Top Tips for First-Time Buyers Shipping Cars from USA to Kenya

Buying a car from the United States and shipping it to Kenya can feel like a mix of excitement and mild panic. I remember the first time I considered it; scrolling through endless listings, I thought it would be as simple as “click, pay, ship.” Spoiler: it’s not. There’s a lot to consider, from the type of car to paperwork, shipping methods, and even hidden fees. After a few attempts and learning some hard lessons along the way, I’ve gathered practical tips that can help first-time buyers avoid common headaches and make the process a lot smoother.

Tip 1: Research the Car, Not Just the Price

When I first bought a sedan in Texas for shipping to Kenya, I was tempted by the price tag—less than $5,000, practically a steal. But cheap cars can hide issues. I learned the hard way that it’s not just the purchase price that matters; the car’s condition, mileage, and accident history are equally important.

Look at the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) history to check for accidents, repairs, or odometer tampering. Tools like Carfax or AutoCheck can help. Some sellers might underplay previous damage, and if you don’t verify, that cheap car could end up costing much more in repairs once it arrives in Kenya. A tip I wish I knew: focus on vehicles with clean or rebuilt titles rather than salvaged ones, at least for your first shipment. It can save you from unnecessary stress at customs.

Tip 2: Understand the Costs Beyond the Car

It’s easy to think shipping costs are just a flat rate, but there are multiple layers to factor in. Shipping a car from Miami to Mombasa might cost between $1,200 and $2,500, depending on the size of the vehicle, method of shipping, and insurance coverage. Then there are port handling fees, customs duties in Kenya, VAT, and sometimes storage charges if paperwork is delayed.

I once underestimated customs duties and had a $300 surprise at the port. Lesson learned: always check Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) rates, calculate taxes before purchase, and budget for at least 10–15% extra beyond the car’s purchase price. It might seem tedious, but it prevents nasty surprises when your car finally arrives.

Tip 3: Choose the Right Shipping Method

When it comes to shipping, there are usually two main options: Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) and container shipping. Each has pros and cons.

RoRo Shipping: Cars are driven onto the ship and secured on the deck. It’s cheaper but exposes your vehicle to the elements and slight risk of scratches or dents during transit.

Container Shipping: Your car is placed in a sealed container, sometimes shared with other vehicles. It costs more but offers better protection and more control over timing.

I opted for RoRo on my first shipment because it was cheaper, and the car arrived mostly fine, though there were minor scratches that I had to fix. If your car is high-end or new, container shipping may be worth the extra money.

Tip 4: Verify the Seller and Paperwork

One of the biggest mistakes I almost made was assuming a seller listing a “clean title” was trustworthy. Always verify the title, registration, and any liens. A car cannot legally be exported if it still has an outstanding loan.

Additionally, make sure the seller provides a clear Bill of Sale, the original title, and if the car is brand new, the Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO). These documents aren’t just formalities—they are critical for customs clearance both in the US and in Kenya. Without them, you could face delays or even have your car denied entry.

Tip 5: Pay Attention to Export Requirements

US customs requires certain forms before a car can leave the country. For vehicles valued over $2,500, you’ll need to file an Electronic Export Information (EEI) form. If you’re using a shipping agent, they often handle this, but if you’re shipping independently, you’ll have to submit it yourself.

On my second shipment, I procrastinated on filing the EEI, thinking the agent would automatically handle everything. Big mistake. The shipment was delayed for three days, which might not seem like much, but port storage fees can quickly add up. Filing early and double-checking documentation can save both money and frustration.

Tip 6: Plan for Insurance

It might be tempting to skip insurance to save costs, but shipping a car internationally is unpredictable. Storms, rough seas, or minor accidents on the dock can damage your vehicle. Comprehensive marine insurance protects against such risks.

I once opted for minimal coverage on a small sedan, thinking “what’s the worst that could happen?” Well, the car arrived with a few scratches and a dented bumper. It wasn’t catastrophic, but it could have been worse. A bit of coverage goes a long way in peace of mind.

Tip 7: Understand Kenyan Import Rules

Kenya has specific import regulations. For example, most vehicles older than eight years are heavily taxed or outright restricted. Left-hand drive cars are allowed, but age restrictions apply. You’ll also need to clear customs with the Kenya Revenue Authority and the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).

When I shipped my third car, I almost overlooked the age restriction. The car was seven years old, just under the threshold, but if it had been one year older, the taxes would have doubled. Doing the homework before purchase is essential.

Tip 8: Expect Delays and Have Patience

Shipping a car from the US to Kenya rarely goes exactly as planned. Weather delays, customs inspections, or minor paperwork issues can push delivery back by days—or sometimes weeks. It’s frustrating, but accepting this as part of the process makes it easier to deal with.

I remember sitting at a port café in Mombasa, waiting for my car to be released. Each hour felt like an eternity, but I kept in touch with my agent and reviewed all documents to ensure nothing had been missed. Eventually, the car arrived, and the relief was incredible. That experience taught me that patience and communication are just as important as money when shipping cars internationally.

Tip 9: Work with Experienced Freight Forwarders

Unless you have previous experience, hiring a reputable freight forwarder is probably the best decision you can make. They can guide you through documentation, filing, customs, and even shipping schedules. I learned this after trying to manage my first shipment solo—lots of emails, phone calls, and trips to the DMV later, I realized a professional could have saved me weeks of stress.

Ask for recommendations, check reviews, and verify that the agent has experience with shipments to Kenya specifically. Local knowledge matters because different ports and shipping lines have unique procedures.

Tip 10: Keep Copies of Everything

Lastly, always keep multiple copies—digital and physical—of every document: title, Bill of Sale, insurance, EEI form, customs clearance, and shipping receipts. Things can go missing, and having backups can prevent unnecessary delays.

When my second shipment arrived, a port officer asked for a document that my agent had misplaced. Luckily, I had scanned copies on my laptop, and the car was cleared immediately. Trust me, it’s a small step that can save a lot of stress.

Final Thoughts

Shipping a car from the US to Kenya as a first-time buyer may feel overwhelming, but it’s entirely manageable with preparation, patience, and attention to detail. The process is a mix of research, paperwork, and logistics, and while unexpected challenges may arise, each one is navigable with the right approach.

For me, each shipment has been a learning experience—from verifying titles and checking VIN histories to navigating customs and dealing with minor delays. It’s not just about getting a car; it’s about understanding the process, being proactive, and making informed decisions. The thrill of seeing a car you picked in the US arrive safely in Kenya makes all the effort worthwhile.

With these tips, first-time buyers can approach the process more confidently, avoid common mistakes, and hopefully enjoy the journey rather than get bogged down by it. Shipping cars internationally isn’t just about the destination—it’s about mastering the ride along the way.

Published on: Sep 08, 2025

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