The authority announced the changes in a public notice issued on Friday, September 11, as part of the transition to a new framework under the Regional Electronic Cargo Tracking System (RECTS).
The new arrangement will apply to electronic seals used to monitor both dry and wet cargo. Under the system, users will be able to choose their preferred vendor from a list of approved providers.
KRA said it has approved 15 vendors to provide electronic monitoring and tracking services for goods being transported or stored under customs control.
Importers, exporters, clearing and forwarding agents, transporters and bonded warehouse operators will therefore be able to enter into commercial agreements with their preferred approved vendors and obtain the required tracking devices.
The move comes amid persistent complaints from transporters and cargo operators over long queues and expensive delays caused by shortages of government-owned electronic tracking seals.
KRA said the new model is intended to increase access to electronic seals while helping reduce congestion and improve efficiency at the Port of Mombasa.
The authority further announced that its existing electronic seals will be gradually withdrawn, with the transition expected to be fully completed by October 26, 2026.
After the deadline, goods under customs control will be tracked exclusively using electronic devices supplied by the approved private vendors.
KRA has advised affected businesses and other stakeholders to prepare for the transition before the October deadline. Details of the approved vendors are available through KRA's official channels, including the Cargo Monitoring Unit at Times Tower and other Customs offices.
The changes are expected to significantly alter how businesses involved in cargo transportation and storage comply with electronic tracking requirements under the customs system.