Before shipment, confirm the importer of record, HS classification, customs value, origin, duty and VAT, restricted-goods status, standards, labelling and product permits. Appoint a competent customs agent but retain internal approval: the importer remains responsible for declarations made on its behalf.

Kenya requires imported consignments to be accompanied by a certificate of origin issued by a competent authority in the exporting country. The requirement began on 1 July 2025 and moved to full enforcement on 1 October 2025, subject to official exceptions and provisional alternatives. See the KRA certificate-of-origin notice.

The import file normally includes the Import Declaration Form, customs entry, invoices, packing list, transport document and COO. Regulated goods may also need a PVoC Certificate of Conformity, Import Standardization Mark and sector permits. The invoice, packing list, COO and transport documents should use consistent descriptions and quantities.

Food, plants, animals, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, chemicals and communications equipment can require additional approvals. Clearance does not automatically mean lawful placement on the market. Confirm labelling, traceability and recall procedures.

The sale contract should allocate the importer role, COO and PVoC responsibility, Incoterm and named place, permits, inspection, storage, demurrage, rejection and recall. Exporters should assess origin, export controls, customer-country requirements and evidence supporting any preferential treatment.