Talking to customers every day is a gold mine source of rich information on what's our customer's pain points. There are commonly asked questions I bet you also would want to know the answers.

We've compiled a good list of everything you need to know to ship from the USA to Kenya and here we go.

Before you start wondering who are we and why are we answering these questions for you, we are Kentex Cargo based out of Delaware and Dallas Texas helping Kenyans ship from the USA to Kenya.

Let's get started with How to Questions.

You can ship from the USA to Kenya using Kentex Cargo either by air or by sea. We offer air shipments every week on Wednesday and sea shipments every last Friday of the month.

• Air shipping from the USA to Kenya: We ship by air every week on Wednesday by air. We have Monday every week as the cutoff but these days of the week may change.
  1. Assisted Shopping: Under air shipping, we have customers especially in Kenya who are not able to place their own orders online. We have assisted shopping or shop and ship where we shop on their behalf.
  2. Shipping Only: Shipping only option means you can be able to shop in the USA or you have your items with you and all you need for us to help you with is shipping your package to Kenya. All that you need to do is to create a free Kenya shipping account.
• Ocean Shipping From USA to Kenya: We ship every last Friday via ocean from the Dallas, Texas warehouse to Kenya via ocean. Just like in air shipping above, we have both assisted shopping for our customers and shipping-only options including pickup.

Create a Free Shipping Account 👇

Q: How often does Kentex Cargo ship by air from the USA to Kenya?

• A: Kentex Cargo ships by air to Kenya every Wednesday and Monday is the cutoff.

Q: What is the Assisted Shopping Program?

• A: Our Assisted Shopping Program is designed for customers based in Kenya who need assistance in shopping online. We shop on their behalf, ensuring a hassle-free purchase experience.

Q: I can shop online on my own. Do I still need to use the Assisted Shopping Program?

• A: No, if you can shop online without assistance, we offer a "shipping only" option where you can simply send us the goods for shipment without using the shopping assistance.

Q: How do you calculate the chargeable weight for air shipping?

• A: The chargeable weight is determined using the formula LxWxH/306 * $14.50. If the dead weight (actual weight) is larger than the calculated dimensional weight, we will use the dead weight for charging.

Q: Can you give an example of how chargeable weight is calculated?

• A: Certainly!

  1. Example 1: Let's say you have a package measuring 12 inches in length (L), 10 inches in width (W), and 8 inches in height (H). The dimensional weight would be: (12 x 10 x 8) / 306 = 3.14 lbs. The charge for this would be 3.14 lbs * $14.50 = $45.53.

     If the actual weight (dead weight) of the package is 5 lbs, which is greater than 3.14 lbs, you'd be charged for the 5 lbs instead.

  2. Example 2: For a package with dimensions 15 inches by 10 inches by 5 inches, the dimensional weight is: (15 x 10 x 5) / 306 = 2.45 lbs. The charge would be 2.45 lbs * $14.50 = $35.53.

     If the actual weight of this package is 2 lbs, since 2.45 lbs (dimensional weight) is larger, you'd be charged based on the dimensional weight.

Q: How long does air cargo take to get to Kenya?

• A: We promise 7-10 working days from the day your cargo has departed the US to deliver to Kenya.

Q: Does Amazon ship to Kenya from the USA?

• A: No, Amazon does not ship most goods to Kenya but Amazon has a limited list of goods they can ship to Kenya via DHL which takes about 25 working days and is quite expensive. Once goods shipped by Amazon directly get to Kenya, your receiver has to go deal with KRA to clear customs duties

Q: Where are packages picked up once they get to Kenya?

• A: Packages can be picked up at our Westlands office located on Google Maps: 67 Muthithi Road, Nairobi, or we can deliver your goods to the door.

1. How long does ocean shipping with Kentex Cargo typically take?

Ocean shipping with Kentex Cargo typically takes between 60 to 75 days, depending on factors like the specific route, weather conditions, and any potential delays.

2. Do you offer pickup services for ocean shipping?

Yes, Kentex Cargo offers pickup services for ocean shipping in certain regions. Pickup services are available in Texas, all Northeast states, Northwest, and New England states.

