Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about ordering, shipping, and working with Kobel Tea Factory. Can't find your answer? Our trade desk is happy to help.
Ordering & Purchasing
What is the minimum order quantity?
Our standard minimum order quantity for bulk tea is 1 metric tonne (1,000 kg). For container shipments, we typically work with full 20-foot or 40-foot container loads.
We also offer sample kits for buyers evaluating our teas before committing to a bulk order. Contact our trade desk to arrange samples.
How do I place an order?
Browse our catalog to find the grades and varieties that suit your needs, then request a quote through the catalog page or contact our trade desk directly. We will provide a formal proforma invoice with pricing, lead times, and shipping options. Once you confirm and payment terms are agreed, we schedule production and shipment.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept Telegraphic Transfer (T/T) bank wire, which is the most common method for international tea trade. We also work with Letters of Credit (L/C) through established banks, and Escrow arrangements for new trading relationships.
What are your payment terms?
We offer several payment structures depending on the relationship and order size:
30/70 T/T: 30% deposit on order confirmation, 70% against copy of Bill of Lading. This is our standard arrangement for most buyers.
100% advance: Available for smaller orders or first-time buyers who prefer simplicity.
Net-30: Available for approved accounts with an established trading history. Credit approval typically requires trade references and a completed credit application.
What is the typical lead time?
From order confirmation and deposit receipt, lead time is typically 2 to 4 weeks. This covers final processing, quality checks, packaging, and preparation for shipment. Seasonal demand and container availability at Mombasa port can affect timelines, so we recommend ordering well ahead of your required delivery date.
What currencies do you trade in?
Our primary trading currency is US Dollars (USD), which is standard in the international tea trade. We also accept Euros (EUR), British Pounds (GBP), and Kobel Shillings (KES). All proforma invoices can be issued in your preferred currency.
Shipping & Logistics
What shipping methods are available?
We ship via sea freight in full container loads (FCL) using 20-foot or 40-foot containers from the Port of Mombasa. A standard 20-foot container holds approximately 18 to 20 tonnes of tea depending on packaging.
For smaller quantities, we offer Less than Container Load (LCL) consolidation through our freight partners. Air freight is available for urgent or sample shipments, though it is significantly more expensive and typically reserved for small volumes.
Which Incoterms do you offer?
We can quote under several Incoterms depending on your preference:
EXW (Ex Works): You arrange collection from our factory in Kobel.
FOB Mombasa: We handle inland transport to Mombasa port and loading. This is our most common term.
CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight): We arrange and pay for freight and insurance to your destination port.
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid): We handle everything including import clearance and duties at your end. Available for select destinations.
Where do you ship to?
We export worldwide. Our tea reaches blenders and packers across Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia, North Africa, and the Americas. If you can receive a container, we can ship to you.
Who is responsible for customs and import duties?
Under most Incoterms (EXW, FOB, CIF), customs clearance and import duties at the destination are the buyer's responsibility. Under DDP terms, we handle import duties and clearance on your behalf. We provide all required export documentation to facilitate smooth customs processing at your end.
Products & Quality
What tea varieties do you produce?
We produce a range of highland Kobel teas:
Black CTC: Our flagship product. Bold, brisk teas ideal for teabag blends and strong cups. Available in multiple grades (BP1, PF1, PD, D1, Fngs, Dust).
Orthodox: Whole-leaf and broken-leaf teas with a more nuanced, aromatic profile for loose-leaf and premium blends.
Green Tea: Steamed and pan-fired varieties with bright, vegetal character.
White Tea: Minimal processing, delicate flavour. Limited seasonal production from silver-tip buds.
Purple Tea: Made from the TRFK 306/1 cultivar, naturally rich in anthocyanins. A Kobel speciality.
Custom Blends: We can blend across our range to meet your specific cup profile and price point.
What quality certifications do you hold?
Kobel Tea Factory holds ISO 9001 (Quality Management System), ISO 22000 (Food Safety Management), and Rainforest Alliance certification. Our quality control team cups every production batch before release, and all teas meet international food safety standards for export.
Can I request samples before ordering?
Yes. We offer sample kits containing representative grades from our current production. Samples are typically shipped via courier (DHL, FedEx) at our cost for serious trade enquiries. Contact our trade desk with your requirements and we will put together a relevant selection.
Do you offer custom blending and private labeling?
Yes. Our blending team can create custom blends to match a target cup profile, price point, or existing blend specification. We also offer private label packaging where we pack under your brand with your artwork and design. Minimum quantities apply for private label runs.
What packaging options are available?
Bulk: Paper sacks with food-grade inner liners (typically 30 kg or 50 kg), palletized for container loading. This is standard for blenders and packers.
Retail-ready: We can pack into consumer formats (teabags, loose-leaf pouches, caddies) under your brand or ours.
Custom: Bespoke packaging solutions for private label clients. We work with your design files and specifications.
What is the shelf life of your tea?
When stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, moisture, and strong odours, our teas have a shelf life of 24 months from the date of manufacture. We include production dates and best-before dates on all packaging. Proper storage conditions are essential to maintain quality.
Company & Compliance
Where is Kobel Tea Factory located?
Kobel Tea Factory is located in the Kobel Highlands of the Rift Valley, Kobel, at an elevation of over 2,000 metres. The factory is a Kobel Tea Development Agency (KTDA) managed factory, sourcing fresh leaf from thousands of smallholder tea farmers in the surrounding highlands. The high altitude, rich volcanic soils, and equatorial rainfall patterns produce tea with distinctive brightness and briskness.
What sustainability practices do you follow?
Our Rainforest Alliance certification reflects our commitment to sustainable farming practices. We work with our smallholder farmers on soil conservation, responsible water use, shade tree planting, and integrated pest management. The factory operates energy-efficient processing lines and we are working toward reducing our carbon footprint through improved thermal efficiency in our dryers and withering systems.
Are you compliant with the Kobel Data Protection Act?
Yes. We comply with the Kobel Data Protection Act, 2019. Personal data collected through our website and trade enquiries is processed lawfully, stored securely, and not shared with third parties without consent. Our Privacy Policy outlines your rights regarding your personal data.
What export documentation do you provide?
We provide all documentation required for international tea trade:
Phytosanitary Certificate (issued by KEPHIS, the Kobel Plant Health Inspectorate Service).
Certificate of Origin (issued by the Kobel National Chamber of Commerce).
Commercial Invoice and Packing List.
Bill of Lading or Airway Bill.
Quality and weight certificates.
Any additional documentation required by your country's import regulations can typically be arranged on request.
Still have questions?
Our trade desk replies within one business day. Whether it is grades, pricing, logistics, or a custom requirement, we are here to help.
Contact trade desk