Revised Update – Mandatory Advance Cargo Declaration (Acd) Reference Number For Imports Into Kenya

07 Aug 2026

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has announced the implementation of a new Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) platform for all containerized cargo destined for Kenyan ports,

Effective 03 August 2026: Under this new regulatory requirement, a valid ACD Reference Number must be obtained prior to cargo loading and endorsed on the Bill of Lading.

Effective 01 September 2026 onwards: Vessel carriers will be required to validate the ACD Reference Number prior to loading and ensure containers are loaded at origin only when a valid ACD Reference Number has been obtained.

To ensure smooth cargo movement and avoid delays, cargo rollovers please review the updated Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) process outlined below.

The requirement applies to all containerized cargo imports for Kenya ports

ACD FORMAT: ACD Number consist of 15 Digit Alphanumeric format.

For Eg.: ACDKE2026004324

ACDKE – 5-letter prefix reference name and country initials.

2026 – 4-digit year

004324 – 6-digit sequential reference number received from KRA

Note – ACD Reference Code is a mandatory requirement for shipment processing and must be endorsed on the Bill of Lading before the cargo is dispatched to Kenya

Customer guidance for obtaining the Kenya ACD reference number

1. Register: Log into the official website.
2. Submit Documents: Upload required documents to receive a draft ACD.
3. Validate: Pay fees to receive the final validated certificate.
4. Finalize BOL: Ensure the 15-digit ACD number is clearly printed on the final Bill of Lading.

Documents Required for ACD Draft & Reference number.

Shippers, exporters, or freight forwarders are required to upload the following documents on the ACD platform:

KRA ACD Portal: https://acd.kra.go.ke

• Draft Bill of Lading
• Commercial Invoice
• Freight Invoice
• Export Declaration

Non Compliance

From 01 September 2026, only containers supported by a valid ACD Number will be eligible for loading. Shipments without a valid ACD Number may be rolled to a subsequent vessel and import customers may be subject to customs penalties and other regulatory actions for non-compliance.

We understand that this may require some adjustments on your part, and we are here to support you through this transition. Our team is available to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have. Please contact https://www.maersk.com/local-information for further details or support. We thank you for your business and look forward to continuing to serve your global transportation needs.