Customs clearing agents in Kenya play a critical role in helping importers, exporters, manufacturers, traders, NGOs and individuals move goods legally across borders.
A customs clearing agent is a licensed company or professional authorised to handle customs procedures on behalf of a client. In Kenya, customs agents operate under the authority of the Kenya Revenue Authority through the Commissioner of Customs and Border Control.
Their work includes preparing customs entries, submitting declarations, processing import and export documents, advising clients on duties and taxes, assisting with cargo release, liaising with port and border authorities, and ensuring that goods comply with Kenyan customs laws.
For businesses importing goods through the Port of Mombasa, Inland Container Depot Nairobi, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Malaba, Busia, Namanga or other entry points, choosing a licensed customs clearing agent is one of the most important steps in avoiding delays, penalties and unnecessary storage charges.
This guide explains what customs clearing agents do, why licensing matters, how to verify an agent, and examples of licensed customs clearing agents in Kenya.
What Is a Customs Clearing Agent?
A customs clearing agent is a company licensed by KRA to conduct customs clearance procedures on behalf of importers and exporters.
The agent acts as a link between the cargo owner and government agencies involved in import and export control. These may include KRA, Kenya Ports Authority, Kenya Bureau of Standards, Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service, port operators, shipping lines, airlines, container freight stations and other regulatory bodies.
A clearing agent does not own the cargo unless separately contracted. The agent’s main role is to help the owner comply with customs requirements and move goods through the clearance process.
Main Duties of Customs Clearing Agents in Kenya
Customs clearing agents handle several important tasks.
| Duty | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Customs declarations | Prepare and submit customs entries through KRA systems |
| Import documentation | Process import documents such as invoices, packing lists and bills of lading |
| Export documentation | Assist exporters with declarations and clearance requirements |
| Tax computation | Help clients understand customs duty, VAT, import declaration fees and other charges |
| Agency representation | Act on behalf of clients during customs clearance |
| Cargo release | Coordinate release of goods after payment and approval |
| Compliance support | Ensure goods meet legal and regulatory requirements |
| Port coordination | Work with port, CFS, shipping line and transport operators |
| Border clearance | Help clear cargo at land borders and customs stations |
| Record keeping | Maintain customs documents for future reference and audits |
Why You Should Use a Licensed Customs Clearing Agent
Using a licensed agent protects you from avoidable customs problems.
Kenya’s import and export procedures involve many documents, taxes, rules and deadlines. A mistake in tariff classification, value declaration, permit requirements or documentation can cause cargo delays and extra costs.
A licensed clearing agent helps reduce those risks.
A good agent understands KRA customs systems, port procedures, taxes, permits, cargo handling and documentation standards. The agent also knows how to communicate with shipping lines, transporters, warehouses and government agencies.
Requirements to Become a Customs Agent in Kenya
To operate legally, a customs clearing agent must meet KRA licensing requirements.
These requirements may include company registration, tax compliance, bond clearance, clearance from relevant industry bodies and access to the Integrated Customs Management System.
Common KRA Licensing Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
| Application form | Duly filled Form C20 |
| Company registration | Current CR12 or CR13 for the company or partnership |
| Tax compliance | Valid Tax Compliance Certificate for the company |
| Bond and debt clearance | Certificate of Bond and Debt Clearance |
| Previous licence | Copy of previous C21 licence for renewals |
| KIFWA clearance | Valid KIFWA Clearance Certificate where required |
| Annual licence fee | Paid after approval according to KRA requirements |
| Customs bond | Execution of required customs bond |
| ICMS access | Payment and training for access to KRA’s customs system |
KRA may update requirements, so applicants should always check the latest public notice or official KRA customs agents page before applying or renewing.
