A Detailed Guide for Car Imports from Japan to Kenya
Importing a car into Kenya is gaining popularity among buyers looking to own clean cars with genuine mileage at the best rates possible.
In this guide, we’ll explore the process of importing cars from Japan to Kenya, the benefits of importing cars, the steps involved, and important considerations to bear in mind.
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Contact us to Start Importing Your Car From Japan to kenya
Reach out to us today via phone or WhatsApp at 0728-308-043 or email us via importyourcar@bestcarsforsaleinkenya.co.ke. You can also visit our Ruiru offices at Greec Tower, 3rd floor.
Best Cars for Sale in Kenya Ltd. has vast experience in importing and selling cars from Japan and other overseas markets.
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Benefits of Importing Cars in Kenya
Those who import cars from UK to Kenya or from Japan to Kenya are likely to enjoy a range of benefits including:
- Wide selection: Japan, in particular, is known for its diverse and high-quality automotive market including popular brands, models, and specifications. It gives you access to vehicles that may not be readily available in Kenya. You also get a huge selection of cars to choose from.
- Quality and reliability: Vehicles from Japan and the UK are renowned for their exceptional quality, reliability, and durability. You can find well-maintained, low-mileage vehicles when you import used cars from these countries.
- Lower prices: In some cases, the cost of importing cars may be more effective than purchasing a similar vehicle locally. Even when considering factors such as exchange rate, import duty, other taxes, and market demand.
- Customization options: Importing provides flexibility in selecting specific models to suit their tastes and needs. You can choose your ideal colors, trims, and features. Better yet, find specialized cars like left-hand drive vehicles.
- Resale value: Japanese vehicles, in particular, retain their resale value well over time. You’re likely to see better resale prospects on your car compared to locally purchased vehicles.
Car Importation and its Top Benefits
Vehicle importation refers to bringing vehicles from one country into another for personal use, resale, or commercial purposes. It involves navigating various regulations, customs procedures, and documentation requirements set forth by government authorities.
The vehicle importer must comply with import regulations, pay applicable duties and taxes, and fulfill any other legal requirements to import and register the vehicle in the destination country legally.
Importers can be individuals, businesses, or automotive dealerships seeking to acquire specific vehicles not locally available or to meet market demand for certain models or specifications.
Vehicle Importation Process
Here are the steps involved in important a car to Kenya:
Research and Select A Car
Research the Kenyan automotive market to identify a car that suits your needs. Consider the make, model, year, mileage, roadworthiness, and specifications.
Explore reputable online marketplaces, car sellers, and automotive forums to gather information and compare options.
Finally, take into account your budget, intended use of the vehicle, maintenance costs, and availability of spare parts.
Understanding Import Regulations
Familiarize yourself with the import rules, regulations, and requirements set forth by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and other relevant authorities.
Learn about import duty, excise duty, and other levies applicable to your car.
You will want to check the eligibility criteria and conditions for importing vehicles, including age limit, emissions standards, and safety.
Keep in mind that the government does not permit the importation of vehicles older than eight years from the year of manufacture. Presently the year is capped at 2017.
Preparing Documentation
Obtain all necessary documentation required for the importation process, including proof of ownership, identification, and pre-shipment inspection certificate (road worthiness certificate).
Further, you have to prepare documents such as the original bill of lading, import declaration form, certificate of conformity (if applicable), and proof of payment
Shipping and Logistics
Part of the pre-shipment and import process involves choosing a reputable shipping company or freight forwarder to handle the transportation of your car.
Select a suitable shipping method, such as container shipping or roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) shipping, depending on your preferences and budget.
You will need to coordinate with a shipping company to arrange for transportation, insurance, and customs clearance at the port of entry in Kenya
Customs Clearance
Upon arrival in Kenya, your car will undergo customs clearance procedures at the port in Mombasa. We recommend working with a licensed customs clearing agent or broker.
They are useful in facilitating the clearance process, ensuring your car complies with import regulations. It’s here that you will pay the applicable import duty, taxes, and fees.
Vehicle Inspection and Compliance
After customs clearance, the car may undergo inspection to ensure compliance with Kenyan regulations and standards.
Schedule an inspection appointment and present your car along with all the required documentation, for assessment of its road worthiness, emissions, and safety features.
Registration and Licensing
Once the car has been cleared by customs and inspected, you are ready to proceed with registration and licensing with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).
The authorities will require you to submit all the necessary documentation for the car including proof of ownership, customs clearance certificate, and inspection reports. They will need these to register the car and issue license plates.
Partnering With a Car Import Company
Working with a car import company (like ourselves) to import your car into Kenya can help take the stress off of you.
The best car importing companies in Kenya will help you identify the best car in line with your preference and make the purchase.
They will also organize the shipment from Japan or the UK, tackle port clearance in Mombasa, and organize registration. Depending on your location, we will deliver the car to your doorstep.
Import Your Car to Kenya Through Us
Importing your car from the UK or Japan doesn’t have to be mysterious or complicated. You can leverage our experience and experience in the importation process to help you bring in your car.
Through our vast network of suppliers, shipping agents, and customs brokers in the UK and Japan, we will help you secure your dream car. These include unique or specialized vehicles such as left-hand drive vehicles.
Talk to us today and let us help you acquire the car of your dreams.
FAQs
What Are the Rules and Regulations for Vehicle Importation in Kenya?
The used cars must not be more than 8 years old from the year of first registration and meet minimum roadworthiness standards set by the KRA and KEBS. Also, they must be right-hand drive vehicles. Left-hand drive vehicles may be imported for specific purposes, with prior approval from the relevant authorities.
Is It Cheaper To Import a Used Car Through a Car Import Company?
Car import companies may have access to bulk purchasing discounts, preferential shipping rates, or negotiated pricing with suppliers and service providers. It may help lower the cost of importing a car in Kenya.
Do Returning Residents Pay Taxes for Their Cars?
Returning residents are not required to pay import duty, excise duty, or VAT on one car. They however must demonstrate that they resided outside Kenya and demonstrate that they are returning to the country. Further, they will need to provide evidence of ownership of the said car and usage for 12 months.
