Key Takeaway: Effective 3 August 2026, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) mandates an Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) Reference Code for all containerized cargo bound for Kenyan ports. The 15-digit code must be obtained at origin and endorsed on the Final Bill of Lading prior to shipment dispatch.
What is the Kenya Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD)?
The Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) is a digital pre-arrival customs filing system introduced by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) for all containerized sea cargo destined for or transiting through Kenyan ports.
Similar to Cargo Tracking Notes (CTN/ECTN) used across other African trade corridors, the Kenya ACD allows customs authorities to review shipment documentation before loading at the origin port. This system enhances trade security, improves risk management, and accelerates port clearance upon arrival.
Who Must Obtain a Kenya ACD Code?
Obtaining a valid ACD code is mandatory for all stakeholders managing containerized freight to Kenya. Responsible entities include:
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Exporters & Shippers loading containerized cargo at origin ports.
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Freight Forwarders & NVOCCs arranging sea freight documentation.
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Shipping Lines & Vessel Operators issuing Bills of Lading.
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Third-Party Logistics Providers (3PLs) overseeing East African supply chains.
Required Documents for Kenya ACD Application
To prevent rejections or delays on the KRA portal, applicants must submit clear, accurate digital copies of the following mandatory shipping documents:
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Required Document |
Purpose & Verification Focus |
|---|---|
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Draft Bill of Lading (B/L) |
Must accurately match final cargo, container numbers, and discharge details. |
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Commercial Invoice |
Must show clear line-item descriptions, values, and HS codes. |
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Freight Invoice |
Required if freight costs are not listed on the commercial invoice. |
|
Export Customs Declaration |
Official export declaration issued by origin customs authorities. |
Note: Depending on commodity type, additional supporting licenses or certificates may be requested by KRA customs.
Important Compliance Rules & Penalties
To maintain seamless port logistics, adhere strictly to these critical KRA filing guidelines:
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Pre-Loading Requirement: The ACD reference code must be requested and validated prior to cargo dispatch at the port of loading.
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Bill of Lading Endorsement: The unique 15-digit ACD Reference Code (e.g.,
ACDKE2026xxxxxx) must be clearly printed on the Final Bill of Lading. -
Non-Compliance Penalties: Shipping without an endorsed ACD code risks customs holds, severe financial fines, clearance delays, or cargo rejections at destination ports.
Why Choose Pelship Offshore for Your Kenya ACD?
Navigating changing African trade regulations requires accuracy and speed. With over 20 years of expertise in maritime logistics and regulatory compliance across 25+ African destinations, Pelship Offshore simplifies your ACD application process.
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Rapid Turnaround Times: Express verification and portal submission to keep your vessels on schedule.
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Expert Document Auditing: Pre-screening of commercial invoices and BLs to eliminate KRA rejection risks.
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Dedicated Support: A single, direct compliance specialist dedicated to your account.
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Transparent Pricing: Clear, upfront fee structures without hidden administrative surcharges.
Apply for Your Kenya ACD Reference Code
Avoid port delays and penalties. Get your Kenya Advance Cargo Declaration processed by our compliance team today.
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📧 Email: certificates@pelship.com
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📱 WhatsApp: +961 3 609 124
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🌐 Website: www.pelship.com