Inland Container Depots
Inland Container Depots, otherwise known as ICDs, are dry ports equipped for handling
and temporary storage of containerized cargo as well as empties. This means that
hinterland customers can receive port services more conveniently closer to their premises.
In addition to managing and operating the sea ports, Kenya Ports Authority owns and
manages three Inland Container Depots strategically located in Embakasi- Nairobi, Kibos
in Kisumu, and Eldoret.
ICDs are a convenient shipping alternative extending port services closer to hinterland
customers. The depots are directly linked to the container terminal at the port of
Mombasa by rail through a service called ‘railtainer’ provided by the Rift Valley
Railways. This service transports containerized cargo by rail, on Through Bill of Lading
(TBL) status.
ICD Objectives
The Kenya Ports Authority saw it fit to set up Inland Container Depots due to the
following strategic objectives:
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Bring Port services closer to hinterland customers- customers based in the
hinterland can have access to the same services offered at the port of Mombasa
without having to travel all the way for the same thus saving time and money. The
ICDs are therefore an efficient shipping solution
decongesting the Port of Mombasa - the ICDs help decongest the container
terminal at the port by reducing container dwell time through enhanced take-off of
import containerized cargo for clearance at the ICD. In addition, the depots also
facilitate for the dispatch of export containers therefore increasing container turn
around time creating more space at the Container Terminal in Mombasa.
Minimize road damage and carnage - the ICDs facilitate the diversion of heavy
container traffic from the road to rail. This in turn minimizes road damage caused
by heavy trucking thus ensuring smoother roads while giving them more life.
Provide safety and security to transit cargo - cargo transported by rail is safer and
more secure therefore ensuring the safe transportation of cargo to and from the
port of Mombasa
Saving customer costs - Customers reduce the amount of time and money that
would have otherwise been spent traveling all the way to the Port of Mombasa to
clear or forward cargo
Inland Container Depots are rail linked and therefore allow containers to be sent by rail
directly to a satellite terminal, therefore bringing “dry port” facilities to the commercial
heart of Kenya and transit countries by providing a more efficient and cost effective
transport solution for importers and exporters.
ICD Nairobi (Embakasi)
Located close to Nairobi’s busy industrial area, the ICD was established in 1984 and has
a container stacking area of 99,000sq m with a capacity to handle 180,000 TEUs
annually. This facility provides a one-stop shipping centre that not only caters for all
shipping needs but in addition also includes; a commercial bank to ease financial
transactions, a weigh bridge and a railway siding for transportation logistics.
Over the years, the depot has experienced considerable growth in throughput. With
developments that include acquiring more efficient equipment and a competent work
force, the ICD has been dedicated to improving service delivery through focused superior
customer service as well as fostering strong working relations with its stakeholders.
In tandem with KPA’s vision to be rated amongst the top 20 ports in the world in terms of
reputation and performance, ICDs strive to be the best in terms of technological
advancement, efficient and effective business management processes as well as offering
competitive and superior customer service.