So how much does it take to start importing items from the UK so that you can sell them here in Kenya or any other country in Africa?
Well, this is a common question I get from potential entrepreneurs who want to expand their horizons by transacting in the international markets.
I have been doing lots of research about it but information has been scanty until finally i caught up with one logistics expert who was kind enough to share the finer details with me.
Here’s how the quick interview went on.
Q: How much does it cost to import a bale of used ex-UK toys to Kenya?
A: The cost will depend on the type of toys you want to import and their weight but roughly a bale of let’s say 50kg will be around Ksh.350 per kg or a total of Ksh.17,500 per bale. The rates are however subject to change due to exchange rates and cost of shipping or air freight. And any body in Africa can get the product from Kenya ports such as Mombasa
Q: How can I import from UK when I am here in Kenya or any other African country ?
A: You don’t have to make a trip all the way to the UK. You only need to link up with foreign suppliers through online portals like gumtree.com where you can place an order. After you place an order you then contract a logistics firm in Kenya to help you with shipment, custom clearance and delivery to your preferred destination.
Q: Which duty or taxes apply to sending those toys from UK to Kenya?*
A: In order for your imported goods to be allowed into the country (Kenya) you will be required to pay 16% of the total value of goods as Value Added Tax (VAT) in addition to 25% excise duty. That is to say if you import a 50Kg bale of used toys at the price of Ksh.17,500 then you can expect to pay Ksh.4,400 Excise duty and Ksh.2,800 VAT. This payment will of course be made on your behalf by the logistics firm of your choice.
Q: If I import some toys from the UK how long will it take for me to receive them in Nairobi or any town in Africa?
A: The duration of time taken will depend on the mode of transport that you opt for. For instance, if you opt for air transport (which is a bit expensive) then you can receive your items in 1 to 3 days. If you opt for shipping (a bit cheaper) then you will have to wait for 21 days from the first day of shipment.
*Q: What other items can one import from the UK to start a small business with here in Kenya?*
A: You can import second hand (mitumba) clothes, used bikes, baby pushchairs, electrical appliances, used gym equipment and motor vehicle spare parts. Usually, these items are sold at cheap prices and you can mark up the price and make good returns back here at home.
Tips For Importing From The UK
In order to purchase an item from the UK you first need to shop around and create connections with merchants. You can do this through your friends in Europe or through online classifieds sites like https://www.gumtree.com . The option of online shopping is more practical and cost effective but it comes with a fair share of risks.
After you have identified the items that you want to ship, you will then place an order. Payment can be done through bank-wire transfer, mobile money transfer or Paypal according to the seller’s terms and conditions.
Afterwards, you can contact a UK-to-Kenya logistics firm which will help you by collecting the goods from the merchants, paying taxes and delivering to Kenya.
For the purposes of this article I consulted James Kamau of Kankam Exporters Limited a leading logistics firm with offices in Nairobi and the UK.
Located in: Ukulima Co - Operative House
Address: Ukulima House, Nairobi Central, Starehe
Phone: 0774 769475
*Written By*: Justine Nyachieo
Business Man & Mentor
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