Mombasa’s Strategic Container Depot
Bilateral Container Depot (BCD) is a professionally managed container depot in Changamwe Industrial Area, Mombasa — approximately 2.6 km from the Port of Mombasa.
Developed on approximately 8 acres (3.24 hectares) of dedicated depot space, with an additional 2.34 acres (0.95 hectares) of adjacent land available as a resource for future expansion, BCD provides a strategic platform for container storage, handling, specialized equipment storage and integrated logistics operations.
With a planned capacity of up to 7,500+ TEUs, flexible Dedicated client Blocks and a Metre-Gauge Railway siding Serving the Depot, BCD is Positioned to Support Efficient Container and Logistics Operations.
As a Subsidiary of Bilateral Semite SAP Ltd, BCD Combines Depot Infrastructure with Integrated Clearing and Forwarding, Transportation and wider Logistics Support.
Your containers. Your equipment. Your visibility.One integrated logistics partner
- Safety-minded container operations
- Reliable coordination and communication
- Efficient, customer-focused service
Depot & Logistics Services
Complete container solutions under one partner — from gate-in to final delivery.
Container Storage
Flexible storage with dedicated client blocks.
LEARN MORE →Empty Container Storage
Reach-stacker handling for empties.
LEARN MORE →Equipment Storage
Space for specialised equipment.
LEARN MORE →Digital Visibility
Clear visibility of your containers.
LEARN MORE →Clearing & Forwarding
Integrated customs and forwarding support.
LEARN MORE →Transport & Returns
Container transport and empty returns.
LEARN MORE →Follow a Container Through BCD
From gate-in to gate-out. Tap or hover a stage to open it.
Strategically Located. Built for Scale. Ready for Growth.
10.34 acres of land, 7,500+ TEUs planned capacity and a new reach stacker for efficient empty-container handling.
A Purpose-Built Depot Site
Controlled Gate
Security gate, CCTV and perimeter controls with gate-in / gate-out processes.
Office & Administration
On-site offices and administration beside the yard and internal truck routes.
Paved Operating Yard
Compacted, cabro-works yard areas for stacking and reach-stacker operations.
Storage & Logistics Options
Choose the arrangement that fits your operation.
Container Storage
- Laden & empty containers
- Reach-stacker handling
- Close to the port
- Digital visibility
Dedicated Client Blocks
- Reserved yard blocks
- Scalable with volumes
- Tailored layout
- Account contact
Full Logistics Package
- Storage & handling
- Clearing & forwarding
- Container transportation
- Empty container returns
Our Facility in Photos
Why Businesses Choose BCD
Dependable depot operations, integrated logistics and responsive support.
Strategic Location
2.6 km from the Port of Mombasa for quicker transfers.
Room to Scale
7,500+ TEUs planned capacity with expansion land ready.
Modern Equipment
New reach stacker and weighbridge services.
Rail Connectivity
Metre-gauge railway siding serving the depot.
Digital Visibility
Clear visibility of your containers.
Customer First
24/7 telephone support and a dedicated contact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about our depot and logistics services.
BCD is in Changamwe Industrial Area, Mombasa, about 2.6 km from the Port of Mombasa.
Containers, including empties, and specialised equipment. Contact us to confirm suitability for specific cargo.
Yes. Dedicated client blocks are available, sized to your volumes.
Yes. Through Bilateral Semite SAP Ltd we offer clearing and forwarding, full container transportation and empty container returns.
A metre-gauge railway siding serves the depot in Changamwe Industrial Area.
Use the Request Quotation form, call +254 786 330 334 or email info@bilateralcontainerdepot.com.
Gateway to East & Central Africa
Mombasa is the entry point for container flows across the region; BCD supports them from Changamwe.
Kenya
Port and domestic logistics base.
Uganda
Northern Corridor flows and inland equipment positioning.
Rwanda
Regional transit logistics and reliable repositioning.
DRC
Cross-border trade and wider Central African flows.
South Sudan & Burundi
Emerging regional routes.
Tanzania
Complementary coastal and inland flows.
Ready to Secure Depot Space?
