What happens to a container after it leaves the Port of Mombasa?

For many importers, the port is a black box: the ship arrives, and some time later a container turns up. Understanding the steps in between helps you plan and spot where delays creep in.

Discharge at the port

When a vessel berths at the Port of Mombasa, operated by the Kenya Ports Authority, containers are discharged and either held at the container terminals or nominated to a Container Freight Station for clearance.

At the CFS or terminal

This is where clearance happens. Customs, administered by the Kenya Revenue Authority, may involve documentary checks and, where required, examination or scanning. Our guide to what a CFS is and how it works covers this stage in more detail. During this period, storage charges can build if a container overstays, so timing matters.

Release

Once duties and requirements are met, the container is released. Only then can a transporter collect it. Having documents ready in advance keeps this step short. See planning a container collection.

The road leg

A prime mover and the correct trailer collect the container and move it inland. This is the stage we handle: matching equipment to the load, securing it properly and monitoring the journey. For a fuller picture, read how container transport works from Mombasa to inland destinations.

Delivery and empty return

The container is delivered to its final destination and unpacked. Depending on the arrangement, the empty container is then returned to the agreed point. And with that, the journey that began on a ship is complete.

Planning the road leg of your next import? See our container transport services or get a quote.