Why Your Cargo Is Delayed at Mombasa Port – And How to Avoid It
Mombasa Port is the busiest seaport in East Africa and a vital hub for import and export cargo clearance in Kenya. While the port is a gateway to regional trade, many businesses experience frustrating cargo delays at Mombasa Port, resulting in increased logistics costs, supply chain disruptions, and unhappy customers.
At Assure Cargo, we specialize in clearing and forwarding services in Kenya, helping importers and exporters move goods efficiently. In this article, we break down the common reasons behind cargo clearance delays at Mombasa Port and how to avoid them.
Common Reasons Why Cargo Is Delayed at Mombasa Port
- Documentation Errors During Import Cargo Clearance
One of the top reasons for delays is incomplete or inaccurate shipping documentation. Errors in invoices, Bills of Lading, or tariff codes can lead to cargo being flagged for further verification by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) or Kenya Ports Authority (KPA).
How to Avoid It:
Partner with professional clearing agents in Mombasa like Assure Cargo, who understand the documentation process and ensure all customs paperwork is correctly filed before cargo arrival.
- Customs Clearance Delays
Delays often occur due to long queues in the customs clearance process. Clearance involves several steps, including verification, duty assessment, and physical inspection – any of which can cause holdups.
How to Avoid It:
Use a reliable freight forwarding company in Kenya with experience using systems to streamline customs clearance.
- Port Congestion at Mombasa
Mombasa Port regularly experiences congestion, especially during high-import seasons or when multiple vessels arrive simultaneously. This slows down cargo unloading, inspection, and dispatch.
How to Avoid It:
Plan shipments during off-peak times and monitor vessel schedules. Assure Cargo provides proactive logistics planning to minimize waiting time at the port.
- Increased Government Inspections
Sometimes your cargo may be subjected to KEBS inspections, port health checks, or security screenings. While these are critical for compliance, they can delay cargo clearance.
How to Avoid It:
Ensure compliance with all import regulations, including pre-shipment inspections and certification. Our team ensures your cargo meets all regulatory requirements.
- Delays in Duty Payment or Valuation Disputes
Failure to pay import duties promptly or disputes over cargo valuation can delay release. Currency fluctuations or incorrect tax codes can also trigger delays.
How to Avoid It:
We help you calculate customs duty in Kenya in advance and facilitate timely payments to avoid unnecessary demurrage charges.
- Poor Coordination with Transporters
Even after clearance, your cargo may be delayed due to lack of timely truck scheduling, gate pass issues, or slow container loading.
How to Avoid It:
Use a logistics partner who manages end-to-end coordination. At Assure Cargo, we handle last-mile delivery and inland transportation for seamless logistics flow.
How Assure Cargo Helps You Avoid Delays at Mombasa Port
As one of the top clearing and forwarding companies in Kenya, Assure Cargo provides end-to-end logistics solutions including:
- Efficient cargo tracking and updates
- Expert document handling for fast customs clearance
- Seamless coordination with transporters and shippers
- Customs compliance support to avoid penalties
- Container freight station (CFS) management
We act as your logistics partner on the ground – ensuring your cargo moves fast and hassle-free through Mombasa Port.
Looking for fast and reliable cargo clearance in Kenya?
Contact us today and let’s get your goods moving – without delays