Tell us what you need to store or move and we’ll respond with a tailored quotation.
About Bilateral Container Depot
A strategic depot combining infrastructure with integrated logistics support.
Mombasa’s Strategic Container Depot
Bilateral Container Depot (BCD) is a professionally managed container depot being developed in Changamwe, Mombasa, roughly 2.6 km from the Port of Mombasa. It supports container storage, handling and logistics operations for shipping lines, container operators, logistics companies and transporters across Kenya and East & Central Africa. Official operations are planned from 1 November 2026.
The main depot covers approximately 8 acres (3.24 hectares), with 2.34 acres (0.95 hectares) of adjacent land reserved for expansion — a total land resource of about 10.34 acres and a planned capacity of 7,500+ TEUs.
BCD is a subsidiary of Bilateral Semite SAP Ltd, pairing depot infrastructure with clearing and forwarding, transportation and wider logistics support.
Your containers. Your equipment. Your visibility.One integrated logistics partner
Our Mission
To provide safe, reliable and efficient container and equipment storage, backed by integrated logistics services.
Our Vision
To become one of East Africa’s leading privately operated container logistics hubs, recognised for operational excellence, innovation, safety and customer service.
Headquarters
Bilateral Container Depot
Changamwe Industrial Area, Mombasa, Kenya
📞 +254 786 330 334
📧 info@bilateralcontainerdepot.com
Safe | Reliable | Efficient | Connected
Four commitments behind every container we handle.
A Depot You Can Walk Through
Our Core Values
Safety
People, cargo and machinery come first.
Reliability
Port proximity and disciplined processes keep cargo moving.
Efficiency
Modern handling equipment, including a new reach stacker.
Connectivity
Port, rail and road access with digital visibility.
Inside BCD
Building Trust Through Performance
BCD operates within a governance framework supported by Bilateral Semite SAP Ltd.
Accountability
Transparency, ethical conduct and regulatory compliance guide every decision.
Financial Discipline
Risk management and internal controls, backed by the parent group.
Safety & Security
Gate control, CCTV and perimeter controls are part of daily operations.
Environment
Responsible environmental management is integral to depot operations.
Company Milestones
Mobilisation
Yard preparation and zoning, equipment commissioning, Depot Management System setup, gate, weighbridge and CCTV readiness, and staff recruitment.
Trial Operations
Customer onboarding, initial container allocations and controlled trial movements.
Official Launch
Planned start of official depot operations at Changamwe.
Phased Ramp-Up
Anchor shipping-line customers, growing utilisation and value-added services, towards 7,500+ TEUs of potential capacity.
Ready to Move Your Containers?
Get in touch for depot storage and integrated logistics.
Our Services
Depot, storage and integrated logistics solutions across the container chain.
Container & Equipment Storage
Flexible, well-managed space close to the Port of Mombasa.
Container Storage
Secure storage for laden and empty containers in a strategically located depot with room to scale to 7,500+ TEUs.
- Flexible storage terms
- Close to the Port of Mombasa
- Professional depot management
Empty Container Storage
Dedicated handling for empties, supported by a new reach stacker for efficient lifting, stacking and movement.
- Reach-stacker handling
- Efficient stacking and repositioning
- For shipping lines and operators
Specialised Equipment Storage
Space for equipment that needs more than a standard container yard, coordinated with our operations team.
- Equipment and project cargo
- Coordinated handling
- Enquire for suitability
Dedicated Client Blocks
Reserved blocks for clients who want their own defined area, tailored to volumes and operating requirements.
- Reserved block layout
- Scalable with your volumes
- Contract options on request
Container Handling
Loading, offloading, stacking and repositioning with modern equipment.
Digital Container Visibility
Clear visibility of your containers during their time in the depot.
Container Selection & Pre-Advice
Pre-advice and selection to speed up gate processes and release.
Built Around Shipping Lines & Container Owners
Every capability supports one aim: dependable equipment availability and a predictable turnaround.
Inspection & Reporting
Condition assessment and reporting for better equipment control.
BCD Workshop
Container repairs, structural work and welding/fabrication support for operational continuity.
