What Is the Delivery Order Issuance Fee Charged by UK Shipping Lines in Kenya?
When importing cargo from the UK to Kenya, one of the charges that importers often encounter is the Delivery Order (DO) issuance fee. This fee is typically paid to the shipping line or its appointed local agent before cargo can be released for customs clearance, collection, or onward transportation.
Understanding how Delivery Order fees work can help importers budget accurately and avoid unexpected costs during the cargo release process.
What Is a Delivery Order?
A Delivery Order is an official document issued by a shipping line or its authorized representative that authorizes the release of cargo to the consignee or their appointed clearing agent.
The document confirms that:
- The shipment has arrived.
- Shipping line requirements have been satisfied.
- Applicable charges have been settled.
- The cargo can proceed to the next stage of clearance and collection.
Without a valid Delivery Order, cargo cannot normally be released from the port, Container Freight Station (CFS), or Inland Container Depot (ICD).
What Is the Delivery Order Issuance Fee?
The Delivery Order issuance fee is an administrative charge levied by the shipping line or its local agent for processing and issuing the Delivery Order.
The fee helps cover:
- Documentation processing
- Cargo verification
- Administrative handling
- Release authorization procedures
- Shipping line operational costs
The exact fee varies depending on the shipping line, cargo type, shipment size, and current tariff structure.
Is There a Standard Delivery Order Fee for All UK Shipments?
No.
There is generally no universal Delivery Order fee that applies to all cargo arriving from the UK.
The amount may vary based on:
Shipping Line Policies
Each shipping line establishes its own destination and documentation charges.
Container Type
Fees may differ between:
- 20ft containers
- 40ft containers
- 40ft High Cube containers
- Less-than-Container Load (LCL) shipments
Cargo Category
Commercial cargo, personal effects, project cargo, and consolidated shipments may have different administrative requirements.
Agent Charges
Local shipping agents may apply service-related charges in accordance with their operational procedures.
What Other Charges May Accompany a Delivery Order Fee?
Importers may also encounter:
- Documentation fees
- Container handling charges
- Port charges
- Container deposit requirements
- Customs clearance costs
- Storage charges
- Equipment handling fees
- Cargo release processing charges
The total cost of cargo release is therefore usually higher than the Delivery Order fee alone.
When Is the Delivery Order Fee Paid?
The fee is typically paid after:
Cargo Arrival
The shipment arrives at Mombasa Port or the designated cargo facility.
Documentation Verification
The shipping line confirms shipment details and consignee information.
Charge Assessment
Applicable destination charges are calculated.
Payment Processing
The importer or clearing agent settles the required fees.
Delivery Order Release
The Delivery Order is issued once payment has been confirmed.
How Can Importers Avoid Delays?
Prepare Documents Early
Ensure all shipment documents are available before cargo arrival.
Verify Charges in Advance
Request a breakdown of destination charges before initiating cargo release.
Use Experienced Logistics Professionals
Professional freight coordinators can help manage documentation and payment procedures efficiently.
Respond Quickly to Requests
Prompt communication helps prevent unnecessary delays.
Why Choose UK World Cargo Ltd?
UK World Cargo Ltd specializes in shipping cargo from the UK to Kenya and provides complete logistics support throughout the import process. Their experienced team assists with freight forwarding, cargo consolidation, customs coordination, documentation management, cargo tracking, delivery order processing, warehousing, and inland transportation.
Whether you are importing personal effects, commercial stock, pallets, barrels, or full container loads, UK World Cargo Ltd can help ensure a smooth cargo release process while minimizing delays and administrative challenges.
Conclusion
The Delivery Order issuance fee charged for UK shipments arriving in Kenya varies depending on the shipping line, cargo type, shipment size, and local agent procedures. Because there is no single standard fee applicable to all shipments, importers should obtain current charge information for their specific consignment before cargo arrival. UK World Cargo Ltd can help coordinate the entire shipping and cargo release process, ensuring efficient movement of goods from the UK to Kenya.
For more information or a detailed explanation, please call or WhatsApp Abdi Haji at +44 7487 554202