28 August 2026

Export Client Advisory 26-017 Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) for Kenya

 
Issue Date: August 28, 2026 

Dear Valued Clients and Partners,

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has implemented an Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) requirement for all containerized cargo destined for Kenyan ports. 

What is the Kenya ACD?
The ACD is a declaration program established by the Kenya Revenue Authority for all containerized cargo destined for Kenya. Under this regulation, a valid ACD Reference Code must be obtained prior to vessel loading and listed on the Bill of Lading.

Documents Required for ACD Filing
The shipper, exporter, or freight forwarder must submit the following documents through the KRA ACD Portal:
•    Draft Bill of Lading (obtained from CaroTrans)
•    Freight Invoice (obtained from CaroTrans)
•    Commercial Invoice
•    Export Declaration

Compliance Timeline
Effective September 1, 2026:
•    Steamship lines will be required to validate ACD Reference Codes prior to vessel loading.
•    Only containers supported by a valid ACD will be eligible for loading.
•    Shipments without a valid ACD may be rolled to a subsequent vessel and may be subject to penalties, fees, or other regulatory actions.

Client Action Required
For all shipments destined to Kenya, please ensure that:
•    A valid ACD Reference Code is obtained.
•    The ACD is provided to CaroTrans.

Additional information regarding the Kenya ACD program is available here:

Kenya Revenue Authority: Advance Cargo Declaration for Kenya

Official Notice 

User Guide

KRA ACD Portal

BL Verification

IMPORTANT: CaroTrans will not obtain or file the Kenya Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) on behalf of clients or partners. For all Kenya-bound containerized cargo, a valid ACD must be submitted to CaroTrans. Failure to provide a valid ACD may result in shipment delays, cargo rollovers, roll fees, detention and/or demurrage charges, and other costs associated with regulatory non-compliance.

We appreciate your cooperation with this new requirement and helping ensure the smooth movement of cargo to Kenya. Please do not hesitate to contact your local CaroTrans representative if you have any questions or need additional information.