How do I request a physical customs re-examination for an over-assessed UK parcel?
If you believe your UK parcel has been over-assessed by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), you can request a physical customs re-examination through the official clearance process. This allows customs officers to re-inspect the goods to verify classification, quantity, condition, or declared value.
In Kenya, customs inspections are managed under the KRA Customs & Border Control Department and processed through the KenTrade Single Window System, usually with the involvement of a licensed clearing agent.
Step 1: Contact your clearing agent immediately
The first and most important step is to:
- Inform your licensed customs clearing agent
- Provide your concerns about over-assessment
- Request them to initiate a re-examination request in KenTrade
Only a licensed agent can formally submit inspection-related requests into the system.
Step 2: Submit a formal request for re-examination
Your clearing agent will lodge a request with KRA stating:
- The entry number (CUSDEC reference)
- The reason for re-examination (e.g., suspected incorrect valuation, misclassification, or incorrect declaration)
- The specific issue being disputed (value, HS code, quantity, description)
KRA may then approve a physical inspection at a bonded warehouse or customs facility.
Step 3: Customs approval and scheduling
Once approved:
- KRA assigns a customs officer for inspection
- The goods are physically verified at the designated inspection point
- The importer or agent may be required to be present
- Inspection results are recorded in the KenTrade system
Step 4: Outcome of re-examination
After physical inspection, KRA may:
- Uphold the original assessment
- Adjust HS classification or customs value
- Amend duties and taxes payable
- Release goods if discrepancies are resolved
Important conditions
- Re-examination is not automatic; it must be justified
- Goods must still be under customs control (not fully released)
- Strong supporting documents improve approval chances
- Requests must be processed through a licensed Kenyan clearing agent
Common valid reasons for re-examination
- Incorrect HS code applied
- Suspected overvaluation of goods
- Misinterpretation of product description
- Disputed quantity or package contents
- Damaged or mixed cargo requiring verification
Bottom line
To request a physical customs re-examination for an over-assessed UK parcel, you must go through a licensed Kenyan clearing agent who submits a formal request in KenTrade, after which KRA may approve and conduct an inspection to verify and potentially adjust the assessment.
For structured UK–Kenya cargo handling, dispute support, and compliant customs clearance processes, UK World Cargo Ltd works with licensed clearing agents to ensure fair inspection and accurate duty assessment.
For more information or a detailed explanation, please call or WhatsApp Abdi Haji at +44 7487 554202