
Importing a used car to Kenya can be a smooth and rewarding process—especially when you’re informed about the steps, taxes, and trusted platforms to use. At Cars Request Africa, we’ve streamlined the process for hundreds of satisfied clients. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, including cost breakdowns, payment plans, and legal requirements.
Why Choose CarsForSale?
- 🚗 Access to hundreds of Japan-based units from reputable suppliers.
- 💳 Flexible payment: Only 50% down payment required to initiate shipping.
- 🤝 Trusted process with legal agreements and transparent fees.
- 📦 Doorstep delivery or pickup at Mombasa port.
Step-by-Step Guide to Importing a Car to Kenya
1. Browse and Choose Your Vehicle
Start by browsing our extensive listings of high-quality used cars from Japan and other source markets at CarsForSale.co.ke.
How to Choose the Right Vehicle:
- Use filters to narrow down by make, model, engine size, mileage, and year.
- Compare multiple vehicles and request vehicle inspection reports.
- Consider your needs—e.g., fuel efficiency for city driving or 4WD for rural areas.
- Contact our support team for professional recommendations.
2. Request a Quotation
Submit an inquiry and we’ll provide a detailed quote that includes:
- Vehicle cost (FOB – Free on Board)
- Freight charges to Mombasa port
- Estimated taxes and levies in Kenya
3. Legal Agreement & Verification
Once you decide to proceed:
- We send you a legally binding Purchase Agreement.
- You sign and return the agreement, authorizing us to import the car on your behalf.
- We verify your identity and KRA PIN (Kenya Revenue Authority).
4. Pay 50% Downpayment
After signing the agreement:
- You pay 50% of the total cost, which covers sourcing and shipping the car.
- We provide you with a transaction receipt and expected shipping timelines.
5. Shipping and Documentation
- The vehicle is shipped to the Port of Mombasa.
- You receive a Bill of Lading, Inspection Certificate (QISJ/JEVIC), and Export Certificate.
6. Customs Clearance & Fee Breakdown
Upon arrival in Mombasa:
- We handle customs clearance and pay all necessary duties.
- Fees include:
- Import Duty (25%)
- Excise Duty (20% for cars <3L, 35%+ for larger engines)
- VAT (16%)
- Import Declaration Fee (2.25%)
- Railway Development Levy (1.5%)
7. Final Payment & Registration
- You clear the remaining 50% balance.
- We handle NTSA registration, assign a Kenyan plate number, and issue a logbook.
8. Delivery or Pickup
- Choose Mombasa pickup or request delivery to your location anywhere in Kenya.
Example: Toyota Axio 2016 (1500cc)
- FOB Price (Japan): KES 800,000
- Freight: KES 120,000
- Import Duty + Excise + VAT + IDF + RDL: ~KES 430,000
- Total Cost (Delivered & Registered): KES 1,350,000
- Initial Payment: KES 675,000 (50%)
What You’ll Need to Provide
- National ID / Passport
- KRA PIN Certificate
- Signed Purchase Agreement
- Proof of downpayment
Visual Overview of the Process
- 🖱️ Choose Vehicle →
- 📑 Quote & Agreement →
- 💳 50% Downpayment →
- 🚢 Shipping →
- 🧾 Clearance & Fees →
- ✅ Final Payment & Registration →
- 🚚 Delivery or Pickup
Final Thoughts
Importing your dream car no longer has to be complicated. With CarsForSale.co.ke, you get a secure, legal, and cost-effective process handled by professionals from sourcing to delivery. Avoid middlemen and get full control over what you’re importing.
🛻 Ready to bring your dream car home? Start Your Import Journey Today!