🚗 Top 10 Mistakes Kenyans Make When Importing Cars (And How to Avoid Them)

“Don’t lose money, time, or your dream car — learn the most common pitfalls in the car importation process and how to stay smart in 2025.”

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✅ Article Structure (2000-word plan):

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1. Importing Without Checking Year Restrictions

KRA only allows vehicles up to 8 years old from the current year (2025 → cars from 2017 onward).

Mistake: Someone buys a 2016 car abroad and it's rejected at the port.

Tip: Always verify the manufacturing year (not just registration year).

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2. Underestimating KRA Taxes

Import taxes can almost double your CIF cost.

Mistake: Buyer budgets KSh 1.2M, but final costs are KSh 2.3M.

Tip: Use a duty calculator or consult Code & Clutch before paying for the car abroad.

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3. Using Unverified or Fake Clearing Agents

Mistake: Paying someone at the port who vanishes after taking your cash.

Tip: Only use licensed clearing agents — Code & Clutch verifies agents for you.

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4. Failing to Get the Right Car Inspection Certificate

All imports must be JEVIC (Japan), QISJ (UK/UAE) certified.

Mistake: Shipping a car without inspection → forced to re-export or pay huge fines.

Tip: Always confirm with your exporter before shipment.

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5. Ignoring Hidden Costs (Port Fees, NTSA, Registration)

Mistake: Focusing only on shipping + duty, forgetting about:

• Port storage fees

• NTSA registration

• Logbook charges

Tip: Have a full breakdown of all costs upfront.

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6. Delaying Clearance After Car Arrival

Every extra day at port costs you money.

Mistake: Waiting weeks to clear due to lack of funds or documents.

Tip: Prepare all paperwork and payment early — or use Code & Clutch's clearance team.

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7. Choosing Cars with Expensive Spare Parts

Some European models are affordable to import but costly to maintain.

Mistake: Buying a cheap BMW, then struggling to find affordable parts.

Tip: Consider long-term ownership costs before importing.

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8. Importing Cars With High Engine Capacity

Cars over 2000cc attract higher excise duty.

Mistake: Choosing a 2.4L engine and ending up with a KSh 1M tax bill.

Tip: Stay below 1500cc if you want lower taxes and better resale.

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9. Trusting Overseas Sellers Blindly

Mistake: Sending money to a “friend’s exporter” without verifying reputation.

Tip: Work with trusted, reviewed car exporters. Ask for past client references.

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10. Failing to Plan the End-to-End Process

Importing is more than just buying — it’s buying + shipping + clearance + registration.

Mistake: Not budgeting for delays, clearance issues, or tax changes.

Tip: Let Code & Clutch handle the entire workflow for you with expert support.

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🔚 Final Thoughts:

“A car import is a big investment. Make it smooth by avoiding these mistakes. Knowledge saves money.”

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🛠️ Tools Mentioned:

• Code & Clutch Car Tax Calculator

• WhatsApp Import Assistant (0717423659)

• Pesapal Payment Option (after quote generation)