Cutting Delays and Enhancing Efficiency at East Africa’s Busiest Port

Truck queues stretching for kilometers at the Port of Mombasa have long been a headache for transporters, exporters and authorities alike. But a new digital truck booking system launched this week by the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) and the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) is already easing congestion and improving efficiency.

The system uses real-time data to schedule truck arrivals, reducing idle time and bottlenecks. When paired with GS1 traceability standards, this innovation can go even further. Assigning each truckload, a Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC) and each truck yard a Global Location Number (GLN) allows port officials to monitor movements digitally, knowing exactly what goods are arriving, when and where they are headed.

   

This visibility helps prevent cargo mix-ups, smuggling and delays in customs clearance. For manufacturers and importers, it means their goods move seamlessly from ship to warehouse with minimal risk. With the world moving towards 2D barcodes by 2027, integrating GS1 data into port logistics systems ensures Kenya remains competitive and compliant with global trade standards.

The result is not just smoother logistics, it is smarter, traceable trade at one of Africa’s busiest ports.