China (Alibaba/main suppliers): Lowest product prices ($0.5–2 per common part like pumps/seals). Sea freight (20ft container): $2,500–6,500 (28-35 days). Total landed cost for $1,000 CIF: ~KSh 185,000–200,000 after 10% duty, 16% VAT, 2.5% IDF, 2% RDL. Cheapest overall, best for bulk.
India: Parts 10-20% higher than China. Freight slightly lower/competitive. Total landed similar but 5-15% more expensive than China due to unit prices. Faster documentation sometimes.
UAE/Dubai: 20-40% higher product prices, but shorter sea/air routes, lower freight ($1,500–4,000). Total landed 15-25% above China. Good for urgent/small orders and easier CoC.
Europe/USA: Highest prices (50%+ over China), expensive freight. Rarely competitive unless specialized parts.
Taxes (same for all, HS 845090): 10% duty + 16% VAT on (CIF+duty) + 2.5% IDF + 2% RDL = ~35-45% on CIF. Add PVoC, agent fees, clearing.
Freight Cost Breakdown: Washing Machine Parts China to Kenya (April 2026)
Sea FCL (Full Container Load)
- 20ft container: $2,070–$2,530 (most common)
- 40ft container: $2,700–$3,500+ Transit: 28–43 days to Mombasa. Best for bulk orders.
LCL (Less than Container Load) $70–$150 per CBM. Ideal for small shipments (samples or low volume). Minimum charge applies.
Air Freight $5.50–$8.80 per kg to Nairobi. Transit: 5–12 days. For urgent/high-value parts only.
Additional Port & Local Costs (Mombasa)
- THC/Handling: $100–$300 per container
- Clearing agent fees: KSh 30,000–80,000
- Transport to Nairobi: KSh 40,000–70,000 per 20ft
- Demurrage/Storage: KSh 9,000–15,000 per day after free period (avoid delays)
Total extra: $800–2,000+ per container beyond ocean freight.
China sea freight remains cheapest for volume. Get quotes from forwarders as rates fluctuate.
China wins for cost on volume; UAE for speed. Start with samples. Use clearing agent. Costs fluctuate—verify current rates with KRA.