Importing a car can save you up to 20% compared to buying from a local showroom, but only if you know the rules of the game. Here is what the pros look for.
1. The Auction Sheet is Your Bible
Never bid on a car without seeing the auction sheet. Look for Grade 4 or 4.5. Avoid 'R' (repaired) or 'RA' (accident history) grades. Check the 'interior' and 'exterior' letter grades (A is best, C is average).
2. The 8-Year Rule
Kenya strictly enforces that cars must be less than 8 years old from the year of first registration. In 2026, you should ideally be looking at 2019 models or newer to be safe and ensure the car has a longer useful life.
3. Port Clearance and Duty Finance
The biggest headache isn't the ship; it's the port. Ensure your clearing agent is KRA-verified. If your duty calculation comes back higher than expected, use Import Duty Finance to clear the car quickly and avoid daily storage (demurrage) fees of $30-$50.