Kenya remains one of Africa’s strongest markets for imported vehicles, with demand driven by affordability, durability, and resale value. According to the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), the country imports between 70,000 and 80,000 vehicles every year, and over 80% of these are used vehicles, primarily from Japan and the UAE. This demand has created opportunities but also complexities for buyers. At Milele Export, we help Kenyan individuals, dealers, and fleet buyers navigate this process smoothly and confidently.

Below is a clear, step-by-step guide to importing a car to Kenya, built on real market data and Milele Export’s hands-on experience.

Step 1: Selecting the Right Vehicle for Kenya

The process starts with choosing a vehicle that fits Kenyan road conditions, fuel economy needs, and resale demand. SUVs, pickups, and fuel-efficient sedans dominate the Kenyan market due to mixed road conditions and long-distance driving needs. The Kenyan used car market alone is valued at over USD 1.2 billion, highlighting the scale of opportunity for buyers and resellers.

Milele Export sources vehicles that are already proven in East African conditions, prioritizing reliability, spare parts availability, and long-term value.

Step 2: Complying with Kenya’s 8-Year Import Rule

Kenya enforces a strict 8-year age limit on imported vehicles, calculated from the year of first registration. Any vehicle older than this is automatically rejected at the port. This is one of the most common reasons buyers face losses.

At Milele Export, all vehicles are pre-verified against Kenyan import regulations before purchase, ensuring compliance with KRA and NTSA requirements and eliminating unnecessary risk.

Step 3: Pre-Export Inspection and KEBS Certification

Every vehicle imported into Kenya must undergo a Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC) conducted by a KEBS-approved inspection agency. This inspection confirms roadworthiness, safety standards, and emissions compliance.

Milele Export manages the entire inspection process and shares certified inspection reports with clients before shipping. This transparency protects buyers and significantly reduces clearance delays once the vehicle arrives in Kenya.

Step 4: Accurate Documentation and Invoice Preparation

Proper documentation is critical to a smooth import process. Milele Export prepares and verifies all required documents, including the commercial invoice, export certificate, bill of lading, and KEBS inspection certificate.

Incorrect documentation can result in penalties, delays, or demurrage charges at Mombasa Port. Our structured documentation process ensures accuracy and compliance from day one.

Step 5: Shipping from UAE to Mombasa Port

Vehicles are shipped from UAE ports directly to Mombasa Port, Kenya’s primary vehicle import gateway. Transit times are competitive, and vehicles are securely handled to prevent damage.

Throughout the shipping process, Milele Export keeps clients informed with vessel schedules, estimated arrival dates, and shipment updates,because clarity builds confidence.

Step 6: Customs Clearance and Tax Breakdown

Upon arrival, customs clearance is handled through the Kenya Revenue Authority. Import taxes typically include:

Import Duty: 35% of CIF value

Excise Duty: 20–25% depending on engine size

VAT: 16%

Import Declaration Fee: 3.5%

Railway Development Levy: 2%

In most cases, total taxes can equal or exceed the vehicle’s CIF value. Milele Export provides pre-import duty estimations, helping buyers plan budgets accurately and avoid financial surprises.

Step 7: NTSA Registration and Final Delivery

After customs clearance, the vehicle is registered with NTSA, issued Kenyan number plates, and prepared for road use. At this stage, the vehicle is ready for personal ownership, resale, or fleet deployment.

Why Kenyan Buyers Trust Milele Export

Milele Export is more than a vehicle supplier. We are a UAE-based export partner with deep knowledge of African markets, compliance standards, and buyer expectations. Our clients choose us for verified vehicles, transparent pricing, regulatory guidance, and reliable shipping.

Whether you are importing a single car or building a dealer pipeline, Milele Export ensures the process is efficient, compliant, and profitable. Automotive, Mobility and Beyond.