How to Track Cargo at Mombasa Port Online in Real Time

The importers, exporters, clearers, and logistics service providers have been made to monitor the cargo at the Port of Mombasa in an efficient manner using only a computer, a laptop, or a phone, and without physically going to the port.

The Kenya Ports Authority(KPA) has made cargo monitoring much easier through the incorporation of the port services within the eCitizen platform offered by the government.

This can be done through the use of the Kenya Ports Authority Online portal using the eCitizen platform, where one will have the opportunity to monitor container movement and get information on whether the cargo is still in the terminal, waiting for clearance, pending customs clearance, or ready for picking up.

One must have certain key information about the cargo to start monitoring the movement of goods.

This may include the container number, B/L number, Waybill number, among other shipment identification numbers.

Others will even require you to give your importer code, Customs clearance code and iCMS/TradeNet Filing Reference.

Steps for Tracking On KPA eCitizen Portal

The first step involves creating or logging into the eCitizen account.

Those without accounts need to sign up using their identification and mobile number.

They then need to log in to the account before clicking “Government Services.”

Here, the user needs to click the Kenya Ports Authority services.

On the KPA menu, one can select the cargo tracking service, shipment status service, or document status service.

After providing the container number, bill of lading number, or reference numbers as required, updates on consignments are provided on the platform.

In some cases, the user is also provided with unpaid port charges and invoices.

The use of the centralized portal has helped in minimizing the dependence on manual activities.

It allows faster declaration of customs, increased compliance, access to cargo information by authorized agents, and improved performance with the help of technological aids like artificial intelligence risk management solutions.

Also Read: Kenya to Enforce Mandatory Local Marine Cargo Insurance for All Imports

More Methods Of Tracking Cargo Movement In Mombasa

While it is possible to use eCitizen and KPA services, it is also possible to track your cargo movement through tracking platforms from terminals and depots.

For example, tracking of your cargo is done at APM Terminals Mombasa, which tracks containers using the terminal tracking number provided by the user.

There are other inland container depots that link up with Mombasa Port through roads and railways.

Such platforms allow you to monitor the movement of cargo after it has left the port.

Alternatively, users may choose SMS tracking.

By sending your reference number to 22392 at a fee of Ksh 10, you will be able to track the documents and manifest process.

When dealing with cargo outside Mombasa Port through transit, the real-time cargo tracking system on KRA’s RECTS Platform can help.

Also Read: Flower Exporters Lose Ksh 724 Million as Air Cargo Delays Disrupt European Shipments

Cargo Tracking Difficulties And Advice

Despite advancements in online cargo tracking, there might be instances where tracking will be slow.

The unavailability of systems such as iCMS or TradeNet may hinder the clearance of the cargo and updates.

The importers must verify whether all relevant documents have been provided by their carriers, clearing agents, and forwarding companies to make sure that all information regarding the cargo is available on the tracking system.

One must bear in mind that some updates may take longer to reflect online.

For instance, after customs clearance and after movement within the port itself.

Frequent checking and verification of documents will help in tracking the cargo at the Port of Mombasa efficiently.

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A photo of the Kenya Ports Authority temporary establishment at the ASK Grounds, Jamhuri, Nairobi. PHOTO/KPA.