The lowdown on sending parcels to Kenya

Home to the famous Nairobi National Park and the unique Masai Mara reserve, the Republic of Kenya is situated on the equator and has a population of approximately 44 million people. Famous for its safaris and incredible wildlife, Kenya also shares the world's second largest fresh water lake - Lake Victoria - with its neighbours Uganda and Tanzania.

Kenya is the biggest and most advanced economy in east and central Africa. Despite being a developing country, expansions in tourism, telecommunications, transport and agriculture have seen economic prospects improve. There are plenty of opportunities for UK retail businesses to trade with Kenya and significant opportunities are expected in the coming years, meaning it likely that your business will be sending parcels there in the near future - if it isn't already.

Prohibited items

Stringent rules surround the importing and transiting of animal related products into Kenya, to prevent further risk to its delicate ecosystem from poachers in the prolific ivory trade. Due to this, the import and export of ivory products is totally banned. The prohibition also includes items such as unworked or simply prepared tortoise shell, coral or shell, and extends to natural sponges of animal origin.

Banknotes, currency and travellers' cheques are also prohibited. As far as other items go, Kenya's rules are fairly relaxed compared with those of some other countries. Regarding restrictions, disinfectants, insecticides and the like may only be admitted conditionally. Explosives such as propellant powders, fuses and fireworks are also only admitted conditionally. The full list of regulations can be found on the Universal Postal Union's website. Most importantly ensure you complete the relevant customs declarations; if the package's contents are worth more than £270, you'll need to complete and attach form CN23. Anything under that value should be sent with the form CN22.

Other considerations

Rather unsurprisingly, the temperatures in Kenya can get pretty warm, especially compared to the UK. Although the capital of Nairobi is slightly cooler than other parts of the country due to its high altitude, be wary of sending products which could melt in the heat such as chocolate or wax products.

Around 5,000 miles away from the UK, your package will be crossing continents to reach its destination, so ensure you wrap it well to help it on its way. Choose a sturdy box and pack around the item with bubble wrap or packing peanuts to minimise movement. Seal all openings with strong packing tape and write the address clearly on the front. The UPU advises writing KENYA in capital letters at the bottom of the label. Follow these guidelines and you can be assured your parcel will arrive safely at its destination - Hakuna matata!

Find out more information on sending parcels to Kenya here. 

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Please note if you do not select the “signature required” delivery option, UKMail will not be liable should your items be subsequently lost or damaged after the delivery (see clause 11.7 of the Terms & Conditions). *We define a “Parcel” as a package with dimensions up to 80cm x 80cm x 80cm and a weight of up to 25kg.

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