Avoid Demurrage: The True Cost of Poor Customs Planning

If you think customs clearance ends at the port, you’ve already lost the deal.

Most importers in Kenya learn this the hard way — after their container has already landed, and the port yard starts sending demurrage invoices.
It’s not the taxes that ruin most shipments. It’s the hidden costs that pile up when you don’t plan your customs clearance properly.

1. The Hidden Cost of “I’ll Handle It When It Arrives”

Let’s break down what happens when you wait until the cargo docks.

You get the Arrival Notice. You rush to gather documents — invoices, bill of lading, IDF, inspection certificates — but one or two are missing.
You call the supplier. They promise to “send tomorrow.” Meanwhile, the container clock is ticking.

Every 24 hours, yard storage fees accumulate — KPA storage, shipping line demurrage, warehouse handling.
In just one week, that delay could easily add KES 80,000 to 150,000 in unnecessary charges.

And that’s before you even start talking about clearance penalties or port congestion.

2. Why Customs Planning Isn’t Paperwork — It’s Strategy

Many businesses treat customs as a formality, yet it’s a key part of supply chain strategy.
A wrong HS code can attract 25% duty instead of 10%.
A missing import declaration can mean weeks of delay at the port.

Smart importers — the kind who scale sustainably — start their customs process before they even buy. They know the tariff codes, confirm valuation, and pre-clear cargo while the vessel is still at sea.

That’s what Seaways does for clients daily. We pre-check documents, classify goods correctly, and lodge entries early so the moment your ship berths, clearance starts immediately.

3. How to Plan Like a Pro (and Save Millions)

1. Classify early — Confirm your HS codes before shipment.
   
2. Use trusted agents — Cheap brokers can cost you double in penalties.
   
3. Go digital — Track your clearance through iCMS or with a Seaways dashboard.
   
4. Pre-pay duty — Avoid “system down” delays when your container is due for release.
   

4. The Real Benefit — Predictability

Good customs planning doesn’t just save money; it builds predictability.
You can promise delivery dates confidently, manage cash flow, and maintain supplier trust.

At Seaways, we’ve cleared shipments that arrive in Mombasa on Monday and are delivered in Nairobi by Friday — not because of shortcuts, but because of foresight.

In trade, ignorance is the most expensive commodity.

👉 Learn how our Customs Clearance & Transportation service keeps your goods moving:
https://seaways.net/our-services/customs-clearance-transportation/

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