If you’re planning your first import, understanding the exact process of shipping from China to Kenya can save you thousands of shillings—and a lot of stress. This guide walks you through each step, with practical examples and simple calculations so you know exactly what to expect.

Step 1: Find and Confirm Your Supplier

Start by sourcing your product from reliable platforms (e.g., Alibaba) or verified suppliers. Before placing an order:

Request a proforma invoice (PI)
Confirm product specifications and quantities
Agree on Incoterms (EXW, CIF or FOB are most common)

Example:

Product: Bluetooth speakers
Quantity: 200 units
Unit price: $5
Total product cost: $1,000

Step 2: Choose the Right Shipping Method

You have two main options:

Air Freight (Fast but Costly)

Transit: 5–10 days
Charged per kg

Sea Freight (Affordable for Bulk)

Transit: 25–40 days
Charged per CBM (cubic meter) or per container

Quick Decision Rule:

Small, urgent cargo → Air
Large, heavy cargo → Sea

Step 3: Understand Chargeable Weight (Air Freight)

Air freight uses chargeable weight, which is the higher of:

Actual weight (kg)
Volumetric weight

Formula: Volumetric Weight (kg) = (Length × Width × Height in cm) ÷ 6000

Example:

Carton size: 50 × 40 × 40 cm
Calculation: (50×40×40)/6000 = 13.3 kg
Actual weight: 10 kg

👉 Chargeable weight = 13.3 kg

If rate = $8 per kg: 👉 Shipping cost = 13.3 × 8 = $106.4

Step 4: Calculate Sea Freight Volume (LCL)

Sea freight (LCL) is charged per CBM.

Formula: CBM = Length (m) × Width (m) × Height (m)

Example:

10 cartons, each 0.05 CBM 👉 Total volume = 0.5 CBM

If rate = $120 per CBM: 👉 Shipping cost = 0.5 × 120 = $60

Step 5: Factor in Additional Charges

Shipping is not just freight. You must include:

Origin charges (China handling)
Freight cost (air/sea)
Clearance fees in Kenya
Import duty & VAT
Delivery to your location

Example Full Cost (LCL Shipment):

Freight: $60
Origin charges: $40
Clearance & local charges: KES 25,000
Duty & VAT (estimate): KES 40,000

👉 Total landed cost ≈ KES 85,000 + $100 (~KES 15,000) 👉 Approx Total = KES 100,000

Step 6: Customs Clearance in Kenya

To clear your goods, you’ll need:

Commercial invoice
Packing list
Bill of lading / Airway bill
Correct HS code classification

Mistakes here lead to delays and penalties. This is where a professional clearing agent becomes essential.

Step 7: Delivery to Your Location

After clearance, your cargo is transported to your shop, warehouse, or pickup point.

Delivery cost depends on:

Distance from port/airport
Cargo size
Handling requirements

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Choosing the cheapest shipping agent without verification
Ignoring volumetric weight (air freight surprise costs)
Not budgeting for taxes and clearance
Poor supplier communication

How Clearon Logistics Simplifies the Process

Clearon Logistics handles the entire chain so you don’t have to guess or calculate blindly.

We provide:

Supplier coordination (on request)
Air & sea freight solutions
Cargo consolidation to reduce costs
Accurate cost breakdowns
Professional customs clearance
Reliable delivery across Kenya

Instead of figuring everything out alone, you get a structured, transparent process from start to finish.

Final Thoughts

Shipping from China to Kenya becomes simple when you understand the steps and costs involved. The difference between profit and loss often comes down to planning, calculations, and choosing the right logistics partner.