In case you are considering starting a transportation company or are researching the subject. Or perhaps you’re only browsing the web curiously to learn what necessities any transportation vehicle must have. Whatever the case, this article is super informative.

We have been in the transport and logistics industry for more than a decade. Hence, we have acquired some invaluable knowledge which we are happy to share with you. So, prepare your intellect for the journey ahead. It will be extremely fascinating and instructive.

Here we go. As you will notice if you are smart enough (and I believe you are). There are three values that governments uphold in the logistics industry. As a matter of fact, these values are extremely crucial that without them, you can forget about the whole idea of trade altogether. Can you guess what they are without looking at the next sentence? If you said safety, security, and efficiency you are right.

The logistics sector is the backbone of international trade. Because of this, it’s crucial that the greatest level of safety, security, and efficiency is maintained. A thriving economy is built on these three guiding values.

Imagine living in a nation where there is no assurance that your partner will get the goods you send them. Who among local or foreign entrepreneurs would choose to invest in such an environment? It’s disastrous to the overall well-being of the citizens and casts a shadow over the economy of the country. This is the part where things like crime rates, corruption, inequality, and all such terrible diseases that plague a country escalate.

Without safety and security taking firm roots within the logistics and supply chain industries there can never be a healthy economy. Without a healthy economy, there can never be a stable government. As a result, there must be effective regulations within the sector to ensure prosperity for all.

I hope the picture is pretty clear now. You say it is? Okay, let’s move on. Here are all the requirements you must comply with for your transit vehicle to start its journey and arrive at its destination smoothly.

1. Insurance.

A transit insurance policy cover is required for any business that carries goods as part of its activities. It covers business goods or personal belongings while they’re being transported from one place to another. It is designed to provide protection against different transit risks such as accidents, fire, theft, or damage because of natural calamities when the goods are being transported.

There are several insurance agencies that offer these services. They include; Britan, AIG, Madison, Heritage, and so on. Always do research and understand the terms before choosing what works for you.

2. Inspection.

According to current Kenyan law, every two years, the Motor Vehicle Inspection Unit must inspect every car that is more than four years old from the registered date of manufacture.

To assess a vehicle’s operational condition, there is something known as a vehicle inspection checklist. It identifies mechanical issues or defects to ensure that vehicles are in good working order and safe for use on the road.

3. Transit Goods Licence (TGL) 

This license is insured by KRA and expires within a year time frame. The application form can be downloaded from KRA website, www.kra.go.ke. It is accompanied by a copy of the vehicle’s log book, a COMESA Yellow card (for foreign vehicles), and a copy of the application form signed and stamped by a customs officer.

The license fee in Kenya shillings is equivalent to US$ 200 per license. Once all these criteria are met, the application is submitted through Customs Regional offices before the given deadline.

4. Trucking.

ECTS is a technology solution that enables real-time tracking of cargo from point of loading to point of discharge or offloading.

The system was introduced to help customs bodies and private transporters worldwide monitor the movement of goods remotely. It prevents theft of goods in transit and dumping of goods in transit through a given territory. 

Apart from providing real-time location and status of the cargo, it also enables quick inspection and clearance of cargo and provides ready data for customizing reports.

5. Local Letter (If Carrying Local Goods.)

A letter from the client is required for efficient transport of local inside goods. In the letter, the client accepts that you have their trust and that the commodities being transported are their property. If necessary, the client may also include any other documentation of ownership of the products with the letter.

6. A Registered RECTS Seal Booking Account With KRA.

The Regional Electronic Cargo Tracking System (RECTS) is a system that facilitates end-to-end monitoring of transits along the Northern Corridor. The system has greatly improved cargo security and helped fast-track the movement of goods along the Northern Corridor.

KRA seals and arm the container online and indicate the seal number on the position slip. This enables real-time tracking of the cargo from the point of loading to the point of discharge.

7. Speed Governor.

Hon. John Michuki, a former minister of roads and transportation, popularized this device. You undoubtedly remember the days if you’re old enough. Anyway, a speed governor is a device that restricts the vehicle’s speed to a predetermined limit. This increases both road safety and the efficiency of the vehicle.

Speed limits apply to vehicles depending upon the type of vehicle and the type of roadway upon which the driver is driving. Motorcycles and cars are subject to a limit of 100km/h on single-carriageways and 110km/h on dual-carriageways.

Commercial vehicles, buses, public service vehicles, and articulated vehicles drawing one trailer are limited to 80km/h on any road. The speed limit is 65km/h for all motor vehicles drawing one trailer while on any road.

In conclusion.

If you have read this far, I know the material was beneficial. As a special treat, we will get deeper into each of the prerequisites in a separate piece. I believe there is a ton of information on each of them.

Perhaps after reading this, you most likely feel inspired and have more practical questions than before. In any case, one of a blog’s objectives is to pique your interest enough to make you eagerly anticipate the next one.

You can always put your inquiries in the comments section, though. We are happy to provide your brain with satisfying answers at any time.

Until then, watch this space, as we come back with even cooler stuff to equip your knowledge base on the industry. Adios!