Safe transport of your critical Industrial Machinery freight
Kenya
Sri Lanka
The ocean route from Mombasa to Colombo is particularly advantageous for transporting industrial machinery and construction equipment due to its direct access to major shipping lanes. This path ensures efficient handling of large and heavy cargo, minimizing the risk of damage during transit. Additionally, the well-established maritime connections between these two ports facilitate smooth logistical operations, enabling timely deliveries to construction sites and manufacturing facilities. Overall, this route supports the robust demand for factory equipment in various markets.
Mombasa boasts a modern port infrastructure equipped to handle large shipments of industrial machines, with specialized facilities for loading and unloading heavy cargo. Similarly, Colombo's port features advanced container terminals and efficient customs processes, ensuring a seamless transfer of construction machinery upon arrival. Both ports are strategically located, enhancing their roles as key hubs in the supply chain for heavy equipment and machinery. This infrastructure enables businesses to efficiently manage their logistics and distribution needs.
Comparative analysis of origin and destination capabilities.
Exporters must comply with Kenya Revenue Authority export clearance procedures and submit correct HS codes and values.
Imports are subject to Sri Lanka Customs rules, including timely electronic manifest filing.
DNA Expert Assessment
Very High - Complex Regulatory Environment
High - Fragile/Moisture Sensitive
When shipping from Mombasa to Colombo, anticipate significant delays due to the East Africa long rains (March-May) and Indian Ocean cyclone season (April-June). Build in extra buffer days to transit times and secure priority berthing at key ports. During the Eid al Fitr (March-June) and Eid al Adha (May-July) holidays, plan for reduced operations, requiring additional time for customs and clearance. Stay updated on weather conditions and adjust routes as necessary, particularly during the southwest monsoon (June-September) and peak holiday periods (October-December).
When shipping industrial machines, engineered packaging Is essential for very heavy, moisture‑sensitive units. Most carriers require using heavy timber skids or bases with marked l...
Very heavy construction machines and backup generators Require pre‑approved handling procedures. Only use rated lifting gear—rigging frames, slings, and shackles—matched to the Gro...
Very heavy industrial machines often travels safest on Flatbed trailers with proper load distribution. Oversized heavy equipment may call for lowboy or multi‑axle trailers, while p...
High‑value, very heavy industrial machines and backup generators Should be covered by broad‑form cargo policies, not just carrier liability. Most brokers recommend insuring shipmen...
Moisture‑sensitive air handling units and control cabinets on factory equipment Require weather‑protected storage before and after transit. Our team suggests storing crated generat...
Shipping very heavy industrial machines demands Engineered crating. Use purpose‑built skids with clear lifting points, hire experienced machinery movers for loading, and choose suitable heavy‑haul trailers rated for the full load. Block and brace the machine to prevent any movement, and record its condition before pickup.
Yes, moisture‑sensitive air handling units must be Sealed against humidity. Use sealed plastic covers with drying agents inside, cap all duct and cable openings, and book Enclosed trailers whenever possible. For ocean freight, ask about Dehumidified or ventilated containers for long voyages.
Exporting heavy equipment typically calls for a Commercial invoice, packing list, transport document, and any control permits applicable to your destination. Customs brokers typically recommend including serial numbers, model numbers, and precise weights for each unit, especially for Generators. For some destinations, you should check if you need certificates of origin, fumigation or ISPM‑15 declarations for wood packaging, and safety or emissions certificates for Construction machines.
High‑value backup generators Should be protected by Separate cargo insurance, as carrier liability is usually limited and may not cover full replacement cost. Insure for total project value, confirm that rigging are covered, and store inspection reports and photos in case you need to file a claim. This is especially important for custom‑built Industrial machinery where lead times and replacement costs are high.
Crated industrial machinery are occasionally stored outdoors short‑term if packaging is Weather‑resistant and placed on hardstanding, not bare ground. However, moisture‑sensitive items like air handling units and power equipment Are better kept under cover or indoors. If outdoor storage is unavoidable, verify wraps and tarps regularly, maintain drainage around the site, and Avoid long‑term exposure to reduce corrosion and electrical damage.
Industrial machinery and construction equipment require careful handling due to their size and weight. It is important to ensure that all items are securely packed and loaded onto the vessel to prevent damage during transit. Additionally, specialized equipment may be needed for loading and unloading at both ports.
Required documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and any relevant export permits from Kenya. Import permits and customs declarations will also be necessary in Sri Lanka to facilitate the clearance of industrial machinery and construction equipment.
The platform offers Document Intelligence and a Smart Document Hub that auto-tags and organizes bills of lading, customs forms, and invoices, parses and sorts every invoice, BOL, and customs document, and makes it easy for your team to find the right file quickly.
The platform’s proactive alerts work by using real-time AI to detect issues in ports, lanes, and vessel activity and flagging exceptions before they escalate.
The platform’s AI foundation includes a proprietary ecosystem of standardized shipping data that is meticulously cleaned, weighted, and validated from trusted third-party sources and DNA Supply Chain Solutions’ own operational history.
Call or schedule a call with our sales team to discuss your Mombasa → Colombo shipping needs.
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