Exporting to Kenya and Calculating Shipping Freight with Freight Forwarders

When exporting goods to Kenya, using the services of a freight forwarder is a common practice. Freight forwarders handle all the complexities of shipping, from arranging transportation to customs clearance. One of the key components of using a freight forwarder is the calculation of shipping freight. Here's how you can calculate the Express shipping cost when exporting to Kenya:

1. Research and Select a Freight Forwarder:
First, research and select a reliable freight forwarder with experience in shipping to Kenya. Consider factors such as their reputation, services offered, and cost-effectiveness.

2. Provide Details of Your Shipment:
Provide the freight forwarder with details about your shipment, including the type of goods, weight, volume, and any specific requirements.

3. Determine Shipping Method:
Freight forwarders offer various shipping methods, such as air freight, sea freight, or land transport. The choice depends on the nature of your goods and the time frame for delivery.

4. Calculate Freight Cost:
The cost of shipping is determined by several factors, including the weight of your shipment, the distance to be covered, and the chosen shipping method. Freight forwarders typically charge based on one of these methods:

a. Per kilogram or per pound rate: This is a fixed rate per unit of weight, which varies depending on the distance and shipping method.

b. Volumetric pricing: Some freight forwarders may charge based on the volume of your shipment, especially for bulky items.

c. Flat fee or fixed price: Some freight forwarders may offer a fixed price for specific types of shipments to Kenya.

5. Additional Fees and Charges:
Besides the basic freight cost, there may be additional fees such as handling fees, customs clearance fees, insurance costs, and other related expenses. Make sure to inquire about all additional charges before finalizing the shipping arrangement.

6. Use Freight Calculation Tools:
Freight forwarders often provide online tools or calculate the freight cost manually. You can use these tools to get an estimated cost based on the details of your shipment.

7. Negotiate and Agree on Terms:
Discuss the final cost with your freight forwarder and ensure that there are no hidden costs or unexpected charges. Agree on all terms and conditions before finalizing the shipment arrangement.

In conclusion, calculating the shipping freight for exporting to Kenya using a freight forwarder involves providing details about your shipment, determining the shipping method, calculating the freight cost based on weight, volume, and additional fees, and negotiating terms with the freight forwarder. Make sure to select a reliable and experienced freight forwarder to ensure smooth and cost-effective shipping of your goods to Kenya.