How do I generate a KRA e-slip for a large commercial UK import bill?

If you are importing a large commercial shipment from the UK into Kenya, a KRA e-slip (Electronic Payment Slip) is generated after customs has assessed your shipment and calculated the taxes payable. The e-slip is then used to pay Import Duty, VAT, Railway Development Levy (RDL), Import Declaration Fee (IDF), Excise Duty (where applicable), and any other customs charges before your cargo can be released. (Kenya Revenue Authority)

For most commercial imports, the e-slip is generated as part of the customs clearance process by a licensed clearing agent after the customs declaration has been submitted. KRA’s import clearance process specifically states that the appointed clearing agent makes the customs declaration and provides the importer with a payment slip for tax payment. (Kenya Revenue Authority)

Step 1: Complete the Import Documentation

Before an e-slip can be generated, customs will require supporting documents such as:

• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
• Import Declaration Form (IDF)
• KRA PIN Certificate
• Certificate of Origin (where applicable)
• Import permits for regulated goods

These documents are used to determine the customs value and applicable taxes. (Kenya Revenue Authority)

Step 2: Submit the Customs Declaration

For large commercial imports, the clearing agent submits the customs entry into the customs system.

The declaration includes:

• Importer details
• HS Codes
• Customs value
• Product descriptions
• Freight and insurance costs
• Applicable tax calculations

Once submitted, customs officers review the declaration and assess the taxes payable. (Kenya Revenue Authority)

Step 3: Customs Assessment and Valuation

Customs officers verify:

• Product classification
• Transaction value
• Supporting invoices
• Quantity and weight
• Applicable duty rates

If customs is satisfied with the declaration, the system calculates the taxes due and generates the payment information. (Kenya Revenue Authority)

Step 4: Generation of the KRA e-Slip

After assessment, an Electronic Payment Slip is generated showing:

• Payment Registration Number (PRN)
• Import Duty
• VAT
• IDF
• RDL
• Excise Duty (if applicable)
• Total amount payable

KRA confirms that customs duties are paid after generation of an Electronic Payment Slip. (Kenya Revenue Authority)

Step 5: Verify the Assessment Before Payment

For large commercial shipments, it is advisable to review:

• Customs value
• HS Codes
• Tax calculations
• Product descriptions

This is particularly important when the duty bill is substantial.

Mistakes in classification or valuation can significantly affect the final amount payable.

Step 6: Pay the Import Bill

Once the e-slip is issued, payment can be made through:

Approved Banks

KRA states that customs duties can be paid at appointed banks using the generated payment slip. (Kenya Revenue Authority)

Mobile Banking

Payment can also be made through approved mobile banking platforms after e-slip generation. (Kenya Revenue Authority)

M-Pesa

Where applicable, the Payment Registration Number (PRN) can be used as the payment reference when making electronic payments.

Step 7: Obtain Payment Confirmation

After payment:

• Keep the bank receipt
• Save payment confirmations
• Share proof of payment with your clearing agent

Customs clearance can then proceed toward cargo release. (Kenya Revenue Authority)

What If the Import Bill Is Very Large?

Large commercial imports often involve substantial duty payments.

Importers should:

• Verify customs valuation carefully
• Review HS Code classifications
• Check freight and insurance declarations
• Confirm all supporting documents are accurate

Even small valuation errors can significantly affect tax liability on high-value shipments.

Common Reasons e-Slip Generation Is Delayed

Delays may occur if:

• Customs valuation is under review
• Documents are incomplete
• Invoices are missing
• HS Codes are disputed
• Additional inspections are required
• KRA requests supporting evidence

Resolving these issues usually allows assessment and e-slip generation to continue. (Kenya Revenue Authority)

Can I Generate the e-Slip Without a Clearing Agent?

For most large commercial UK imports, the customs declaration process is normally handled through a licensed clearing agent who submits the customs entry and obtains the payment slip from the customs system. KRA’s published import process indicates that the appointed clearing agent provides the importer with the payment slip after declaration and assessment. (Kenya Revenue Authority)

How Can UK World Cargo Help?

UK World Cargo assists importers with:

• UK warehouse services
• Commercial freight forwarding
• Container shipping
• Air freight shipping
• Sea freight shipping
• Customs documentation guidance
• Cargo tracking
• Customs clearance support

For large commercial imports, early preparation of documentation and valuation information can help reduce delays and avoid costly clearance issues.

Final Thoughts

To generate a KRA e-slip for a large commercial UK import bill, the shipment must first be declared through the customs system, assessed by customs officers, and assigned the applicable taxes and levies. Once assessment is complete, an Electronic Payment Slip is generated showing the total amount payable. The importer can then pay through approved banks or mobile banking platforms before customs release is granted. Because large commercial shipments often involve significant tax liabilities, it is important to ensure that invoices, HS Codes, and customs values are accurate before the declaration is submitted. UK World Cargo can help businesses navigate the shipping, documentation, and customs clearance process for imports from the UK to Kenya.

For more information or a detailed explanation, please call or WhatsApp

Abdi Haji at +44 7487 554202.