Importer & Exporter of Record Services in Kenya
Kenya is East Africa’s leading technology and logistics hub, with strong demand for IT, telecom, medical, and industrial equipment. However, importing into Kenya requires strict compliance with KEBS standards, PVoC (Pre-Export Verification of Conformity), and Certificate of Conformity (CoC) requirements, along with layered duties and VAT.
For companies without a local entity, these requirements can result in shipment delays, revaluation issues, or penalties. With a trusted IOR/EOR partner, you can operate in Kenya seamlessly—ensuring compliant imports, predictable costs, and smooth delivery.
IOR & EOR Responsibilities in Kenya
In Kenya, the IOR Kenya is legally responsible for customs compliance, while the Exporter of Record (EOR) manages export documentation and regulatory obligations.
Our responsibilities include:
Acting as your legal importer/exporter in Kenya
Managing end-to-end customs clearance with KRA and KEBS
Paying duties, VAT (16%), and additional levies
Handling PVoC / CoC / ISM certification processes
Ensuring correct HS classification and valuation
Filing export declarations and maintaining compliance records
Supporting temporary imports, returns, and RMA shipments
Kenya Trade Compliance Snapshot
Indicator | Details |
|---|---|
VAT | 16% |
Import Duties | 0–25% depending on HS code |
Additional Taxes | 3.5% IDF + 2% Railway Development Levy |
Clearance Time | 3–7 working days |
Regulatory Authorities | KRA, KEBS |
Key Entry Points | Nairobi (NBO), Mombasa Port |
Top Import Sectors | IT, Telecom, Medical, Industrial |
When Do You Need IOR or EOR Services in Kenya?
You should use an IOR/EOR service if:
You don’t have a registered Kenyan entity
You’re importing goods requiring KEBS / PVoC / CoC certification
Your products need Import Standardization Mark (ISM) approval
You want to ship under DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) terms
You’re handling RMA shipments, repairs, or replacements
You want to avoid customs delays, revaluation, or penalties — proactive cross-border compliance Kenya frameworks covering classification, valuation, and screening prevent these exposures before goods reach the border.
How We Help – Sector-Specific Solutions
Sector | Needs | Our Support |
|---|---|---|
IT & Telecom | KEBS PVoC, CoC, ISM compliance | Permit handling, HS classification, customs clearance |
Medical Devices | Regulatory approvals, labeling | Documentation and compliant import handling |
Industrial Goods | Standards conformity under KEBS | Standards conformity under KEBS |
Aviation | Safety regulations, specialized handling | Import coordination and documentation |
Understanding Duties, VAT & DDP in Kenya
Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) services help manage all import costs and compliance — understanding duties and taxes on imports into Kenya, including the layered IDF and RDL levies that apply on top of standard tariff rates, is essential before committing to a DDP structure. Including:
Duties & taxes
0–25% import duty, 16% VAT on CIF + duties, plus IDF (3.5%) and RDL (2%)
Additional charges
Kenya applies multiple levies beyond the standard import duty
Compliance risks
Incorrect valuation or classification can lead to delays or penalties
Key considerations
VAT is applied on total landed cost (CIF + duty + levies); HS accuracy is critical
DDP advantage
Prepay all duties and levies for predictable costs and smooth clearance
Be in the Know
Enter your email to receive the PDF download link.
Our Full IOR & EOR Service in Kenya Includes
Legal representation as Importer & Exporter of Record
KEBS, PVoC, CoC, and ISM coordination
HS classification and documentation handling
Duty, VAT, IDF, and RDL payment processing
Customs clearance and broker coordination
Temporary imports and RMA support
Real-time shipment tracking and compliance updates
Why Choose IOR EOR for Kenya?
Regulatory Expertise
Deep knowledge of KEBS, PVoC, CoC, and KRA requirements
No Local Entity Required
Operate in Kenya without establishing a company
End-to-End Compliance
From permits to delivery, fully managed
DDP & Cost Control
Transparent landed cost with no surprises
Industry Focus
Specialists in IT, telecom, and regulated equipment
Get Your IOR / EOR Solution in Kenya Today
Importing into Kenya requires strict compliance with standards, taxes, and documentation. With IOR/EOR services, you gain a trusted partner to manage customs, duties, and regulatory requirements—ensuring fast, compliant, and risk-free operations.
Start your Kenya imports with confidence:
FAQs
Yes, importing into Kenya requires a locally registered entity to act as the Importer of Record (IOR). This entity is responsible for customs clearance, regulatory compliance, and payment of duties and taxes. If you do not have a local presence, an IOR service provider can act on your behalf.
PVoC (Pre-Export Verification of Conformity) is a mandatory inspection process conducted before shipment to ensure goods meet Kenyan standards. A Certificate of Conformity (CoC) is issued after successful verification and must be presented during customs clearance for many regulated products.
In Kenya, VAT (16%) is calculated based on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value of the goods, plus any applicable customs duties, levies, and other charges incurred before clearance.
Yes, shipping under DDP terms is possible, but it requires a legally registered importer in Kenya. Typically, companies without a local entity will appoint an Importer of Record (IOR) provider to manage compliance and handle duties and taxes.
Customs clearance usually takes 3 to 7 working days, provided all documentation is complete and accurate. The timeline may vary depending on inspections and regulatory checks.
Common causes of delays include missing or invalid CoC/PVoC documentation, incorrect product valuation, misclassification of goods, or incomplete shipping and customs paperwork. Ensuring full compliance before shipment helps avoid these issues.
