                    Trade finance institutions for invoice discounting, LC (letter of credit), and factoring

                                    Export credit insurers who provide protection against non-payment, political risk, or currency fluctuations
                                    This ensures you don’t just ship but get paid securely.

                                    ✅ Documentation Translation & Legalization

                                    For countries requiring official translations or embassy-stamped documents:

                                    We provide notarized translations into French, Spanish, Arabic, or Chinese

                                    Coordinate with embassies and consulates for document legalization
                                    This is especially useful for markets like the Middle East, North Africa, and parts of Asia.

                                    ✅ Temperature-Controlled Cargo Handling

                                    Perishable exports like flowers, fish, and meat require cold chain logistics. Wakah provides:

                                    Cold storage at consolidation hubs

                                    Chilled containers for air and sea freight

                                    Coordination of “cool-to-door” deliveries with cold room integration

                                    Importing into Kenya – Processes, Costs, and Tips

                                    Importing goods into Kenya can be lucrative, but it requires navigating a structured and compliance-driven process. From understanding customs requirements to selecting the right freight method, importers must plan meticulously to avoid penalties, delays, or seizure of cargo. Wakah Logistics helps individuals and businesses simplify imports by managing each step of the supply chain—whether by air, sea, or road.

                                    Here’s a breakdown of what’s involved when importing into Kenya.

                                    Step-by-Step Import Process into Kenya

                                    Pre-Import Planning

                                    Before shipping, importers must:

                                      Confirm the product is allowed for import (check the Kenya TradeNet portal for restrictions).

                                      Ensure the supplier provides a proforma invoice and packing list.

                                      If necessary, obtain import permits (e.g., for medical items, electronics, or agricultural chemicals).

                                      Wakah assists by validating product eligibility and ensuring required permits are in place.

                                      Register on iTax and KenTrade

                                      Every importer must be registered with:

                                      Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) via iTax

                                      KenTrade through the National Electronic Single Window System

                                      Wakah handles registration support for new importers and SMEs.

                                      Appoint a Clearing Agent

                                      All import declarations and customs procedures must be completed by a licensed clearing agent. Wakah Logistics is authorized and fully compliant to act on your behalf.

                                      Obtain the Import Declaration Form (IDF)

                                      An IDF is mandatory for all commercial imports above USD 1,000 in value. To obtain it:

                                      Provide the invoice, packing list, and supplier contract

                                      Pay the IDF processing fee (2% of CIF value)
                                      Wakah submits your IDF online and tracks approval status through KenTrade.

                                        Pre-Verification of Conformity (PVoC)

                                        Kenya mandates that regulated products undergo quality inspection before departure. This is known as the PVoC (Pre-Verification of Conformity) process.

                                        Handled by authorized agencies like SGS, Bureau Veritas, or Intertek

                                        Results in a Certificate of Conformity (CoC)

                                        Imports without CoC attract heavy penalties or outright rejection at the port. Wakah coordinates this process directly with overseas inspection agents.

                                        Customs Declaration via iCMS

                                        Once goods arrive at the port or airport:

                                        Wakah files a customs declaration on iCMS (Integrated Customs Management System)

                                        Provides all necessary documents including:

                                        • Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
                                        • Certificate of Conformity
                                        • Commercial Invoice and Packing List
                                        • Certificate of Origin
                                        • IDF
                                        • Customs assigns a Risk Channel (Green, Yellow, or Red) for inspection

                                        Cargo Clearance and Delivery

                                        After assessment, duties are paid, and customs clearance is issued:

                                          • Green: Immediate release
                                          • Yellow: Document verification
                                          • Red: Physical inspection required
                                          • Wakah handles port clearance, arranges inland transport, and delivers to your warehouse or store.

                                          Import Duties, Taxes, and Fees in Kenya

                                          Importing goods into Kenya incurs several government levies based on the declared customs value (CIF – Cost, Insurance, and Freight). Below is a breakdown:

                                          Levy/TaxRateApplicability
                                          Import Duty0%–25%Based on product HS code
                                          VAT (Value Added Tax)16%On CIF + Duty
                                          Import Declaration Fee (IDF)2%On CIF
                                          Railway Development Levy (RDL)1.5%On CIF
                                          Excise Duty (Selective)VariesOn alcohol, soft drinks, cosmetics, etc.
                                          Withholding Tax6%On certain services

                                          Wakah calculates exact customs charges using KRA’s Tariff Lookup tool and provides pre-shipment estimates to help you plan.

                                          Commonly Imported Items into Kenya

                                          Wakah facilitates importation of:

                                          Electronics (phones, laptops, TVs)

                                          Automobiles & spare parts

                                          Textiles and fashion items

                                          Household goods and furniture

                                          Industrial equipment and tools

                                          Medical devices and pharmaceuticals

                                          Construction materials

                                          Cosmetics and personal care products

                                          We offer assistance in checking standards, ensuring conformity with KEBS, and advising on proper HS codes.

                                          Freight Options for Imports

                                          Air Freight

                                          Ideal for lightweight or urgent cargo

                                          Transit time: 1–7 days depending on origin

                                          Served via JKIA (Nairobi) and Mombasa Airport

                                          Suitable for electronics, high-value goods, samples, and pharmaceuticals

                                          Sea Freight

                                            Most cost-effective for large volumes

                                            LCL (Less than Container Load): You share space in a container

                                            FCL (Full Container Load): You book the whole container

                                            Main port of entry: Port of Mombasa

                                              Courier & E-Commerce Packages

                                              Used for B2C or low-volume importer

                                              Processed via DHL, FedEx, Aramex, and simila

                                              Requires minimal documentation

                                              Wakah manages freight bookings, port coordination, and final-mile delivery across Kenya.

                                              Pro Tips for Importing into Kenya

                                              Use Accurate HS Codes
                                              Incorrect HS codes lead to higher taxes or seizure. Wakah helps verify the correct classification.

                                              Declare True Value of Goods
                                              Undervaluation is illegal. Wakah ensures your declaration aligns with market prices to avoid fines.

                                              Factor In All Landing Costs
                                              Total costs include:

                                              Freight charges

                                              Customs duties and taxes

                                              Port handling and demurrage

                                              Inland transport

                                              Work with a Certified Clearing Agent
                                              Avoid delays and mistakes by appointing a KRA-licensed agent like Wakah.

                                              Monitor Clearance Timelines
                                              Delays attract storage and demurrage costs. Wakah tracks your consignment in real time.

                                              Use Pre-Alert System
                                              Inform us before cargo lands so we begin clearance procedures early.

                                              Build Buffer Time into Planning
                                              Clearance may take 3–7 days depending on product type, customs inspections, and port congestion.

                                              Take Advantage of Duty Exemptions (Where Applicable)
                                              Exemptions are available for:

                                              Diplomatic shipments

                                              Donor-funded good

                                              Special industrial machinery
                                              Wakah advises clients on eligibility and application processes.

                                              Conclusion

                                              Wakah Logistics is more than a freight forwarder it’s a trusted partner in Kenya’s export economy. With industry expertise, a vast logistics network, and modern infrastructure, Wakah empowers Kenyan exporters to compete globally.

                                              Whether you’re sending a single consignment of fresh herbs or regular FCL shipments of tea, Wakah ensures your goods reach their destination safely, affordably, and on time.

                                              Get in touch today and take your exports global with Wakah.