Alibaba, one of the largest online marketplaces globally, has become a go-to platform for Kenyans looking to purchase products at competitive prices. Offering a vast range of goods, from electronics and clothing to industrial equipment, Alibaba provides access to international sellers and manufacturers, primarily from China. However, shopping on Alibaba from Kenya requires an understanding of the shopping process, shipping methods, and import regulations.
Our one-on-one guide will walk you through the steps to successfully shop and ship goods from Alibaba in China to Kenya. We’ll cover how you can place orders, choose the right shipping companies, and handle customs and delivery.
How to Buy and Ship Goods from Alibaba to Kenya
Create an Alibaba Account
Sign up freely on the website. You only need an email address and a strong password to fill out the required details.
Search for the Right Products
Scroll the search bar on Alibaba’s homepage to find the items you’re interested in. Always be keen with your search terms to locate relevant goods.
Again, ensure to filter the results by categories, suppliers, price, and other specifications to narrow down your search options.
Important Note:
The products you choose should comply with Kenyan regulations and standards.
Choose a Verified Supplier
Alibaba has various suppliers but some are not reliable. A verified supplier is labeled as a “Gold Supplier” or “Trade Assurance” , you can use the verification process on its website to increase safety and reliability.
Expert Tip: Read reviews and ratings for the supplier on the website to get an idea of their product quality and service.
Contact and Communicate with the Supplier
Once you’ve identified a verified and potential supplier, contact them to ask questions about pricing, product details, available shipping options, and payment terms.
Pro Tip: Request quotes and a sample of the product to verify its quality.
Negotiate and Finalize the Order
Sometimes you can negotiate prices on Alibaba, especially for bulk purchases. Discuss terms like Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ), payment methods, and shipping options.
Currency Exchange: You need to be keen on currency exchange rates. Always demand that the currency exchanges are made on USD(US dollars) for uniformity.
How to Pay on Alibaba
Common payment methods include:
- Alibaba Trade Assurance (a form of protection for buyers)
- Credit/Debit Cards
- PayPal (for some suppliers)
- Bank Transfer (T/T)
Important Note: Always ensure you are using secure and official payment methods to avoid fraud. We advise that you pay using the Alibaba payment for security purposes.
Available Shipping Methods to Kenya
Discuss shipping terms with the supplier. Here are common shipping options available:
- Express Delivery (DHL, FedEx, UPS, etc.) – Fast but more expensive.
- Air Freight – Faster than sea freight but more expensive.
- Sea Freight – The most affordable option for large quantities, but slower (can take weeks or months).
How to Ship from Alibaba to Kenya
Suppliers on Alibaba often ship worldwide, including to Kenya. Some suppliers may offer Delivery Duty Paid (DDP), where they handle customs clearance and taxes, but this is less common.
If a supplier doesn’t offer DDP, consider using a third-party freight forwarder or customs clearing agent in Kenya to help with logistics and customs clearance.
Here are notable freight forwarding services to Kenya:
You can also use services like Alibaba’s Logistics Services (Cainiao), which partners with third-party freight companies.
Customs and Import Duties in Kenya
Goods imported into Kenya are subject to customs duties, VAT, and sometimes excise tax, depending on the product. You must pay these fees to clear goods through customs.
Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) provides guidelines on import duties based on product categories. Ensure you calculate these extra costs before placing an order
Alibaba Kenya: Receiving Goods on Delivery
Once your shipment arrives in Kenya, your customs agent or freight forwarder will help clear the goods through customs.
Pay any outstanding duties and taxes, and then arrange for final delivery to your location.
Follow these steps to ensure a smooth process:
1. Monitor Your Shipments: Keep track of your shipment’s status using the tracking number provided by the shipping company. You can also contact them directly for updates. This allows you to stay informed on when to expect your goods.
2. Inspect the Goods on Arrival: Once your shipment reaches you, inspect the items carefully. Check the packaging, verify the quantity and quality, and ensure nothing is damaged.
3. Address Issues Quickly: If you notice any issues, such as missing items, damage, or incorrect products, reach out to the supplier or shipping company ASAP. You may need to file a claim, request a refund, or arrange for replacements.
Additional Tips:
Verify Shipping Timelines: Depending on the method (air or sea), shipments to Kenya can take from a few days to several weeks.
Use Trade Assurance: Always use Alibaba’s Trade Assurance to protect your purchase if the supplier doesn’t deliver as promised.
Beware of Scams: Make sure the supplier is verified and has good reviews on the website to avoid fraud.
Following these steps will help you successfully purchase and ship goods from Alibaba to Kenya.
Related: How to Shop on AliExpress with Mpesa
