The Netherlands has extensive port facilities and a large logistics network that serves a majority of European countries. Shipping to the Netherlands may not be as challenging as shipping to a landlocked country, however, you will need understand a few key aspects for smooth shipping.

While there are several shipping options and service providers, you need to choose the best that will allow you have a hassle free experience without any delays. At Wakah logistics, our goal is to ensure that all our clients regardless of the shipping volumes are catered for in the best way possible.

Trade Between Kenya and the Netherlands

Trade between Kenya and the Netherlands remains relatively modest but shows increasing promise. With Kenya’s growing integration into global supply chains and the Netherlands’ position as a key European logistics and agricultural hub, both nations stand to gain from expanding trade relations. Wakah Logistics is proud to support this effort by simplifying the flow of goods between Nairobi, Mombasa, and cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague.

Current Trade Volumes and Market Outlook

Although trade volumes between the two countries are still developing, interest in bilateral commercial exchange is growing. The Netherlands imports Kenyan coffee, tea, and cut flowers, while Kenya is beginning to open its market to Dutch exports such as agricultural machinery, advanced irrigation systems, pharmaceuticals, and industrial technologies.
The Kenya and Netherlands trade corridor is further supported by trade agreements, EU partnerships, and economic forums promoting bilateral exchange, as well as the increasing role of private sector logistics companies like Wakah Logistics in facilitating trade beyond traditional markets.

Common Kenyan Exports to the Netherlands

Kenya is well known for its high-quality agricultural and natural resource-based exports. These goods have found a receptive market in the Netherlands, particularly among distributors of fresh produce, natural ingredients, and lifestyle goods. Wakah Logistics provides consolidated export services to ensure timely and cost-effective shipping of:

Tea and Coffee – Premium black teas and specialty Arabica beans are gaining popularity in Dutch cafés and specialty stores.

Fresh Produce – Avocados, pineapples, and mangoes are exported via cold-chain air freight, ensuring freshness upon arrival.

Cut Flowers – Ideal for the Netherlands’ floriculture market, especially in cities like Aalsmeer.

Textiles, Leather, and Handmade Goods – Kenyan leather accessories and woven crafts appeal to niche Dutch consumers.

Processed Foods and Skincare – Natural products with African ingredients are gaining attention in eco-conscious European markets.

Through air freight from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and containerized sea freight via Mombasa, Wakah Logistics ensures that these exports are delivered efficiently, with full customs documentation and real-time visibility.

Common Dutch Exports to Kenya

On the import side, the Netherlands offers a range of specialized industrial and consumer products that are increasingly sought after by Kenyan businesses and institutions. These include:

Agricultural Machinery – Tractors, greenhouse equipment, and irrigation systems well-suited to Kenya’s evolving argic-sector.

Pharmaceuticals and Medical Equipment – High-quality medical products and diagnostics equipment.

Construction Materials – Tiles, insulation materials, and prefabricated components used in Kenya’s infrastructure projects.

Automotive Parts and Industrial Equipment – Engines, filters, and specialized tools for transport and industrial operations.

Consumer Electronics and Household Appliances – Increasingly popular with Kenyan wholesalers and retailers.

Wakah Logistics enables full import clearance at Kenyan ports and supports inland distribution to Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Eldoret, and more. We also offer supplier verification services in the Netherlands to ensure quality and compliance.

Transit Time Estimates

Wakah Logistics offers optimized shipping schedules from Kenya to the Netherlands via both air and sea freight, depending on your cargo needs, urgency, and budget.

Air Freight: 4–6 business days (door-to-door or airport-to-door).
Ideal for time-sensitive goods like fresh produce, flowers, medical supplies, and e-commerce parcels.

Sea Freight: 20–28 days (depending on routing, port congestion, and customs clearance).

Suited for bulk shipments such as machinery, household items, dry foodstuffs, and textiles.

Wakah Logistics provides reliable air and sea freight services from Kenya to the Netherlands, offering fast, secure, and affordable delivery with expert customs support.

Required Documentation for Shipping to the Netherlands

When exporting from Kenya to the Netherlands, it’s important to prepare all necessary shipping and customs documentation in advance. Wakah Logistics helps you compile and submit the following key documents:

Commercial Invoice – Details the value, origin, and description of goods.

Packing List – Itemized list indicating packaging, quantity, and weight.

Certificate of Origin (COO) – Issued by the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce. Required for duty assessment.

Bill of Lading (Sea Freight) or Airway Bill (Air Freight) – Shipping contract and cargo receipt.

Import/Export Permits – Applicable for restricted or regulated goods.

Phytosanitary Certificate – Required for fresh produce and plant products.

Health Certificate – Necessary for food and cosmetic products.

Insurance Certificate – If cargo is insured under CIF terms.

Wakah ensures your documents comply with Dutch customs regulations and EU import standards, minimizing delays and risk of penalties.

Customs Clearance in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is known for efficient and transparent customs operations, particularly at major entry points such as the Port of Rotterdam and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. However, shipments must still comply with EU customs protocols.

Wakah Logistics facilitates the entire clearance process through:

Pre-shipment review of documentation to ensure accuracy and compliance.

Electronic customs declarations via Dutch and EU import systems.

HS Code classification and tariff calculation.

VAT and Duty Advisory, including eligibility under preferential trade regimes (e.g., GSP for Kenyan products).

Representation by licensed customs agents in both Kenya and the Netherlands.

Our clearance team keeps clients updated in real-time through Wakah’s cargo tracking dashboard, ensuring full visibility throughout the process.

Contact us now to get a quote