A glossary of common cargo and freight terms

Freight has a language of its own, and it can be baffling if you're new to it. Here are the terms you're most likely to meet when moving cargo through Mombasa, explained simply. Where a term deserves a fuller answer, we've linked to a dedicated guide.

Port and facilities

Port of Mombasa: the main sea gateway for Kenya and the region, operated by the Kenya Ports Authority.
CFS (Container Freight Station): a licensed facility near the port where containers are stored, examined and released; see what a CFS is.
ICD (Inland Container Depot): a container facility located inland; see CFS vs ICD.

Documents and clearance

Bill of Lading: a core shipping document issued by the carrier.
Clearance: the customs process, administered by the Kenya Revenue Authority, that must be completed before cargo is released.
Release: the point at which a container can be collected for transport. More in freight documents explained.

Storage and cost

Free days: the limited period cargo can stay at a facility before charges apply.
Demurrage: charges that accrue when a container overstays; see avoiding demurrage.

Cargo and equipment

Prime mover: the truck (tractor unit) that pulls a trailer.
Container vs general cargo: moving a sealed container versus loose or palletised goods; see the difference.
Transit cargo: goods moving through Kenya to another country, as opposed to a domestic movement that stays within Kenya.

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