Car Import Liaison Service

End‑to‑end support for importing vehicles into Kenya.

Crescent Systems Kenya liaises with reputable car importers to facilitate the importation of vehicles. We help you navigate the regulatory requirements and connect you with trusted partners who handle the logistics.

Kenya’s Vehicle Import Requirements

Importing a used vehicle into Kenya is subject to strict regulations enforced by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) and the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA). Key requirements include:

• Age limit – used vehicles must be not more than eight years old from the year of first registration
• Right‑hand drive – vehicles must be right‑hand drive
• Pre‑shipment inspection – all used vehicles must undergo a roadworthiness inspection by a KEBS‑approved agent in the export country before shipping
• Pre‑Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC) – confirms the vehicle meets KEBS safety and environmental standards
• Customs clearance – a KEBS certificate is required for customs clearance at the port of entry

How Crescent Systems Kenya Helps

We work with established importers to manage the import process, including:

• Vehicle sourcing – identifying vehicles that meet your specifications
• Inspection coordination – ensuring the vehicle passes the mandatory pre‑shipment inspection
• Shipping and logistics – arranging transport from the export country to Mombasa
• Port handling and customs clearance – liaising with clearing agents to handle documentation and duty assessment
• Registration support – assisting with local registration once the vehicle arrives

Important: Import duties and taxes vary based on the vehicle’s value, age, and engine capacity. These include import duty, excise duty, VAT, Railway Development Levy, and Import Declaration Fee. We provide estimates, but final figures are determined by KRA.

Why Use a Liaison Service?

Importing a vehicle independently involves complex paperwork, regulatory compliance, and coordination with multiple parties. Using a liaison service reduces the risk of delays, penalties, or rejected shipments.

We do not import vehicles ourselves — we connect you with reputable, licensed importers and clearing agents who handle the process professionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the pre‑inspection cost?
The inspection fee is KSh 5,000 per vehicle.

Do I need a pre‑purchase inspection if I’m buying from a dealer?
Yes. Even reputable dealers may not have full visibility into a vehicle’s history. An independent inspection gives you an objective assessment.

What documents are required for importing a vehicle?
Key documents include a commercial invoice, Bill of Lading/Air Waybill, Certificate of Origin, Pre‑shipment inspection certificate, and a copy of your PIN certificate.

How long does the import process take?
The full process typically takes 45 to 60 days from sourcing to delivery.

Can I import a vehicle older than eight years?
No. KEBS regulations prohibit the importation of used vehicles older than eight years from the year of first registration.

Get a Quote

Contact us with your vehicle requirements — make, model, year, budget, and any specific features you need. We will connect you with a reputable importer and guide you through the pre‑inspection and import process.

Crescent Systems Kenya – professional vehicle assessments and import liaison services, fitted to your needs.