Reefer Support
Designated power and charging points with controlled handling for temperature-sensitive equipment. See reefer handling →
Washing & Preparation
Cleaning, inspection and preparation so containers are ready to redeploy.
Gate & Weighbridge
Controlled gate flow and accurate weight capture for compliant, transparent movements.
Truck Management
Controlled access, queueing and internal traffic flow for predictable turnaround.
Reefers, Open Tops & Specialised Units
Temperature-sensitive and out-of-gauge equipment needs more than yard space. BCD pairs dedicated infrastructure with written procedures, trained handlers and clear reporting.
Cold Chain Equipment, Kept Live From Gate-In to Gate-Out
A reefer is only as reliable as its power and its monitoring. BCD is set up around both, so that a unit is never left un-plugged, un-checked or un-reported.
Why the case for BCD is strong
Every hour a reefer spends without power or supervision is a risk to the cargo and a liability for the owner. Our reefer capability is built to close those gaps, and it sits 2.6 km from the Port of Mombasa, which shortens the interval between discharge and plug-in.
- Short port-to-plug interval — quick transfer from the terminal reduces time on battery, on genset or unpowered
- Dedicated reefer area — powered stacking kept apart from dry storage, with clear access lanes for inspection rounds
- Structured monitoring — scheduled checks and recorded readings, not ad-hoc walk-bys
- Defined alarm escalation — a named response path when a set-point, alarm code or power fault appears
- Backed by our workshop & parent group — on-site support, plus clearing and transport through Bilateral Semite SAP Ltd
Reefer handling capabilities
Reefer Plugs & Power Points
Designated reefer power points for 3-phase reefer units, with plug-in as a priority step immediately after gate-in and placement.
Reefer Gate-In Checks
Set-point vs. instructions, return-air/supply-air readings, unit condition, seal, door and body damage, recorded at gate-in with photos.
Scheduled Monitoring
Periodic rounds to read display temperatures, alarm codes and unit status, logged against the container record.
Alarm & Excursion Response
Alarms and out-of-range readings escalated to supervisors and the customer, with the action taken recorded.
Pre-Trip Inspection (PTI)
PTI and functional checks arranged for units due for redeployment, with results reported to the owner.
Reefer Repair Coordination
Container-body repairs in the BCD Workshop; refrigeration-unit faults coordinated with the owner’s appointed technician.
The reefer journey, step by step
- Pre-adviceCustomer sends set-point, commodity class, ventilation and any special instructions before arrival.
- Gate-in inspectionUnit and box condition, seals, temperature and settings verified and recorded.
- Priority plug-inPlaced in the reefer area and connected to power; running status confirmed on the display.
- Monitor & logScheduled readings, alarm checks and defrost observations kept on the unit’s log.
- ReportDaily or on-request status reports; immediate notification for any alarm or deviation.
- ReleaseUnplugged only at release, with final readings and condition recorded at gate-out.
Handling & risk controls
| Risk | How BCD controls it |
|---|---|
| Loss of power to a live unit | Plug-in prioritised at placement; routine rounds confirm each unit is running; supply faults escalated immediately |
| Temperature deviation | Readings logged against the agreed set-point; out-of-range values notified to the customer with action taken |
| Damage during movement | Reefers moved by trained operators using the reach stacker; cables secured before movement, and re-connected on placement |
| Unit and cable damage | Plug and cable condition checked at connection; damaged sockets or leads tagged and not used |
| Disputes over condition | Photographic gate-in / gate-out condition records and time-stamped monitoring logs |
| Cargo contamination | Reefers kept clear of dry-cargo operations; washing and preparation available for empty reefers before redeployment |
| Electrical safety | Only trained personnel connect or disconnect units; isolation, earthing and inspection of power points as part of depot safety rules |
Ideal for
- Shipping lines storing empty reefers awaiting redeployment
- Reefer equipment owners needing PTI and inspection
- Exporters and forwarders staging perishables before loading
- Importers with short-hold temperature-controlled cargo
What we need from you
- Unit number, size and reefer make / model
- Set-point, ventilation and humidity instructions
- Expected gate-in and gate-out dates
- Emergency contact for alarms, available around the clock
Tall, Oversize & Weather-Exposed Loads, Handled With Care
Open-top units carry cargo that cannot go through the door: machinery, pipes, steel and project items. They need different lifting, stacking and covering discipline from a standard box.