List of Licensed Customs Clearing Agents in Kenya
The official KRA customs clearing agents list is long and includes more than 1,000 companies. Below is a useful sample of licensed customs clearing agents commonly found in the published schedule.
| No. | Licensed Customs Clearing Agent |
| 1 | Acceler Global Logistics Limited |
| 2 | Agility Logistics Limited |
| 3 | Aramex Kenya Limited |
| 4 | Bahari Forwarders Limited |
| 5 | Bima Clearing & Forwarding Limited |
| 6 | Car & General (Kenya) Plc |
| 7 | Cargill Kenya Limited |
| 8 | CEVA Interfreight Kenya Limited |
| 9 | Chai Trading Company Limited |
| 10 | Conventional Cargo Conveyors Limited |
| 11 | Cornerstone Limited |
| 12 | Davis & Shirtliff Limited |
| 13 | Deccan Freight Logistics Limited |
| 14 | DHL Global Forwarding Kenya Limited |
| 15 | DHL Worldwide Express Kenya Limited |
| 16 | ESL Forwarders Limited |
| 17 | Expolanka Freight Limited |
| 18 | Fox International Logistics Limited |
| 19 | Freight Forwarders Kenya Limited |
| 20 | Freight In Time Limited |
| 21 | General Cargo Services Limited |
| 22 | Global Freight Logistics Limited |
| 23 | Global Tea & Commodities Kenya Limited |
| 24 | Indus Logistics Limited |
| 25 | James Finlay Mombasa Limited |
| 26 | Kate Freight and Travel Limited |
| 27 | Kenfreight EA Limited |
| 28 | Kenya Airways Plc |
| 29 | Kuehne + Nagel Limited |
| 30 | Logistics Three Six Five Limited |
| 31 | Logwin Air and Ocean Kenya Ltd |
| 32 | Mitchell Cotts Freight Kenya Limited |
| 33 | Ocean-Line Freight Forwarders Limited |
| 34 | One To One Logistics Kenya Limited |
| 35 | Precise Logistics Limited |
| 36 | Regional Entrepreneurs Kenya Limited |
| 37 | Rising Freight Limited |
| 38 | Seacon Kenya Limited |
| 39 | Smart Choice Services Limited |
| 40 | Speedex Logistics Limited |
| 41 | Transfreight Logistics Limited |
| 42 | Ufanisi Freighters Kenya Limited |
| 43 | Union Logistics Limited |
| 44 | United Clearing Company Limited |
| 45 | Urgent Cargo Handling Limited |
| 46 | Vinep Forwarders Limited |
| 47 | Vision Enterprises Limited |
| 48 | Afriq Freight Services Limited |
| 49 | AGL Kenya Limited |
| 50 | Airflo Limited |
More Licensed Customs Clearing Agents in Kenya
The wider list also includes many other firms and institutions licensed or listed for customs clearance purposes.
Examples include:
| No. | Licensed Customs Clearing Agent |
| 51 | All Ports Kenya Limited |
| 52 | Cargomasters East Africa Limited |
| 53 | Continental Logistics Network Limited |
| 54 | County Clearance & Forwarding Limited |
| 55 | East Global Logistics Kenya Limited |
| 56 | Ecu Worldwide Kenya Limited |
| 57 | Excellent Service Freighters Limited |
| 58 | Goldfields Logistics Limited |
| 59 | Imaan Logistics Limited |
| 60 | Index Cargo Logistics Limited |
| 61 | Intraspeed Arcpro Kenya Limited |
| 62 | Jihan Freighters Limited |
| 63 | Kenafric Industries Limited |
| 64 | Kenya Wine Agencies Limited |
| 65 | Landmark Freight Services Limited |
| 66 | Logistics Link Limited |
| 67 | LPC Global Logistics Limited |
| 68 | Maersk Logistics and Services Kenya Limited |
| 69 | Najmi Clearing and Forwarding Limited |
| 70 | Oceansky Clearing Agents Limited |
| 71 | P.N. Mashru Limited |
| 72 | Ray Cargo Services Limited |
| 73 | Rolling Cargo Limited |
| 74 | Schenker Limited |
| 75 | Siginon Group Limited |
| 76 | Skylift Cargo Limited |
| 77 | Sote Forwarders Limited |
| 78 | Starway International Freight & Forwarders Limited |
| 79 | Super Quick Freighters Limited |
| 80 | Supersonic Freighters Kenya Limited |
| 81 | The Nairobi Clearing House East Africa Limited |
| 82 | Top-Link Logistics Services Limited |
| 83 | Weston Logistics Limited |
| 84 | Wickham Bros Company Limited |
| 85 | Wigglesworth Exporters Limited |
| 86 | Access Africa Logistics Limited |
| 87 | Adair Freight Services Limited |
| 88 | Admiral Cargo Concept Limited |
| 89 | Adroit Logistics Limited |
| 90 | Aeromarine Cargo Services Limited |
| 91 | Afrique Shipping Services Limited |
| 92 | AGS Worldwide Movers Limited |
| 93 | Air Sea Logistics Limited |
| 94 | Alibhai Ramji Mombasa Limited |
| 95 | All Cargo Global Logistics Limited |
| 96 | All Marine Services Limited |
| 97 | Alpha Worldwide Freight Limited |
| 98 | Apex Steel Limited |
| 99 | Approved Logistics Limited |
| 100 | Ascent Freight Logistics Limited |
Other Notable Names in the KRA Customs Agents List
The KRA list also includes courier companies, manufacturers, logistics firms, shipping agencies, cargo handlers and specialised freight operators.
