How to Inspect a Used Car in the USA Before Shipping It to Kenya

Buying a used car in the USA to ship back to Kenya is an exciting idea. The selection is vast, prices can be surprisingly reasonable, and certain models are much easier to find than in Kenya. But here’s the catch: what looks perfect online or in photos might hide a world of problems under the hood. I’ve been through this process myself a few times, and I can tell you—it pays to be thorough. Skipping or rushing inspection can turn what seems like a bargain into a headache that stretches for months.

I remember the first time I considered buying a used SUV from Florida. The pictures were pristine, and the seller seemed trustworthy. Still, I insisted on doing a detailed check before committing. That decision saved me from picking up a vehicle with hidden water damage after a storm. From that experience, I learned the key steps in inspecting a used car before shipping it internationally.

Step 1: Start With the Vehicle History Report

Before you even think about hopping on a plane or calling a shipping agent, get the vehicle’s history report. Services like Carfax or AutoCheck provide detailed records of the car’s past ownership, accident reports, mileage verification, and sometimes service records.

For instance, I once nearly bought a sedan that seemed perfect. The history report flagged an accident five years prior. While it wasn’t catastrophic damage, the car had structural repairs that were not disclosed in the ad. Seeing that upfront allowed me to move on to a safer choice.

A history report won’t tell you everything—it can miss minor issues or unreported repairs—but it’s your first line of defense. Think of it as a screening tool, not a guarantee.

Step 2: Examine Photos Critically

Online listings often showcase only the best angles. I’ve seen sellers hide scratches, dents, or even rust spots just out of frame. Zoom in on images and pay attention to details like:

Panel gaps that don’t line up

Mismatched paint colors

Worn tires or faded interior

Sometimes even small inconsistencies can indicate bigger underlying problems. One SUV I looked at had a pristine body in pictures, but a close-up revealed bubbles in the paint near the rear wheel—likely water damage. A subtle thing, but potentially costly.

Step 3: Verify the Seller

Not all sellers are created equal. Some are private owners, others are dealerships, and a few might be “export specialists.” Each has its risks and benefits. Private owners might provide more flexibility, but dealerships often give more documentation.

Personally, I prefer dealing with sellers who have verifiable addresses and are open to video calls or live walkarounds. One time, I insisted on a 10-minute video tour of the car while the seller drove it around the neighborhood. That simple step showed me the engine bay was clean and that there were no obvious warning lights on the dashboard—a detail I wouldn’t have noticed in static photos.

Step 4: Inspect the Exterior

Assuming you—or a trusted representative—is physically inspecting the vehicle, start with the outside. Walk around slowly, examining:

Body panels: Check for dents, scratches, and signs of repair. Uneven surfaces might hint at a past collision.

Rust: Especially around wheel arches, door sills, and undercarriage. Rust can spread quickly, and repair costs can be steep.

Glass and lights: Chips or cracks in windshields, foggy headlights, or broken taillights can be more than cosmetic—they may affect safety inspections in Kenya.

A useful trick I learned: tap lightly on the panels. The sound difference between repaired and original metal is often noticeable if you’re patient.

Step 5: Check the Interior

The inside of the car tells a story about how it was treated. Look for:

Worn seats, especially the driver’s side

Stains, odors, or mold—water damage often leaves a smell

Functioning electronics, including infotainment systems, power windows, and air conditioning

I once overlooked a musty smell in a vehicle I was excited about. Later, a professional inspection revealed minor water damage in the trunk. Lesson learned: if the car has an odor, don’t ignore it.

Step 6: Inspect the Engine and Under the Hood

If you’re not a mechanic, this can feel intimidating, but basic checks can reveal a lot. Make sure the engine:

Starts smoothly and idles consistently

Shows no signs of oil leaks or corrosion

Has fluids (oil, brake, coolant) at proper levels and clean

I always ask the seller to start the engine while I listen closely. Odd noises, irregular ticking, or smoke from the exhaust are red flags. Even if everything seems okay, having a professional mechanic check it—either in person or via video consultation—is highly recommended.

Step 7: Take a Test Drive, If Possible

Nothing replaces a short drive. During the test, pay attention to:

How the car accelerates, brakes, and handles turns

Any unusual vibrations or noises

Transmission smoothness

Even a brief drive can reveal suspension issues or transmission glitches that a photoshoot wouldn’t show. I remember driving a compact SUV that seemed fine parked, but the steering felt loose and a grinding sound appeared when braking. Without the test drive, I would have imported a problematic car.

Step 8: Use a Professional Inspection Service

If you’re buying from a state far away, professional inspection services in the US can be invaluable. Companies like Lemon Squad or YourMechanic can provide a detailed report, including photos, notes on mechanical condition, and recommendations.

I’ve used these services multiple times. One report once revealed a frame issue on a seemingly perfect pickup truck. Skipping that inspection could have cost thousands in repairs after shipping to Kenya.

Step 9: Confirm Documentation

Before finalizing any purchase, verify all paperwork:

Title and registration match the seller

VIN numbers on documents and the vehicle itself are identical

Bill of sale includes all agreed terms

Missing or mismatched paperwork can lead to huge delays at customs in Kenya, or even legal headaches. I always take photos of everything and double-check the details myself.

Step 10: Consider Shipping Implications

Finally, the car you choose must be suitable for shipping. Consider:

Size and weight, which affect shipping costs

Condition—cars with severe leaks or mechanical issues may not survive long ocean trips

Compliance with Kenyan import regulations

I once almost shipped a car without confirming the engine size limit for Kenya. The process would have stalled at the port, causing unnecessary fees. Checking shipping requirements early saves time and money.

Conclusion: A Little Patience Goes a Long Way

Inspecting a used car before shipping it from the USA to Kenya may seem like a lot of work, but it’s worth every minute. I’ve learned the hard way that skipping even one step can turn what should be an exciting purchase into a financial and logistical nightmare. By taking your time, asking questions, and using available resources—vehicle history reports, photos, inspections, and test drives—you significantly reduce the risk of unpleasant surprises.

For me, the thrill of finding a well-maintained, affordable vehicle in the US is unmatched, especially when I finally see it arrive safely in Kenya. With careful inspection, your experience can be just as rewarding, minus the stress.

Published on: Sep 08, 2025

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