Complete Guide to Importing a Car to Kenya (2026)

Why import?

Importing from Japan or the UK gives you access to a wider range of models, often at lower prices than locally available stock. But the process has strict rules, and mistakes are expensive.

Step 1 — Choose your source country

• **Japan** — largest supply of used cars, auction grade system, well-established clearing agents.
• **UK** — good for European brands (BMW, Mercedes, VW), but higher shipping costs.
• **Singapore / UAE** — smaller supply, occasionally competitive for luxury models.

Step 2 — Understand CRSP duty rates

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) uses the Current Retail Selling Price (CRSP) schedule to calculate customs duty. Your total import cost is:

Purchase price + Shipping + Insurance + Customs duty (35% + 25% excise + 16% VAT) + Clearing agent fees + Registration

The CRSP value is based on the car's make, model, year, and engine capacity — not what you actually paid.

Step 3 — Check eligibility

• The car must be **less than 8 years old** from the date of first registration.
• Right-hand drive only (Kenya drives on the left).
• Must meet Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) requirements.

Step 4 — Find a reliable supplier

• Japanese auction houses (USS, HAA, TAA) require a licensed exporter.
• UK salvage and used car dealers ship via RORO or container.
• Always verify the auction grade or inspection report before paying.

Step 5 — Shipping and insurance

• **RORO (Roll-on/Roll-off)** — cheaper, car is driven onto the ship. Good for standard vehicles.
• **Container** — more expensive but protects the car. Better for luxury or classic vehicles.
• Marine insurance is mandatory. Insure for full replacement value.

Step 6 — Clearing in Kenya

Hire a licensed clearing agent. They handle: - KRA duty assessment and payment - KEBS inspection (PVOC or destination inspection) - NTSA registration and number plate assignment

Typical clearing timeline: 2–4 weeks from arrival at Mombasa port.

Step 7 — Registration

Once cleared, register with NTSA. You'll need: - Import entry document - Customs duty payment receipt - KEBS certificate - Insurance cover note - ID or passport copy

Common mistakes to avoid

• Buying a car that is too old (over 8 years) — it will be rejected at the port.
• Not factoring in the full duty cost — many buyers only budget for the purchase price.
• Using unlicensed clearing agents — they can delay your release by months.
• Skipping marine insurance — a damaged car at sea with no insurance is a total loss.

Budget example (2020 Toyota Corolla 1.8L)

| Item | Estimated cost (KES) | |------|---------------------| | Japan purchase | 800,000 | | Shipping (RORO) | 120,000 | | Insurance | 25,000 | | Duty (CRSP-based) | 450,000 | | Clearing agent | 45,000 | | Registration | 15,000 | | **Total landed** | **~1,455,000** |

Compare this against a locally available equivalent before you commit.

Next steps

Use our duty calculator to estimate your specific car's import cost, then browse local listings to see if buying locally is cheaper after all fees.