How to Register a Logistics and Courier Business in Kenya

Registering a logistics and courier business in Kenya involves more moving parts than most entrepreneurs expect. You'll need to work with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), the County Government, and potentially the Communications Authority (CA). The process typically takes 4-8 weeks if you're organized, longer if you encounter delays.

The registration process isn't inherently difficult, but it's sequential—you cannot skip steps or do them out of order. Start with the fundamentals before moving to sector-specific requirements.

Register Your Business Name

Your first step is registering a business name with the Kenya Business Registration Bureau (KBRB). Visit ecitizen.go.ke, navigate to Business Registration services, and search for your intended business name. The search takes minutes and costs KSh 500. If the name is available, you'll receive a Certificate of Business Registration immediately as a PDF.

Choose a name that clearly indicates your business type—something like "Swift Logistics Ltd" or "Nairobi Courier Services" works better than vague alternatives. The NTSA and KRA will cross-reference this name, so consistency matters.

Obtain Your KRA PIN

Register for a KRA Personal Identification Number (PIN) on itax.kra.go.ke. This is mandatory for all businesses and takes roughly one week. You'll need your business registration certificate, identification documents, and bank details. The PIN is free and essential for tax compliance and vehicle licensing.

NTSA Vehicle Registration and Licensing

The NTSA oversees commercial vehicle registration. Whether you operate one van or a fleet, each vehicle must be registered as a commercial vehicle. Visit ntsa.go.ke or your nearest NTSA office to apply for a Transport License.

You'll need:

• Proof of vehicle ownership (logbook)
• Valid driving license
• KRA PIN certificate
• Business registration certificate
• Insurance certificate (comprehensive cover required)

The Transport License costs vary by vehicle type but typically ranges from KSh 2,000 to KSh 5,000 annually. The NTSA also requires you to display a Public Service Vehicle (PSV) badge on your vehicle, though this applies differently depending on whether you offer parcel delivery, people transport, or both.

County Government Licensing

Your county government issues a business permit. Visit your county's revenue office with your business registration certificate and KRA PIN. Costs vary significantly by county—Nairobi charges roughly KSh 5,000-10,000 annually for logistics businesses, while other counties may charge less. Processing takes 3-5 working days.

Communications Authority Registration

If you plan to use radio communication systems for dispatching vehicles, you'll need a license from the Communications Authority. Register on their portal and expect fees around KSh 5,000-15,000 depending on your frequency allocation. This step is often overlooked but legally required if you use two-way radios.

Consider working with business registration experts who understand the specific requirements for logistics operations. They can help coordinate between agencies and catch compliance gaps you might miss.

Insurance and Banking

Arrange comprehensive vehicle insurance before NTSA approval. Most insurers charge 8-12% of vehicle value annually for commercial logistics coverage. Open a business bank account—most banks now require this for any registered business receiving payments.

The entire process costs between KSh 15,000 and KSh 40,000 in fees, plus vehicle insurance. Timelines depend on how quickly you compile documents and how responsive each government office is that particular week. Budget 6-8 weeks to be safe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a physical office to register a logistics business?

No. Most logistics businesses operate from home initially. The KRA and NTSA do not require a commercial office space, though having a documented business address (even your home) is necessary for registration.

Can I register a sole proprietorship or must I form a limited company?

Both are valid. Sole proprietorships are faster and cheaper to register but offer no liability protection. Limited companies provide separation between personal and business assets but require more compliance. Most couriers start as sole proprietors and upgrade later.

How much does a Transport License cost at NTSA?

Fees vary by vehicle type and county. Check ntsa.go.ke for current rates. As of 2026, expect KSh 2,000-5,000 annually. Rates change, so verify before applying.

What insurance do I need to start operating?

Comprehensive vehicle insurance is mandatory before NTSA will issue your Transport License. Third-party insurance alone is insufficient. You may also want cargo insurance depending on what you transport.

If you're unsure about any step, find a verified Kenyan expert on Kaziiko who specializes in business registration and compliance.