Exporting cars to Kenya? Whether you are shipping a vehicle for personal use or shipping multiple vehicles for business, you will be required to go through a stringent process that includes pre-inspection, payment of export fees, documentation and certification and other requirements set by law. Read on to know how to export cars to Kenya.
Regulations
There are 3 main regulations that cover car exports to Kenya. These are auto age limit, the ban on left-hand drive cars, and road-worthiness. As of 2018, only cars manufactured in 2011 onwards are allowed for export into the country. Also, left-hand drive vehicles are not allowed unless they are exported for a special purpose. Finally, motor vehicles for export into Kenya have to pass inspection prior to shipment and must be deemed roadworthy.
Documentary Requirements
Private individuals exporting cars from abroad must submit these documents to pass customs clearance in Kenya:
–completed booking form
–owner’s passport information
–QISJ Pre-shipment inspection certification
–original bill of lading
–KRA Pin certificate copy
Depending on the circumstances of the importer, additional documentation may be needed. For example, an exporter who is changing residences from abroad to Kenya may be required to present his or her original passport at customs. Other documents, such as work permits and the like may also be required for those working in the country.
Transit Times and Shipping Methods
Transit times average about 30 days from neighboring countries. Most ports also cater to different shipping methods such as roll on and off, container vehicle shipping and airfreight. Roll on and off ports are specifically designed to handle auto exports with vessels that can carry hundreds of cars in one trip, making them ideal for large-scale auto exports.
Shipping through container vehicles is another option. This is the safest of all shipping methods and is ideal for those who are shipping cars for personal or special uses. Most shipping companies offer either 20 ft. or 40 ft. options, and include services such as loading the vehicle into the container and shipping. It costs more than roll on and off shipping methods but the additional guarantee of safety is enough for many exporters to go this route, especially when dealing with custom or luxury cars. Private individuals who prefer this route can also ship other personal items in the container along with the vehicle.
Airfreight is another option for auto export shipping. This is the fastest mode of shipping although far more costly than the other two. Airfreight is ideal for custom and luxury cars as well.
Exporters have the option to process all requirements themselves or work with freight professionals. Many freight specialists offer shipping services to Kenya and assist owners and exporters in making sure that all necessary documents are completed before the shipment is made. Talk to your freight specialists today.
