The growing demand for cars in Kenya has made Japan one of the top sources for importing high-quality, reliable vehicles. Japanese cars are renowned for their affordability, durability, and variety. Many Kenyans prefer to import vehicles directly from Japan to get better deals compared to buying from local dealers. If you’re planning to import a car to Kenya from Japan, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, with CarsKenya.co.ke as your trusted partner for a seamless experience.
Why Import Cars from Japan?
Before we dive into the steps of importing a car from Japan, it’s essential to understand why so many Kenyans choose Japanese vehicles:
- Affordability: Cars in Japan are generally sold at a lower price than similar models in Kenya. By importing directly, buyers often save money even.
- Quality and Variety: Japanese cars, especially brands like Toyota, Nissan, and Honda, are known for their longevity and quality.
- Strict Vehicle Regulations: Japan’s strict vehicle inspection laws ensure that used cars remain in excellent condition, often with low mileage and regular maintenance.
- Fuel Efficiency: Many Japanese cars are built with fuel efficiency in mind, making them ideal for Kenyan roads where fuel prices can be a concern.
Steps to Import Cars to Kenya from Japan
Step 1: Choose the Right Car
The first step to Import Cars to Kenya from Japan is selecting the vehicle that suits your needs and budget. Whether you’re looking for a fuel-efficient sedan, a family SUV, or a powerful pickup truck, Japan offers a wide range of options. CarsKenya.co.ke can help you find the best deals on popular brands like Toyota, Subaru, Nissan, and Mazda.
Through their partnerships with trusted auction houses in Japan, CarsKenya.co.ke ensures that you can choose from a variety of vehicles at competitive prices. They guide you through the available options, provide detailed vehicle reports, and even offer advice on the best car models for Kenyan roads.
Step 2: Verify Vehicle Eligibility for Importation
Before making a purchase, it’s crucial to ensure that the car meets Kenya’s import regulations. The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has specific requirements for vehicles being imported into the country:
- Age Limit: The vehicle must not be older than eight years from the date of manufacture.
- Right-Hand Drive: The car must be a right-hand drive (RHD) vehicle.
- Roadworthiness: The vehicle must pass an inspection by the Japan Export Vehicle Inspection Center (JEVIC) to confirm its roadworthiness.
CarsKenya.co.ke assists buyers by verifying that the chosen vehicle meets all the necessary requirements, ensuring that your import process goes smoothly without any delays or complications.
Step 3: Payment and Shipping
Once you’ve selected the car, the next step is arranging for payment and shipping. CarsKenya.co.ke ensures a secure transaction process by offering multiple payment options and handling all communication with the Japanese dealers or auction houses.
After the payment is made, CarsKenya.co.ke takes care of the logistics involved in shipping the car to Kenya. They will provide you with two main shipping options:
- Roll-On Roll-Off (RORO): This is the most affordable and popular shipping method. Your car is driven onto the ship and driven off at the port in Mombasa.
- Container Shipping: If you prefer more security or are importing multiple vehicles, container shipping may be a better option.
Shipping typically takes between 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the shipping company and the route. During this time, CarsKenya.co.ke will keep you updated on the status of your car, providing peace of mind.
Step 4: Customs Clearance and Duty Payment
Once the car arrives at the port of Mombasa, it will need to go through customs clearance. The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) requires the payment of import duties and taxes before the vehicle can be released. The main fees include:
- Import Duty: 25% of the Customs Value (CIF)
- Excise Duty: 20% of the Customs Value plus Import Duty
- VAT: 16% of the Customs Value plus Excise Duty
- Railway Development Levy: 1.5% of the Customs Value
- Import Declaration Fee (IDF): 2% of the Customs Value
CarsKenya.co.ke provides a Kenya car import duty calculator on their website, which helps you estimate the total taxes and duties payable for your imported vehicle. This transparency ensures that you’re well-prepared and avoids any surprises during the import process.
Step 5: Registration and Delivery
Once the car has cleared customs, it needs to be registered with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA). The car will be assigned a Kenyan registration number, and roadworthiness inspections will be carried out.
CarsKenya.co.ke can assist in expediting this process, ensuring that your vehicle is registered and ready for the road as quickly as possible. They also offer delivery services to your preferred location within Kenya, making the entire process hassle-free.
Why Choose CarsKenya.co.ke?
When importing a car from Japan, having a trusted partner like CarsKenya.co.ke can make all the difference. Here’s why they stand out:
- Transparency: They provide clear, upfront pricing with no hidden costs, ensuring you know exactly what to expect.
- Expert Knowledge: With years of experience in car importation, CarsKenya.co.ke offers expert advice and guidance at every step of the process, from selecting the right vehicle to ensuring it meets Kenyan regulations.
- Wide Network of Trusted Suppliers: They work directly with reliable auction houses and dealers in Japan, ensuring you get the best deals on high-quality vehicles.
- Smooth Shipping and Customs Clearance: CarsKenya.co.ke handles all the logistics, including shipping, customs clearance, and registration, making the process hassle-free for you.
- After-Sale Support: Their services don’t end once your car is delivered. CarsKenya.co.ke offers ongoing support, ensuring you’re satisfied with your purchase and that your vehicle is in excellent condition.
Conclusion
Importing a car from Japan to Kenya can be a cost-effective and rewarding process, especially when you work with a reliable partner like CarsKenya.co.ke. With their expert guidance, transparent pricing, and commitment to customer satisfaction, they make the car importation process smooth and stress-free. Whether you’re looking for a family vehicle, a business car, or your dream ride, CarsKenya.co.ke is your go-to partner for importing cars from Japan to Kenya.
So, if you’re considering importing a car, visit CarsKenya.co.ke today and start your journey to owning a high-quality Japanese car at an affordable price!