3. Can you provide specific pickup information?

a. Texas:

• Q: Do you offer pickup services in Texas for ocean cargo?
• A: Yes, we offer ocean cargo pickup services in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area in Texas every third Friday of the month.

b. Northeast States (Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania):

• Q: Do you offer ocean cargo pickup services in Northeast states?
• A: Yes, we provide ocean cargo pickup services in Delaware, Maryland, and Pennsylvania (PA).

c. New England States (New Jersey, New York, Massachusetts):

• Q: Is ocean cargo pickup available in New England states?
• A: Yes, we offer ocean cargo pickup services in New Jersey, New York, and Massachusetts (MA).

4. Where are Kentex Cargo's main locations for ocean shipping?

Kentex Cargo has main locations in Carrollton, Texas, and Wilmington, Delaware, which serve as hubs for ocean shipping services.

5. Are there restricted goods for ocean shipping with Kentex Cargo?

Yes, there are restrictions on certain goods for ocean shipping. It's essential to check Kentex Cargo's guidelines and consult with our team to ensure compliance with regulations and restrictions.

6. How is ocean freight charged with Kentex Cargo?

The standard rate is $30 per cubic foot with a minimum charge of $300. To calculate the chargeable amount, you can use the following formula:

Chargeable Amount = (Length x Width x Height in inches) / 1728 * $30

Here are two detailed examples to demonstrate how ocean shipping charges are calculated:

Example 1:

Let's say you have a cargo package with the following dimensions:

• Length: 48 inches
• Width: 24 inches
• Height: 18 inches

First, calculate the volume in cubic inches: Volume = Length x Width x Height = 48 x 24 x 18 = 20,736 cubic inches

Next, convert the volume to cubic feet by dividing by 1,728 (since there are 1,728 cubic inches in a cubic foot): Volume (cubic feet) = 20,736 / 1,728 = 12 cubic feet

Now, calculate the chargeable amount using the formula: Chargeable Amount = (Length x Width x Height in inches) / 1728 * $30 Chargeable Amount = (48 x 24 x 18) / 1728 * $30 = 12 cubic feet * $30 = $360

In this example, the chargeable amount for your cargo package is $360.

Example 2:

Let's consider another cargo package with these dimensions:

• Length: 36 inches
• Width: 30 inches
• Height: 12 inches

Calculate the volume in cubic inches: Volume = Length x Width x Height = 36 x 30 x 12 = 12,960 cubic inches

Convert the volume to cubic feet: Volume (cubic feet) = 12,960 / 1,728 = 7.5 cubic feet

Now, calculate the chargeable amount using the formula:

Chargeable Amount = (Length x Width x Height in inches) / 1728 * $30

= (36 x 30 x 12) / 1728 * $30 = 7.5 cubic feet * $30 = $225

In this example, the chargeable amount for your cargo package is $300.

Please note that Kentex Cargo applies a minimum charge of $300. So, even if your calculated chargeable amount is less than $300, you will be charged a minimum of $300 for ocean shipping.

7. Do you ship from Washington state and Oregon?

Yes, Kentex Cargo ships from Washington state and Oregon. We offer pickup services for boxes and barrels in these states, making it convenient for customers in the Northwest region.

Prohibited Goods:

Q: Are there any items that I cannot ship through Kentex Cargo?

• A: Yes, there are certain goods that are prohibited for air shipping. Notably, lithium batteries classified under UN3090 & UN3480 are not allowed. It's essential to check with us or review our detailed prohibited goods list to ensure the compliance of your items.

Q: Why are lithium batteries under UN3090 & UN3480 prohibited?

• A: These specific lithium batteries are classified as hazardous materials and pose risks during air transportation, such as potential fire hazards. Safety regulations prohibit their shipment through air cargo.

Q: Are there other prohibited goods besides lithium batteries?

• A: Yes, there are other items that are not allowed for air shipping due to safety, regulatory, or other concerns. It's crucial to consult our full list of prohibited goods or contact our customer service for comprehensive information.

Hazardous Materials Concerns

• Q: Why are hazardous materials not allowed for air shipping?
  • A: Hazardous materials like chemicals, flammable liquids, and explosives present safety risks during air transit. Proper packaging and documentation are essential for these items.

