The prospect of importing goods from China to Kenya can be both exciting and daunting. As someone who ventured into this business, I’ve experienced the highs and lows firsthand. What started as an ambitious idea has now turned into a rewarding venture. In this blog, I’ll walk you through my personal journey, step by step, sharing tips, challenges, and everything in between to help you succeed if you’re considering this path.
Why I Chose to Import from China
It all started a few years ago when I noticed a gap in the Kenyan market for affordable, high-quality electronics. After some research, I discovered that China offered a wide variety of products at competitive prices. This, coupled with the increasing demand for such items locally, made importing a viable business idea.
Key Considerations:
- Product Variety: China’s vast manufacturing industry caters to almost every product category imaginable.
- Affordable Prices: Products are often significantly cheaper than local or other international suppliers.
- Scalability: The low cost of goods allows you to scale your business quickly.
Step 1: Finding a Reliable Supplier
The first hurdle was finding a trustworthy supplier. With countless manufacturers and traders in China, I had to be cautious.
My Approach:
- Research Platforms: I started with popular platforms like Alibaba and 1688.
- Alibaba: Great for large-scale orders and international trade.
- 1688: Best for smaller orders but primarily in Chinese.
- Verify Supplier Credibility: I checked reviews, ratings, and their business licenses (available on Alibaba profiles).
- Request Samples: Before placing a large order, I requested samples to ensure product quality.
Pro Tip: Communication is key. Use clear and concise language to avoid misunderstandings.
Step 2: Understanding Shipping Options
Once I identified a supplier and placed my first order, the next step was figuring out how to ship the goods to Kenya.
Shipping Methods
- Air Freight:
- Faster but more expensive.
- Ideal for small, lightweight goods.
- Sea Freight:
- Cheaper for large quantities.
- Longer delivery time (30-45 days).
My Choice:
For my first shipment, I opted for air freight to minimize delays. However, as my business grew, I switched to sea freight for bulk orders.
Freight Forwarders I Used:
- Sino Shipping: Reliable and affordable for sea freight.
- Saloodo: Great for comparing shipping rates.
Step 3: Clearing Goods at Customs
Navigating Kenyan customs was a learning curve. The process can be intimidating, but preparation makes it manageable.
Documents I Prepared:
- Commercial Invoice from the supplier.
- Bill of Lading or Airway Bill (provided by the freight forwarder).
- Import Declaration Form (IDF): I obtained this through the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).
- Certificate of Conformity (CoC): Ensures goods meet Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) requirements.
Clearing Agents:
Hiring a clearing agent saved me time and reduced errors. They handled the documentation and liaised with customs officials.
Pro Tip: Always declare the correct value of your goods to avoid fines or delays.
Step 4: Storing and Selling the Goods
Once my goods cleared customs, I had to figure out storage and distribution.
Storage Solutions:
- Rented Warehouses: I started with a small rented space in Nairobi.
- Home Storage: For smaller shipments, I used a room at home to cut costs.
Selling Channels:
- Online Platforms:
- Jumia and Kilimall allowed me to reach a broader audience.
- Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook boosted my sales.
- Retail Partnerships:
- Partnering with local shops helped expand my market reach.
Related Post: Learn more about online selling strategies in How to Make Money Online in Kenya.
Challenges I Faced and How I Overcame Them
- Product Quality Issues:
- Some items didn’t match the samples.
- Solution: I now request video inspections of goods before shipping.
- Shipping Delays:
- Sea freight delays affected my business initially.
- Solution: I started placing orders earlier and built a buffer for delays.
- Customs Misunderstandings:
- I underestimated import duties on my first shipment.
- Solution: Consulting a clearing agent helped me plan better.
Tips for a Successful Importing Business
1. Build Strong Supplier Relationships
Communicating regularly and fostering trust with suppliers ensures smoother transactions and better deals.
2. Understand Kenyan Import Regulations
Familiarize yourself with KRA and KEBS requirements to avoid penalties or confiscation of goods.
3. Start Small and Scale Gradually
Place smaller orders initially to minimize risks, then scale up as you gain confidence and market knowledge.
4. Leverage Digital Marketing
Promote your products on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Google Ads to increase visibility and drive sales.
External Resource: Learn more about marketing strategies from HubSpot.
Is Importing from China Worth It?
Absolutely! Despite the challenges, importing from China has proven to be a profitable venture for me. The key is to research thoroughly, remain patient, and adapt to changing market conditions.
Pro Tip: If you’re new to importing, consider joining forums or groups for guidance and support.