Importing used cars to Kenya has become a popular trend, with many Kenyans looking to countries like Japan, the UK, and the USA for high-quality vehicles. However, the process of importing can be meticulous, and there are specific rules and regulations set by Kenyan authorities that one must adhere to. This article provides an authentic guide on how to go about importing used cars to Kenya.
Why Import Used Cars to Kenya? :
Most Kenyan roads are adorned with used cars, primarily from Japan. The demand for these vehicles has surged due to their affordability, reliability, and less wear compared to locally-owned cars. Moreover, with the availability of online car auctions and transparent business operations by car exporting companies, it has become easier for individuals to directly purchase and import vehicles.
Key Regulations for Importing Used Cars :
Age Restriction: One of the primary rules for importing cars to Kenya is the age restriction. Only vehicles manufactured within the last seven years are permitted for importation. This rule ensures that only relatively newer vehicles, which are more environmentally friendly and safer, are brought into the country.
Right-Hand Drive:
Kenya, like many other countries worldwide, has a rule that only right-hand drive vehicles are allowed for registration. Left-hand drive vehicles can only be registered if they serve a specific, official purpose.
Road Worthiness:
Before any vehicle is shipped to Kenya, it must undergo a roadworthiness inspection. This inspection, often conducted by organizations connected to KEBS (Kenya Bureau of Standards), ensures that the vehicle is safe for Kenyan roads.
Taxation and Duties :
Importing a vehicle isn’t just about paying for the car and shipping costs. There are several taxes and duties imposed by the Kenyan government:
Import Duty :
Approximately 25% of the car’s value.
Excise Duty: This varies with the vehicle category but is generally around 20% of the total import duty and customs value.
Value Added Tax (VAT): 16% of the cumulative import duty, customs value, and excise tax.
Import Declaration Fee (IDF): Either a minimum of 5,000 USD or roughly 2.25% CIF, whichever is higher.
Documentation Required
When importing a car to Kenya, several documents are required for customs clearance :
*Original invoice for services
*Authentic bill of lading
*Certificate of pre-shipment inspection (verifying roadworthiness)
*A duplicate of your PIN card
*Authentic, original logbook from the country of origin
Conclusion :
While importing a used car to Kenya might seem like a daunting task, understanding the rules, regulations, and processes can make it a smooth experience. By adhering to the guidelines set by the Kenyan authorities and ensuring all documents are in order, one can enjoy the benefits of driving an imported vehicle on Kenyan roads.
If you are looking for any Japanese vehicles , cars and truck and bus , please check our list.
The list of Japanese Used CAR , Truck and bus exporter EVERYCAR.jp (* Click to open).
We do our best work for all customer’s partnership.
It’s for SDGs Goal number 17 “PARTNERSHIP FOR THE GOALS”
Let’s work together !!