Handling standards
- Single-tier positioning — open tops carrying projecting or over-height cargo are stored where nothing is stacked on them
- Tarpaulin & bow inspection — cover, lashing points, roof bows and header checked at gate-in and recorded
- Load & lashing check — visible cargo securing, dunnage and overhang noted before movement
- Controlled lifting — reach-stacker lifts planned around cargo height and centre of gravity, with a banksman where needed
- Headroom & route planning — internal routes, gate and truck loading clearances confirmed for over-height loads
- Weather protection — tarpaulins re-inspected after heavy rain or wind; water-ingress risks flagged early
Open-top capabilities
Over-Height Cargo Planning
Dimensions and weights captured at pre-advice so lifts, stacking and transport are planned in advance.
Tarpaulin Checks
Sheets, ropes, buckles and roof bows inspected; damaged tarps reported so the customer can decide on repair or replacement.
Top & Side Loading Support
Coordinated loading and offloading of cargo through the open top, using suitable lifting arrangements agreed beforehand.
Weighbridge Verification
Gross weight captured at the gate weighbridge for compliant, transparent movements.
Workshop Repairs
Structural repairs, welding and header, door and floor work carried out in the BCD Workshop.
Condition Records
Photographic records of the box, cover and cargo at gate-in and gate-out to prevent disputes.
Best suited to
- Machinery and industrial equipment
- Steel, pipes and construction materials
- Project and break-bulk style cargo
- Shipping lines storing empty open tops
Before you send it
- Declare cargo dimensions, weight and any overhang
- Confirm tarpaulin condition and securing method
- Tell us if lifting points or slinging gear are needed
- Note that dangerous goods need prior written approval
Flat Racks, Tanks & Non-Standard Equipment
Beyond reefers and open tops, we assess other specialised units case by case. Suitability depends on size, weight, cargo and handling needs.
Flat Racks & Platforms
Storage and handling of flat-rack and platform equipment, subject to a prior assessment of dimensions and securing.
Tank & Specialised Boxes
Enquire with the cargo class and specification. Prior written approval is required for any hazardous contents.
Project & Equipment Storage
Space for equipment that needs more than a standard yard slot, coordinated with our operations team.
Safe Handling Is Not Optional
Trained Operators
Special equipment moved only by briefed, competent operators.
Written Procedures
Gate-in, storage, monitoring and release steps defined for each equipment type.
Full Records
Condition photos, readings and movement logs tied to each container.
Clear Accountability
A named contact for each account and a defined escalation path.
BCD is a depot and container logistics facility, not a CFS. Services are provided under the written quotation or agreement for each job; liability is as set out in that agreement, so customers should keep suitable cargo and equipment insurance.
Real-Time Visibility, Greater Control
BCD’s digital platform is designed to give customers clearer sight of container status, yard movements and gate activity.
Live Tracking & Inventory
Container location and status updates with live yard inventory.
Gate & ETA Notifications
Gate-in / gate-out alerts, ETA and operational status updates.
Reports & Analytics
Digital documentation, customer-specific reporting, and analytics on yard use and turnaround.
A Depot Management System, electronic gate processing and pre-advice workflows are being prepared for launch. GPS, web portal and mobile access will be added as systems are commissioned. BCD is a depot and container logistics facility, not a CFS; forwarding, customs and transport are supported through Bilateral Semite SAP Ltd.
One Partner from Port to Delivery
Our parent company, Bilateral Semite SAP Ltd, extends the depot into clearing, forwarding and transport.
Beyond the Depot Gate
Support for your cargo from port to final delivery.
Clearing & Forwarding
Customs clearing and forwarding support that fits neatly with your depot storage.
- Customs documentation support
- Coordination with port and lines
- Single point of contact
Full Container Transportation
Road transport of containers between the port, our depot and your destination.
