How do I generate a KRA e-slip to pay customs duties for a UK import valuation?

A KRA e-slip (Electronic Payment Slip) is the payment document used to pay customs duties, VAT, Import Declaration Fees (IDF), Railway Development Levy (RDL), and other taxes on goods imported from the UK into Kenya. Before you can pay customs duties, your shipment must first be assessed by customs and a payment slip generated in the customs system. (Kenya Revenue Authority)

For most commercial imports, the customs declaration is submitted through the customs system by a licensed clearing agent, who then provides the importer with the payment slip once taxes have been assessed. (Kenya Revenue Authority)

Step 1: Ensure Your Cargo Has Been Assessed

Before an e-slip can be generated, customs must review:

• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
• Import Declaration Form (IDF)
• KRA PIN
• Supporting import documents

Customs officers verify the shipment and calculate the applicable taxes and levies. (Kra)

Step 2: Obtain the Customs Assessment

Once customs valuation has been completed, the customs declaration will show the payable charges, which may include:

• Import Duty
• VAT
• Railway Development Levy (RDL)
• Import Declaration Fee (IDF)
• Excise Duty (where applicable)

After assessment, an Electronic Payment Slip is generated for payment. (Kenya Revenue Authority)

Step 3: Receive the e-Slip

For commercial imports, the clearing agent normally generates the customs entry and provides the importer with the payment slip showing:

• Payment Registration Number (PRN)
• Amount payable
• Tax breakdown
• Payment options

KRA’s import clearance process states that the appointed clearing agent makes the customs declaration and provides the importer with the payment slip for payment. (Kenya Revenue Authority)

Step 4: Pay Using the e-Slip

Once the e-slip has been generated, payment can be made through:

M-Pesa

You can use the Payment Registration Number (PRN) shown on the slip as the account/reference number when making payment through the KRA Paybill. (Kenya Revenue Authority)

Designated Banks

The payment slip can be presented to approved banks for payment. KRA notes that customs duties may be paid through appointed banks after generation of the Electronic Payment Slip. (Kenya Revenue Authority)

Mobile Banking

Customs duties can also be paid through supported mobile banking channels once the e-slip has been generated. (Kra)

Step 5: Obtain Payment Confirmation

After payment:

• Save the receipt
• Keep the transaction reference
• Provide proof of payment if requested

Once payment reflects in the customs system, customs clearance can continue and the cargo can proceed to release. (Kenya Revenue Authority)

Can I Generate the e-Slip Myself?

For many commercial imports, the customs declaration that triggers the payment slip is submitted through customs systems by a licensed clearing agent. As part of the import process, the agent creates the customs entry and generates the payment information used for duty payment. (Kenya Revenue Authority)

If you are importing through UK World Cargo, the shipping and customs support team can guide you through the assessment and payment process and help ensure the correct taxes are paid before cargo release.

Common Reasons an e-Slip Cannot Be Generated

Problems may occur if:

• Import documents are incomplete
• The IDF is missing
• Customs valuation is still under review
• The HS Code is disputed
• Additional inspections are required
• KRA has requested further documentation

Resolving these issues usually allows the assessment and payment process to proceed.

Tips for Faster Customs Payment

To avoid delays:

• Ensure invoices are accurate.
• Use correct HS Codes.
• Submit all supporting documents promptly.
• Pay immediately after assessment.
• Keep copies of all payment receipts.

Fast payment can help minimise storage charges, port charges, and demurrage costs.

Why Choose UK World Cargo?

UK World Cargo helps customers importing from the UK to Kenya with:

• UK warehouse services
• Parcel consolidation
• Air freight shipping
• Sea freight shipping
• Container shipping
• Customs clearance support
• Import documentation guidance
• Cargo tracking
• Door-to-door delivery

Their team can assist with customs procedures, valuation questions, and duty payment requirements to help ensure a smooth import process.

Final Thoughts

To generate a KRA e-slip for a UK import valuation, your cargo must first be declared and assessed by customs. Once customs duties, VAT, IDF, RDL, and any other charges have been calculated, an Electronic Payment Slip is generated and provided to the importer, usually through the clearing agent handling the shipment. The e-slip can then be used to pay customs duties through M-Pesa, mobile banking, or approved banks. Prompt payment helps speed up cargo release and reduces the risk of storage and demurrage charges. UK World Cargo can assist importers throughout the shipping, customs, and duty payment process from the UK to Kenya.

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

Abdi Haji at +44 7487 554202.