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How to Import a Car from Japan to Kenya in 2025
A complete step-by-step guide to importing a car from Japan to Kenya — including costs, import duty calculator, timelines, and what to watch out for.
Why Import from Japan?
Japan is the world's largest exporter of used vehicles. Japanese cars are renowned for their reliability, low mileage, and excellent condition — largely because Japanese roads are well-maintained and the country has strict vehicle inspection laws (shaken) that encourage owners to sell cars early.
For Kenyan buyers, importing directly from Japan can save 20–40% compared to buying the same car from a local dealer. Popular models like Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, Subaru Forester, and Nissan X-Trail are widely available at Japanese auctions.
The Import Process — Step by Step
Choose Your Car
Browse auction sites like USS, TAA, or JAA in Japan, or tell us your specs and we source it for you. We check auction grades, mileage, and condition reports before bidding.
Purchase & Export
Once purchased, the car is prepared for export. A Japanese export certificate (de-registration) is issued. This takes 2–4 weeks.
Sea Shipping to Mombasa
Cars are shipped via RoRo (Roll-on Roll-off) vessel from Japan to Mombasa Port. Transit time is typically 4–6 weeks.
Customs Clearance at KRA
On arrival at Mombasa, KRA assesses import duty, excise duty, and VAT based on the car's CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight). We handle all paperwork.
Delivery to Nairobi
After clearance, the car is transported to our yard in Ridgeways, Nairobi. You inspect, pay the balance, and drive away.
Kenya Import Duty Calculator 2025
Based on KRA rates: Import Duty (25%) + Excise Duty (varies by CC) + IDF (3.5%) + RDL (2%) + VAT (16%)
* Estimates only. Actual KRA assessment may vary. Contact us for a precise quote.
Full Cost of Importing a Car to Kenya
Car Purchase Price
The auction or dealer price in Japan (JPY), converted to KES.
Shipping (RoRo)
Typically USD 800–1,500 depending on vessel and port of origin.
Marine Insurance
Usually 1–2% of the car value. Required for CIF calculation.
Import Duty (25%)
Charged on the CIF value by KRA at Mombasa port.
Excise Duty
5–35% depending on engine size. Charged on CIF + Import Duty.
VAT (16%)
Charged on the total of CIF + Import Duty + Excise + IDF + RDL.
IDF (3.5%)
Import Declaration Fee charged on CIF value.
Clearing Agent Fees
KSh 30,000–60,000 for customs clearance and documentation.
Transport to Nairobi
KSh 15,000–30,000 to truck the car from Mombasa to Nairobi.
NTSA Registration
KSh 5,000–15,000 for number plates and logbook.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the age limit for importing cars to Kenya?
Kenya allows importation of vehicles that are not more than 8 years old from the year of manufacture. For example, in 2025 you can import cars from 2017 onwards.
How long does the whole import process take?
From purchase in Japan to delivery in Nairobi, the process typically takes 8–12 weeks. This includes 2–4 weeks for export processing and 4–6 weeks for sea shipping.
Can I import a right-hand drive car to Kenya?
Yes. Kenya drives on the left, so right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles from Japan are perfectly legal and preferred.
What documents do I need?
You need: Export Certificate from Japan, Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and your KRA PIN. We handle all of these on your behalf.
Is it cheaper to import directly or buy locally?
Importing directly is typically 20–40% cheaper than buying the same car from a local dealer, especially for popular models like Toyota Prado, Land Cruiser, and Subaru Forester.
Let Us Handle Your Import
We've imported 500+ cars to Kenya since 2014. Tell us what you want and we'll source it, ship it, clear it, and deliver it to your door.