- Port and depot transfers
- Short 2.6 km port corridor
- Rail connectivity potential
Empty Container Returns
Efficient return of empties to the shipping line or terminal, supported by our proximity to the port.
- Coordinated returns
- Fast turnaround near the port
- Reduced transport costs
How It Works
Request
Send your requirements via the quotation form.
Confirm
We agree space, terms and documentation.
Gate-In & Store
Containers are received, handled and stored.
Release & Deliver
Containers are released and moved onward or returned.
The Depot
10.34 acres. 7,500+ TEU planned capacity. Strategically positioned 2.6 km from the Port of Mombasa.
Changamwe Depot
Our depot in Changamwe Industrial Area is positioned minutes from the Port of Mombasa, with road and rail access for efficient container flow.
New Reach Stacker for Empty Containers
Efficient lifting, stacking and movement of empties, supported by modern equipment for safe, productive depot operations.
Facility Features
Everything planned around efficient container flow.
Primary Depot Site
About 8 acres (3.24 ha) with 7,500+ TEU planned capacity.
LEARN MORE →Future Expansion Land
2.34 acres (0.95 ha) of adjacent land.
LEARN MORE →Rail Siding
Metre-gauge railway connectivity.
LEARN MORE →Weighbridge
Weighbridge services with modern technology.
LEARN MORE →Warehouse Facility
Ready warehouse space for logistics needs.
LEARN MORE →Container Yard
Organised yard with dedicated client blocks.
LEARN MORE →A Controlled Operating Environment
Compacted stacking space, paved operational areas and supporting buildings, planned around gate-in to gate-out flow.
Capacity depends on the final yard configuration, stacking methodology, equipment capability, operating clearances and customer mix. A 50–60% operating utilisation range is targeted. The gate has an established weighbridge, and a metre-gauge railway line/siding runs behind the yard.
- Dedicated or client-specific container blocks
- Controlled gate-in / gate-out processes
- Reach-stacker operating areas
- Inspection and condition-reporting areas
- Repair coordination, washing and maintenance
- BCD Workshop for container and equipment support
- Security gate, CCTV and perimeter controls
- Office, administration and internal truck routes
Where Operations Are Managed
Our two-storey office block houses administration and operations on the same site as the yard and gate, keeping customers close to the team handling their containers.
Call ahead and we will arrange a facility walk-through, including the office, gate and yard.
ARRANGE A VISIT →Why Changamwe?
2.6 km From the Port
Short port transfers mean quicker turnaround and lower transport costs.
Rail Connectivity
A metre-gauge siding serves the depot for inland movement.
Road Access
Changamwe Industrial Area connects to Mombasa’s main corridors.
Northern Corridor connectivity gives access to inland and cross-border markets: Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, Tanzania and the DRC.
Depot Photos
Partner with Us
Work with a depot that acts as an extension of your logistics team.
Built for the Whole Logistics Chain
Partners across the container and logistics ecosystem.
Shipping Lines
Reliable empty-container storage close to the port.
Freight Forwarders
Storage, clearing and transport from one team.
Importers & Exporters
Flexible space and support for your cargo flows.
Logistics Companies
Depot capacity and equipment to complement your operations.
How We Can Work Together
Dedicated Client Blocks
Reserved yard blocks sized to your volumes.
Long-Term Storage
Agreed terms and space for ongoing storage needs.
Integrated Logistics
Storage with clearing, forwarding and transport under one agreement.
What You Get
Strategic Location
2.6 km from the port, with rail connectivity.
Room to Grow
7,500+ TEUs planned, expansion land ready.
Modern Equipment
Reach-stacker handling and weighbridge.
Digital Visibility
Clear visibility of your containers.
Integrated Support
Backed by Bilateral Semite SAP Ltd.
Responsive Team
Dedicated contact and 24/7 phone support.
A Depot Node for Your Empty-Equipment Network
BCD provides a controlled location for empty-container storage, inspection, handling and redeployment, with dedicated blocks for individual shipping lines or strategic customers.