Kenyan Customs Restrictions

• Q: Can you elaborate on items limited by Kenyan customs?
  • A: Kenyan customs regulations are subject to change. It's essential to liaise with Kentex Cargo or Kenyan customs to stay updated on restricted or banned imports. For, example, cosmetics containing mercury and hydroquinone are prohibited in Kenya.

Firearm and Ammunition Limitations

• Q: Why can't I ship firearms and ammunition by air?
  • A: Due to stringent regulations and safety issues, firearms, ammunition, and related items are typically barred. Shipping these necessitates special permits and paperwork and as Kentex Cargo, we are not willing to deal with those red tapes. Anything gun-related, including toy guns and gin holsters, cannot be shipped.

Drug and Narcotic Prohibitions

• Q: Why are illegal drugs and narcotics included in the prohibited goods list?
  • A: Shipping illicit drugs or controlled substances is illegal and may lead to legal ramifications. Kentex Cargo strictly adheres to all pertinent regulations.
  • Please note CBD oils and supplements are strictly prohibited in Kenya

Perishable Goods Concerns

• Q: What are the challenges with shipping perishables by air?
  • A: Items needing refrigeration or specific storage conditions might not be apt for air shipment. Special care, packaging, and considerations for transit times and temperatures are crucial. With that said, we do not ship perishable goods.

Live Animals in Air Transport

• Q: Why isn't air shipping suggested for live animals?
  • A: Air transit can be strenuous and perilous for live animals. Coordinating with expert animal transport services like FedEx is typically required.

Counterfeit Product Restrictions

• Q: Why can't I ship counterfeit goods?
  • A: Counterfeit or unauthorized items are often illicit and may lead to confiscation or legal proceedings. Shipping such products can attract legal penalties. 

Flammable Materials Restrictions

• Q: Are there any limitations on shipping flammable materials by air?
  • A: Indeed, due to the inherent fire and explosion hazards, flammable materials like liquids and gases are barred. They are subject to strict regulations.

Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco Products

• Q: Can I ship alcoholic beverages and tobacco products by air?
  • A: Alcoholic beverages and tobacco products often have strict import regulations and duties. They may be subject to import restrictions or prohibitions in Kenya. We do not ship items under this category.

Pressurized Containers

• Q: Why are pressurized containers not allowed in air cargo?
  • A: Pressurized containers, such as aerosol cans and gas cylinders, can explode under the pressure changes experienced during air travel, presenting a significant safety risk.

Corrosives and Reactive Substances

• Q: Can I ship corrosive or reactive chemicals by air?
  • A: No, corrosive substances like acids and reactive chemicals that can release toxic gases or explode when mixed with other substances are prohibited due to the hazards they present during transport.

Radioactive Materials

• Q: Are radioactive materials permitted for air shipping?
  • A: Radioactive materials are strictly prohibited due to the potential harm they can cause to people and the environment, as well as the specialized handling they require.

Magnetized Materials

• Q: Why can't I ship magnetized materials by air?
  • A: Strong magnetized materials can interfere with an aircraft's navigational instruments. They are, therefore, restricted from air transport to ensure flight safety.

Oxidizing Agents

• Q: Can I ship oxidizing agents through air cargo?
  • A: Oxidizing agents, which can promote combustion, are deemed hazardous and are not permitted in air shipments because of the potential risks they pose during transportation.

Poisons and Infectious Substances

• Q: Why are poisons and infectious substances prohibited in air cargo?
  • A: Poisons and infectious substances can pose serious health threats. The risks associated with leaks or spills during transport make them unsuitable for air shipping.

Organic Peroxides and Self-reactive Substances

• Q: Are organic peroxides allowed in air shipping?
  • A: Organic peroxides and self-reactive substances, which can undergo decomposition in certain conditions, are prohibited due to the inherent risks of explosion or fire during transit.

Currency and Precious Metals

• Q: Can I ship large amounts of currency or precious metals by air?
  • A: Shipping large amounts of currency or precious metals often requires special arrangements and may be subject to customs regulations and potential theft. It's recommended to consult with Kentex Cargo and relevant authorities before shipping these items.