Guide 1: How to Import a Car from Japan to Kenya – Full Process, Costs & Expert Tips

Planning to import a Japanese car to Kenya?

Our comprehensive 4-part guide takes you through everything you need to know. We start by breaking down the complete importation process, including all costs and insider tips to save money.

Next, we will teach you how to navigate Japanese car auctions like a pro, understanding quality grades and bidding strategies.

Finally, we will help you identify reliable import agents in Kenya while steering clear of common scams. Whether you are a first-time importer or looking to refine your process, this series will be your essential roadmap to successfully importing your dream car from Japan.

In this first guide of our -part series, we will walk you through every step of the importation process, from selecting your car to driving it home. We will break down all the costs involved, share money-saving tips that only industry veterans know, and help you avoid the common pitfalls that can turn your car-buying dream into an expensive headache....

Lets get into it.....

Step 1: Research & Set a Budget

Choose Your Preferred Car

• Make & Model (Toyota, Nissan, Mazda, etc.)
• Year of Manufacture (Must be 8 years old or newer in Kenya)
• Mileage (Lower mileage typically costs more)
• Engine Size & Fuel Type (Petrol/Diesel/Hybrid)

Calculate Your Total Cost

Your total cost = Car Price + Shipping + Import Duties + Clearance Fees
Pro Tip: Use the KRA Import Duty Calculator (kra.go.ke) before buying to estimate total costs.
Common Mistake: Buyers assume only the auction price matters and fail to budget for full tax costs.

Step 2: Understanding the Auction Process (See Guide 2 for Details)

To ensure you get a high-quality car, you must understand how Japanese car auctions work and how to read auction sheets and grading.
For a detailed guide on auctions and grading, move to Guide 2:

Guide 2: How to Buy a High-Quality Car from a Japanese Auction – Grading, Bidding & What to Avoid

Buying from a Japanese car auction gives you access to high-quality, well-maintained cars at lower prices—but only if you understand how the auction system works. This article demystifies the auction process and turns you into a confident bidder.

Kifedha Credit | All About MoneyEunice Wanjiru

Step 3: Choosing a Trusted Import Agent (See Guide 3 for Deep Dive)

A reliable import agent simplifies the process, helping you find the right car, handle bidding, and ensure compliance with Kenyan regulations.
For full details on choosing an agent, move to Guide 3

Guide 3: How to Find a Trusted Car Import Agent in Kenya & Avoid Costly Scams

Navigating the complex world of car importation in Kenya requires choosing the right import agent to avoid costly scams and legal complications. This comprehensive guide reveals essential tips for identifying legitimate import agents and protecting yourself when importing your vehicle

Kifedha Credit | All About MoneyEunice Wanjiru

Step 4: Inspection & Shipping (Pre-Shipment Checks & Logistics)

Before your car is shipped, it must pass inspection and meet Kenyan import standards.
✅ Mandatory Pre-Shipment Inspections

✔ JEVIC (Japan Export Vehicle Inspection Center)

✔ QISJ (Quality Inspection Services Japan)
For common cost traps and importation pitfalls, see Guide 4: The Real Cost of Importing a Car to Kenya – Avoid Hidden Fees & Costly Mistakes

Step 5: Port Clearance & Registration

Once your car arrives at Mombasa port, it must be cleared through customs before registration.
✅ Required Documents for Clearance

✔ Bill of Lading (BoL)

✔ JEVIC/QISJ Certificate

✔ Import Declaration Form (IDF)

✔ KRA Customs Release Order

Late clearance results in storage fees at the port. Work with a licensed clearing agent to avoid delays.

Step 6: Final Registration & Road Readiness

✅ Register the car with NTSA via TIMS (www.tims.ntsa.go.ke)

✅ Get Insurance (Third-party or Comprehensive)

✅ Pay Annual Road License Fees (Varies by engine size)

Key Takeaways for Kenyan Car Buyers

• Follow these steps carefully to avoid fines & delays.
• Verify auction sheets & JEVIC/QISJ certification before shipping.
• Use KRA’s duty calculator to estimate import costs.
• Track your car shipment using Marine Traffic.
• Work with a licensed clearing agent at Mombasa Port.

Next Steps: Now that you understand the process, proceed to Guide 2 to understand Japanese Auction

Guide 2: How to Buy a High-Quality Car from a Japanese Auction – Grading, Bidding & What to Avoid

Buying from a Japanese car auction gives you access to high-quality, well-maintained cars at lower prices—but only if you understand how the auction system works. This article demystifies the auction process and turns you into a confident bidder.

Kifedha Credit | All About MoneyEunice Wanjiru

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