If you have never imported a car before, you may wonder how the entire process works. This guide explains the step-by-step process, including inspection, shipping, duty, clearing, and delivery. It also covers the exact costs you should expect when planning to import cars from Japan to Kenya.
1. Choose the Car You Want
Start by deciding:
- Budget
- Fuel efficiency
- Hybrid or petrol
- Size (SUV, sedan, hatchback)
- Model year
Platforms like BeForward and SBT help you compare prices, but working with car dealers in Kenya gives you extra safety.
2. Request a Full Cost Breakdown
Your importer should send:
- C&F Japan price
- Duty estimate
- Port charges
- Registration fees
- Delivery charges (door-to-door)
You can also check CarsKenya’s cost calculation guides on their blog.
3. Pay Deposit or Use Car Import Financing Kenya
Most importers ship the car with a 50% deposit.
If you do not have the full amount, you can use car import financing through:
- SACCOs
- Microfinance institutions
- Banks
- Employer-backed loans
This makes importing more affordable.
4. Vehicle Inspection (Mandatory)
Every vehicle must pass:
- JEVIC inspection, or
- QISJ inspection
This ensures the car is roadworthy and meets Kenyan standards.
Inspection fees range from Ksh 18,000 – 25,000.
5. Shipping From Japan
Shipping takes 28–45 days.
During this time, your importer should provide:
- BL (Bill of Lading)
- Ship name
- Expected arrival date
6. Duty and Taxes Explained
Taxes you must pay include:
- Import Duty – 25%
- Excise Duty – varies by engine size
- VAT – 16%
- IDF Fee – 2%
- RDL Fee – 1.5%
Duty-free importation is available for:
- Diplomats
- Returning residents
- Persons with Disabilities
Learn more:
➡ https://kra.go.ke/vehicle-import-guidelines
7. Clearing and Port Charges
These include:
- Wharfage
- Port handling
- Shipping line charges
- Number plates
- NTSA TIMS fees
A good importer will handle all this for you.
8. Door-to-Door Car Import Kenya
This service means:
- Your car is cleared at Mombasa
- Registered under NTSA
- Number plates issued
- Delivered to Nairobi or your location
It saves time and removes stress.
CarsKenya offers reliable door-to-door delivery.
9. Buying Cars Online Kenya – What You Must Check
When buying a car online:
- Verify chassis
- Check photos carefully
- Confirm mileage
- Check service records
- Make sure seller has office presence
Never send money to social media sellers without proper documents.
10. Full Step-by-Step Summary
- Choose your car
- Request quotation
- Pay deposit or use financing
- Car inspection
- Shipping
- Pay duty
- Clearing
- Registration
- Delivery
- Handover
Conclusion
Now you understand the full process of car importation in Kenya, including every cost you should expect. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or upgrading your vehicle, importing gives you better value and more options than buying locally.
