What Happens if a UK Container Stays at Mombasa Port for More Than 21 Days?

When a container shipped from the United Kingdom arrives at the Port of Mombasa, importers are expected to complete customs clearance and remove the cargo within the allowed free storage period. If the container remains at the port for more than 21 days, significant storage charges, demurrage fees, and operational complications can arise.

The longer a container stays uncleared, the more expensive it becomes for the importer.

Storage Charges Increase After 21 Days

According to the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) tariff schedule for domestic import containers:

• First 5 days: Free storage
• Days 6–21: USD 30 per day for a 20-foot container and USD 60 per day for a 40-foot container
• After 21 days: USD 50 per day for a 20-foot container and USD 100 per day for a 40-foot container

This means storage costs increase substantially once the container passes the 21-day threshold.

Shipping Line Demurrage Continues to Accumulate

In addition to KPA storage charges, the shipping line may continue charging container demurrage.

Demurrage charges are separate from port storage fees and can increase progressively depending on:

• Container size
• Shipping line tariff
• Number of overdue days
• Contract terms

Importers may therefore face two separate daily charges simultaneously.

Customs and Regulatory Delays Become More Costly

Containers commonly remain beyond 21 days due to:

• Missing import permits
• Delayed customs declarations
• Outstanding duties and taxes
• Missing Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
• KEBS inspections
• Regulatory approvals from government agencies

Every additional day increases the financial burden on the importer.

Risk of Being Classified as Long-Stay Cargo

Containers remaining at the port for extended periods are often treated as long-stay cargo by port authorities.

In recent KPA notices, containers exceeding 21 days were specifically categorized as long-stay containers and became the subject of special clearance initiatives aimed at reducing congestion.

Possible Transfer or Further Enforcement Action

For transit cargo, KPA has previously announced that long-stay containers may be transferred to inland facilities such as the Naivasha Inland Container Depot at the owner’s cost if they remain uncleared.

Although domestic imports are generally not automatically transferred, prolonged delays can trigger additional customs and port interventions.

Example of Potential Costs

A 40-foot UK import container delayed beyond 21 days could incur:

• USD 100 per day in KPA storage charges after day 21
• Additional shipping line demurrage charges
• Possible inspection-related costs
• Additional handling fees

Even a one-week delay after day 21 can add several hundred dollars to the final import cost.

How to Avoid Long-Stay Container Charges

Before the vessel arrives in Mombasa:

• Process the Import Declaration Form (IDF).
• Obtain any required Certificate of Conformity (CoC).
• Prepare customs documentation early.
• Verify permit requirements.
• Appoint a licensed clearing agent.
• Pay duties and taxes promptly.

Advance preparation is the most effective way to avoid costly storage and demurrage fees.

Why Many Importers Choose UK World Cargo

UK World Cargo has become a trusted logistics partner for businesses and individuals shipping cargo from the United Kingdom to Kenya.

Their services include:

• Container shipping
• Commercial cargo shipping
• Personal effects shipping
• Air freight services
• Sea freight services
• Cargo consolidation
• Export documentation support
• Customs clearance guidance
• Door-to-door delivery services

Their experienced team assists customers throughout the shipping process, helping ensure cargo is properly documented and cleared efficiently.

Final Thoughts

If a UK container remains at the Port of Mombasa for more than 21 days, storage charges increase significantly under KPA tariffs, while shipping line demurrage may continue accumulating separately. The result can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars in additional costs. Importers who prepare documentation, permits, and customs declarations before cargo arrival are best positioned to avoid these expensive delays.

For container shipping, commercial cargo shipping, air freight, sea freight, cargo consolidation, customs clearance guidance, and door-to-door delivery from the UK to Kenya, contact:

UK World Cargo

Abdi Haji
📞 +44 7487 554202
📱 WhatsApp: +44 7487 554202