Examples include:
| Agent | Category / Known Area |
| FedEx Express Kenya Limited | Courier and express logistics |
| G4S Kenya Limited | Security logistics and courier services |
| Fargo Courier Limited | Courier and logistics |
| DP World Logistics EA Limited | Global logistics and supply chain |
| Siginon Group Limited | Freight, warehousing and logistics |
| Schenker Limited | International freight forwarding |
| Mitchell Cotts Freight Kenya Limited | Freight and port logistics |
| Kenfreight EA Limited | Shipping, freight and customs clearance |
| Kuehne + Nagel Limited | Global freight forwarding |
| Maersk Logistics and Services Kenya Limited | Shipping and logistics |
Importers should confirm that the specific company is active, licensed and suitable for the type of cargo being cleared.
How to Verify a Licensed Customs Clearing Agent in Kenya
Before hiring a clearing agent, verify the licence.
You can do this by checking the official KRA list of licensed customs clearing agents or contacting KRA directly.
When verifying, confirm:
- Company name
- Licence status
- Validity date
- KRA PIN where available
- Office location
- Contact details
- Experience in your cargo category
- Whether the agent has access to KRA customs systems
- Whether the agent has a clean compliance record
Do not rely only on social media adverts or informal recommendations.
How to Choose the Right Customs Clearing Agent
Not all clearing agents are suitable for every shipment.
A company importing machinery may need a different level of technical support from a person importing a used car or a trader importing household goods.
Factors to Consider
| Factor | Why It Matters |
| KRA licence | Confirms the agent is legally authorised |
| Experience | Reduces mistakes in declarations |
| Cargo specialisation | Some agents handle vehicles, perishables, bulk cargo or project cargo better |
| Office location | Agents near Mombasa, JKIA or Nairobi ICD may be more convenient |
| Communication | Good updates help avoid confusion |
| Transparency | Charges should be clear before work begins |
| Reputation | Reliable agents protect clients from delays |
| Documentation | Proper record keeping supports compliance |
| Timeliness | Delays can increase storage and demurrage costs |
| Professional memberships | Industry bodies may help show seriousness |
Documents Importers Usually Give to Clearing Agents
The documents needed depend on the goods being imported.
Common documents include:
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Bill of lading or airway bill
- Import Declaration Form
- Certificate of conformity where required
- KRA PIN certificate
- Import permits where applicable
- Insurance documents
- Vehicle logbook or export certificate for motor vehicles
- Product-specific certificates
- Exemption letters where applicable
- Purchase documents
- Tax payment evidence
Your clearing agent should advise you on the exact requirements for your shipment.
Common Customs Clearance Mistakes to Avoid
Importers can lose money because of avoidable mistakes.
Common errors include:
- Hiring an unlicensed agent
- Declaring the wrong value
- Using the wrong tariff code
- Failing to apply for required permits
- Ignoring KEBS requirements
- Submitting incomplete documents
- Delaying duty payment
- Not confirming shipping-line charges
- Waiting too long after cargo arrival
- Failing to track demurrage and storage deadlines
- Trusting agents without written agreements
A professional licensed agent should help prevent these problems.
