What is a Container Freight Station (CFS) and how does it work?
If you import through Mombasa, you'll often hear that your container has been moved to a "CFS". For many first-time importers that raises more questions than it answers. Here's what a Container Freight Station is and why it matters for your cargo.
What a CFS actually is
A Container Freight Station is a licensed facility that operates as an extension of the Port of Mombasa, used to receive, store, examine and release containerised cargo away from the quayside. Moving containers off the port to a CFS helps ease congestion and creates space for clearance to take place. The Kenya Ports Authority and the Kenya Revenue Authority are the main authorities involved in port and customs operations.
Why your container might be sent to a CFS
Not every container is cleared at the terminal. Some are nominated to a specific CFS, where they wait for clearance, examination and collection. Your shipping line or clearing agent will usually tell you which facility your container has gone to.
What happens at the CFS
At the CFS, customs processes administered by the Kenya Revenue Authority may include documentary checks and, where required, physical examination or scanning of the container. Once duties and requirements are satisfied and the container is released, it can be collected for onward transport.
Storage, free days and demurrage
Containers usually come with a limited number of free storage days, after which charges apply. These periods vary by shipping line and facility, so it's worth confirming yours early. Timing your collection well is the simplest way to control cost. See our guide to CFS storage costs and demurrage.
Getting your container moving
Once released, a container should move promptly. Arranging transport as soon as the release is confirmed keeps everything inside the free period where possible. Our guide to planning a container collection walks through what to have ready.
Frequently asked questions
Is a CFS the same as the port? No. A CFS is a separate licensed facility that works as an extension of the port, mainly for clearing and storing containerised cargo.
Who decides which CFS my container goes to? Nomination is generally handled through the shipping line and clearance process, not the transporter. Your clearing agent can confirm the facility.
Can you collect from any CFS in Mombasa? We collect from CFS facilities as part of our container and CFS transport services. Tell us the facility and we'll plan around your release.
Need a container moved from a CFS? Get a quote or read more on our FAQ page.