Most cars take between 45–60 days from Japan to Kenya depending on:
● Shipping schedule
● Port congestion
● Documentation processing
● Inspection timelines
Cars already “On the Way” can arrive much faster.

Kenya allows importation of vehicles that are:
● Not more than 8 years old from the year of first registration.
Example:
● In 2026, the oldest allowed car is a 2019 model.

Common documents include:
● Bill of Lading
● Export Certificate
● Commercial Invoice
● JEVIC/QISJ inspection certificate
● KRA PIN copy
● ID/Passport copy

The total cost depends on:
● FOB price
● Shipping cost
● Engine size
● Customs duty
● Excise duty
● VAT
● Clearing charges
Most importers provide:
● CIF price
● Duty estimate
● Landing cost in Nairobi

CIF means:
● Cost + Insurance + Freight
It is the cost of the vehicle delivered to Mombasa port before taxes and local clearance charges.

Most importers provide:
● CIF price
● Duty estimate
● Landing cost in Nairobi

Duty is calculated using:
● Customs Value
● Engine capacity
● Current Retail Selling Price (CRSP)
● Excise duty percentage
● VAT
Taxes usually include:
● Import Duty
● Excise Duty
● VAT
● IDF
● Railway Development Levy

Yes. Hybrid vehicles are highly popular because they:
● Save fuel
● Have lower emissions
● Offer better resale value
Popular hybrids:
● Toyota Harrier Hybrid
● Toyota Voxy Hybrid
● Toyota Alphard Hybrid
● Honda Vezel Hybrid

In many cases, yes. Importing gives:
● Better condition vehicles
● Lower mileage
● Better specifications
● Wider variety
● Genuine auction grades
● Duty estimate
● Landing cost in Nairobi

Auction grade shows the condition of a vehicle in Japan.
Common grades:
● Grade 4.5 → Excellent
● Grade 4 → Very good
● Grade 3.5 → Good used condition
● RA/R → Repaired accident history

It is a mandatory roadworthiness inspection required before shipping to Kenya.
The inspection checks:
● Odometer authenticity
● Roadworthiness
● Emissions
● Safety standards