What Is the Daily Fine for Leaving UK Cargo at a Private CFS Terminal in Kenya?
When UK cargo is left at a private Container Freight Station (CFS) in Kenya beyond the allowed free period, it starts accruing daily charges commonly referred to as CFS storage charges, handling fees, and sometimes demurrage-related penalties.
There is no single fixed “fine” across all CFS facilities—each private CFS sets its own tariff, but the charges follow a similar structure regulated under Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) and shipping industry practices.
1. Typical daily CFS storage charges
For most private CFS terminals around Mombasa, charges are usually:
- 20ft container: approx. $10 – $25 per day
- 40ft container: approx. $15 – $40 per day
These apply once the free storage period expires.
Some high-volume or congested CFS facilities may charge even more depending on:
- Cargo type
- Storage space used
- Handling complexity
- How long the cargo stays uncleared
2. What triggers the daily charges?
Charges begin when:
- Free storage period expires (usually 2–5 days at CFS level)
- Customs clearance is not completed
- Duties or documents are pending
- Cargo is awaiting inspection or release from KRA
Once this happens, the CFS starts charging per container per day or per CBM per day (for loose cargo).
3. What happens if cargo stays too long?
If UK cargo remains at a CFS for extended periods:
- Daily storage charges continue increasing
- Re-handling fees may be added
- Cargo may be moved to a long-stay yard
- Shipping line demurrage may still apply (if containerized)
- Cargo may eventually be flagged as “abandoned” if unpaid
4. Important cost distinction
At a private CFS, you may face three different charges at the same time:
- CFS storage charges (paid to the warehouse)
- Shipping line demurrage (paid to carrier)
- KPA-related handling/storage fees (port-linked charges if applicable)
This is why delays can become expensive quickly.
5. How to avoid CFS daily charges
To avoid or reduce costs:
- Clear IDF and documents before arrival
- Ensure invoice and packing list match
- Pay KRA duties immediately
- Respond quickly to inspection requests
- Use an experienced clearing agent
- Pre-clear shipments where possible
Final Thoughts
The daily “fine” for leaving UK cargo at a private CFS in Kenya is typically $10–$40 per day per container, depending on size and facility. While there is no universal fixed rate, charges increase daily once free storage expires, making fast customs clearance essential to avoid escalating costs.
For container 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
📞 WhatsApp / Phone: +44 7487 554202