Buying a car in Kenya is becoming more expensive, and many people are now choosing to import cars from Japan to Kenya because it is cheaper, safer, and offers more options. If you are a first-time buyer and planning to import your dream vehicle, this guide will help you understand the entire process in simple English.
Importing a car may feel confusing at first, but with the right information and a trusted partner such as CarsKenya, the process becomes smooth, affordable, and stress-free.
Why Kenyans Prefer Importing Cars in 2025
More Kenyans are choosing importation because:
- You get quality cars with genuine mileage
- Japanese sellers offer a wide selection
- Importing is cheaper than buying locally
- You can access hybrid cars, SUVs, and new models
- You avoid Kenya’s inflated dealer prices
Whether you plan to import a Toyota, Mazda, Honda, Nissan, or Subaru, the Japanese market will always give you better value.
Understanding the Kenyan Car Import Rules
Before you import a car, you must follow Kenya’s import rules:
- The car must be less than 8 years old from the year of first registration.
- Vehicles must undergo JEVIC or QISJ inspection before shipping.
- Importers must pay taxes to Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).
- The car must meet Kenyan safety and emission standards.
Inspection details:
➡ https://www.jevic.co.jp/
Step-by-Step Process for Car Import Kenya
1. Identify the Car You Want
Start by deciding:
- Your budget
- Fuel type (petrol or hybrid)
- Body type (SUV, sedan, hatchback, etc.)
- Features you need
You can browse cars on platforms like BeForward, SBT Japan, or use CarsKenya’s import assistance.
2. Get a Quotation From a Trusted Importer
Working with reliable car dealers in Kenya helps you avoid risk and hidden costs.
A quotation should include:
- C&F price
- Duty estimate
- Clearing & registration costs
- Shipping timelines
- Payment requirements
For secure quotes, visit CarsKenya blog:
➡ https://carskenya.co.ke/blog
3. Pay the Deposit or Use Car Import Financing Kenya
Most importers allow:
- 50% deposit to ship the car, or
- Car import financing Kenya options through SACCOs and microfinance institutions.
Financing helps you import the car even if you don’t have full cash.
4. Car Is Purchased From Japan
Your importer will:
- Buy the car from Japan
- Confirm mileage
- Run background checks
- Book inspection
This step prevents you from buying a damaged car.
5. Car Is Shipped to Kenya
Shipping takes 28–45 days depending on the vessel schedule. The importer should give you:
- BL number
- Ship name
- Expected arrival date
6. Clearing, Duty, and Registration
When the car arrives:
- It is cleared at Mombasa port
- You pay import duty through KRA
- NTSA registers the car
- Number plates are issued
For tax guidelines:
➡ https://kra.go.ke/vehicle-import-guidelines
7. Door-to-door Car Import Kenya
Many buyers choose door-to-door car import Kenya, where the car is delivered directly to Nairobi or any other town.
This service saves time and removes the stress of clearing and registration.
CarsKenya offers full door-to-door delivery services.
How to Save Money When Importing a Car in Kenya
✔ Choose fuel-efficient hybrid cars
✔ Compare C&F prices
✔ Avoid middlemen
✔ Use import financing to spread payments
✔ Import in January–March when shipping rates are low
Car import scams are increasing. Avoid:
How to Avoid Scams
- Paying full amount upfront
- Dealing with people on social media without verification
- Sellers who do not offer inspection certificates
- Unrealistic cheap prices
- Importers with no office or business registration
CarsKenya is a verified importer with a physical office and hundreds of successful deliveries.
Conclusion
Importing a car for the first time may seem complicated, but with this guide and a trusted partner, you will save money and avoid common mistakes. Whether you want to buy cars online Kenya, import a hybrid car, or ship a luxury SUV, you can get a better deal by importing directly.
