What is the port wharfage calculation for a UK commercial textile import?
Wharfage for a UK commercial textile import into Kenya (typically through the Port of Mombasa) is not calculated as a percentage of invoice value. Instead, it is charged by the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) as a flat-rate port usage fee based on container type or cargo weight/volume.
1. How KPA calculates wharfage
For containerized textile imports (FCL/LCL), KPA mainly uses a per-container rate, not value-based taxation:
- 20ft container: about USD 88
- 40ft container: about USD 132
These rates apply per container passing through the port facilities. (portal.kpa.co.ke)
If textiles are not in full containers (bulk/LCL), charges may instead be based on weight:
- Dry general cargo: approximately USD 6.80 per tonne (truck clearance basis) (portal.kpa.co.ke)
2. Important textile-specific classification
For UK commercial textile imports, wharfage depends on how the cargo is handled:
A. Full Container Load (FCL textiles)
- Fixed per container rate
- Most common for UK textile shipments
- 20ft or 40ft standard charges apply
B. Less than Container Load (LCL / groupage)
- Charged per tonne or per handling unit
- May incur additional CFS handling before port release
C. Transit or bonded movement
- Same wharfage applies unless classified as transshipment (exempt in some cases)
3. What wharfage is NOT
It is important to separate wharfage from other import costs:
Wharfage is not:
- Import duty (0–25% depending on HS code)
- VAT (16%)
- IDF (2.5%)
- Railway Development Levy (1.5%)
Wharfage is simply a port infrastructure usage fee, not a tax on goods value.
4. Extra charges that may affect textiles
For UK textile imports, total port-related costs may also include:
- Container handling charges
- Storage (if clearance is delayed)
- CFS handling (for LCL cargo)
- Documentation fees
- Port security and inspection charges
These vary depending on clearance speed and cargo handling route.
5. Key takeaway
For a UK commercial textile import into Kenya:
- Wharfage is typically a flat fee per container
- Around $88 (20ft) or $132 (40ft) at Mombasa Port (portal.kpa.co.ke)
- If cargo is LCL, it is calculated per tonne instead
- It is separate from all KRA taxes (duty, VAT, IDF, RDL)
Bottom line
The port wharfage calculation for UK textile imports is primarily container-based (not value-based), with standard charges applied per 20ft or 40ft container, plus possible per-tonne charges for loose cargo.
For structured UK–Kenya textile imports, landed cost breakdowns, and smooth customs clearance handling, UK World Cargo Ltd works with licensed clearing agents to ensure accurate calculation of all port and KRA charges and avoid unexpected costs at Mombasa Port.
For more information or a detailed explanation, please call or WhatsApp Abdi Haji at +44 7487 554202