Buying from suppliers in China is one of the most common reasons Kenyan businesses need a freight partner. Eagle Tail Logistics coordinates the whole journey: freight from the supplier’s location, customs clearance in Kenya and delivery to your premises.
Sea freight or air freight from China?
The right option depends on your cargo and your deadline. Sea freight is a practical choice for larger or less time-critical consignments, in a full container or as consolidated cargo. Air freight suits urgent, high-value or lighter goods where transit time matters more than cost. Our guide to air freight vs sea freight walks through the trade-offs, and the LCL vs FCL guide helps you decide how much container space you need.
How we help with China to Kenya shipments
- Shipment and route planning based on your cargo details.
- Sea freight in full-container or consolidated options, and air freight for urgent cargo, subject to availability.
- Door-to-door pick-up coordination and management of shipping documents.
- Customs documentation and clearance coordination in Kenya.
- Inland transport and delivery to your warehouse in Nairobi or elsewhere in Kenya.
Before your supplier ships
Most delays and unexpected costs come from decisions made before the goods leave the factory. Check these with your supplier early:
- Agree the trade terms (for example FOB or CIF) so it is clear who arranges and pays for each leg.
- Make sure the commercial invoice and packing list match the goods exactly: description, quantity, weights and values.
- Confirm the product classification and whether your goods need any standards approval or permit in Kenya.
- Ask for carton dimensions and gross weight so freight can be planned accurately.
- Make sure your business is set up to import and ready to declare the consignment. Our import checklist explains the steps.
What to send us for a China to Kenya quote
- Supplier name and the city or port the goods will leave from.
- Commodity description and number of packages.
- Dimensions and gross weight, or the total volume.
- Cargo-ready date and the date you need the goods in Kenya.
- Whether you need collection, customs clearance and delivery to your door.
Prices and timing
Freight rates, schedules, taxes and third-party charges change with the route, season and cargo. We confirm them against your actual shipment details rather than quoting a one-size-fits-all figure.
Frequently asked questions
How long does shipping from China to Kenya take?
Transit time depends on the mode, the route, the carrier schedule, the port and customs processing. Air freight is generally the faster option and sea freight the more economical one. We give an estimate after reviewing your shipment details.
Can you ship small quantities from China?
Where consolidated (shared container) options are available we can discuss them for smaller consignments. Availability depends on the origin, volume and schedule, so share your cargo details for a recommendation.
Do you collect from the supplier in China?
We coordinate door-to-door pick-up and manage the shipping documents where this is arranged. Tell us the supplier location when you request a quote.
Do you also clear the goods in Kenya?
Yes. We provide customs brokerage and clearance coordination for import consignments, and can arrange delivery to your warehouse after clearance.
Who pays duties and taxes?
Duties and taxes in Kenya are assessed on the goods and their value, and are paid by the importer. We explain the charges that apply to your consignment as part of the process.