- Dedicated equipment blocks and controlled inventory
- Inventory visibility and reporting
- Pre-advice and controlled gate processes
- Inspection and condition reporting
- Lifting, stacking and repositioning
- Washing and repair coordination
- Truck dispatch and equipment release support
- Reporting aligned with agreed requirements
- Capacity that scales as allocations grow
Allocate equipment. Define service levels. Establish reporting. Scale volumes with confidence.
BCD is a depot and container logistics facility, not a CFS. Complementary forwarding, customs and transport can be supported through Bilateral Semite SAP Ltd.
Grow With BCD
A physical logistics infrastructure platform in a major East African gateway, with a phased ramp-up from launch on 1 November 2026.
Shipping-Line Contracts
Anchor relationships built on dedicated blocks and agreed service levels.
Strategic Investment
Infrastructure with a scalable model tied to throughput and utilisation.
Equipment Finance
Partnerships around yard and handling equipment.
Technology
Depot systems, tracking and customer visibility.
Transport
Truck dispatch, port transfers and returns.
Container Services
Repairs, washing, inspection and value-added depot services.
Become a BCD Partner
Tell us about your volumes, container types and the partnership you have in mind. Our team will get back to you promptly.
Partner Enquiry
Request a Quote or Book a Visit
Tell us what you need. We reply with a proposal, usually within one working day.
Three Steps to Depot Space
1. Send the form with your volumes and start date.
2. We propose a layout, rates and handling plan.
3. Confirm, and we onboard you before your first gate-in.
Prefer to talk? Call +254 786 330 334 (24/7) or email info@bilateralcontainerdepot.com.
Your Request
Privacy Policy
What we collect
When you send an enquiry we receive the details you type into the form: name, company, email, phone and message. Gate and yard operations may also record vehicle, driver and container details for security and documentation.
How we use it
We use your details only to answer enquiries, quote, deliver services, meet legal duties and keep the depot secure. We do not sell personal data.
Sharing
We share data only with shipping lines, customs, port and transport partners involved in your job, or where the law requires it.
Your rights
You may ask to see, correct or delete the personal data we hold, subject to Kenya's Data Protection Act, 2019. Write to us at the address below.
Last updated September 2026. Questions: info@bilateralcontainerdepot.com
Terms & Conditions
Services
Storage, handling and related services are provided under the written quotation or agreement for each job. Rates and free periods are those stated in your quotation.
Cargo and equipment
Customers must declare contents, weight and condition accurately. Dangerous or prohibited goods are not accepted without prior written approval.
Liability
Care is taken with every unit in our yard. Liability is limited as set out in your agreement, and customers should keep suitable cargo and equipment insurance.
Access and safety
Everyone entering the depot must follow site safety rules, gate procedures and staff instructions.
Enquiries
Terms may be updated from time to time. The version on this page applies to new bookings.
Last updated September 2026. Questions: info@bilateralcontainerdepot.com
Contact Us
Our team is available by phone 24/7. Call, email or visit our Changamwe depot.
Head Office
Bilateral Container Depot
Changamwe Industrial Area
Mombasa, Kenya
Port Proximity
About 2.6 km from the Port of Mombasa
Main Depot & Head Office
Bilateral Container Depot, Changamwe Industrial Area, Mombasa, Kenya.
Send a Message
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions we hear most.
BCD is in Changamwe Industrial Area, Mombasa, about 2.6 km from the Port of Mombasa.
Containers, including empties, and specialised equipment. Contact us to confirm suitability for specific cargo.
Yes. We provide reefer plug-in, monitoring and reporting, and structured open-top handling. Send the unit details and set-point or cargo dimensions with your request so we can confirm plug capacity and handling in your quotation.
Yes. Dedicated client blocks are available, sized to your volumes.
Yes. Through Bilateral Semite SAP Ltd we offer clearing and forwarding, full container transportation and empty container returns.
A metre-gauge railway siding serves the depot in Changamwe Industrial Area.
Use the Request Quotation form, call +254 786 330 334 or email info@bilateralcontainerdepot.com.
Ready to Move Your Containers?
Get a quotation for depot storage and logistics.