Customs Clearing Agent vs Freight Forwarder
A customs clearing agent and a freight forwarder are related, but they are not always the same.
| Role | Main Function |
| Customs clearing agent | Handles customs declarations and clearance with KRA |
| Freight forwarder | Arranges cargo movement, shipping, transport and logistics |
| Clearing and forwarding company | May provide both customs clearance and logistics services |
Many companies in Kenya provide both clearing and forwarding services, but importers should confirm exactly what is included in the quotation.
Where Customs Clearing Agents Operate in Kenya
Licensed customs clearing agents operate across major cargo points.
These include:
- Port of Mombasa
- Inland Container Depot Nairobi
- Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
- Moi International Airport
- Malaba border
- Busia border
- Namanga border
- Lunga Lunga border
- Isebania border
- Taveta border
- Eldoret and other customs stations
- Export processing zones
- Bonded warehouses
- Container freight stations
The best agent for your shipment may depend on where your goods arrive.
Kenya Revenue Authority Contacts
For customs-related verification and support, taxpayers can contact KRA through official channels.
| Contact Type | Details |
| Phone | +254 20 4 999 999 |
| Mobile | +254 711 099 999 |
| [email protected] | |
| Headquarters | Times Tower, Haile Selassie Avenue, Nairobi |
Always use official KRA contacts for licence verification, tax questions and customs compliance guidance.
Key Takeaways
- Customs clearing agents in Kenya are licensed by KRA through the Commissioner of Customs and Border Control.
- They help importers and exporters prepare declarations, process documents and clear cargo.
- Importers should use licensed agents only.
- KRA publishes official lists of licensed customs clearing agents.
- The list includes local and international logistics companies, courier firms, manufacturers and specialist freight operators.
- Licensing requirements include Form C20, CR12 or CR13, Tax Compliance Certificate, bond and debt clearance, previous C21 licence for renewals and KIFWA clearance where required.
- Agents may also need to pay licence fees, execute customs bonds and access the ICMS system.
- Always verify the agent before handing over money or shipment documents.
- Choosing the wrong agent can cause delays, extra costs and compliance problems.
- For official confirmation, contact KRA directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a customs clearing agent in Kenya?
A customs clearing agent is a company licensed by KRA to handle customs clearance procedures on behalf of importers or exporters.
Who licenses customs clearing agents in Kenya?
Customs clearing agents are licensed by the Commissioner of Customs and Border Control under the Kenya Revenue Authority.
Why do I need a customs clearing agent?
You need a clearing agent to help prepare customs declarations, submit documents, pay taxes correctly and clear goods through customs systems.
Can I use any clearing agent in Kenya?
No. You should only use a KRA-licensed customs clearing agent.
How do I verify a clearing agent in Kenya?
Check the official KRA list of licensed customs clearing agents or contact KRA through official channels.
What documents do customs agents process?
They process documents such as commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, airway bills, import declarations, permits, tax documents and release documents.
Are clearing agents the same as freight forwarders?
Not always. A clearing agent handles customs clearance, while a freight forwarder arranges shipping and transport. Some companies do both.
Where do customs clearing agents operate?
They operate at ports, airports, inland container depots, border posts, bonded warehouses and customs stations.
What happens if I use an unlicensed agent?
You may face delays, fraud risks, penalties, cargo release problems and compliance issues.
What is KRA’s customer care contact?
KRA can be contacted through +254 20 4 999 999, +254 711 099 999 or [email protected].
Conclusion
Customs clearing agents in Kenya are essential players in import and export logistics.
They help businesses and individuals move goods through customs legally, efficiently and with fewer risks. Whether you are importing a vehicle, machinery, electronics, food products, raw materials or personal cargo, the right agent can save you time and prevent costly mistakes.
The most important rule is simple: use a licensed customs clearing agent.
Before hiring any agent, verify the company on the KRA list, confirm its licence status, ask for clear charges and make sure it has experience with your type of cargo.
Kenya’s customs system is detailed, and mistakes can be expensive. A professional licensed agent helps you comply with the law, clear goods faster and protect your shipment from unnecessary delays.
Read Also: Filing KRA Returns Via WhatsApp: A Simple Guide for Kenyans
