Importing Commercial Vehicles from Japan to Kenya (2026): Vans, Minibuses, Box Bodies and Light Trucks

Kenyan businesses run on Japanese commercial vehicles. When you import commercial vehicles from Japan to Kenya, you get tough, reliable vans, minibuses and trucks with parts available in every town. From Probox delivery vans in Nairobi to Isuzu Elf trucks in Eldoret, these vehicles keep goods and people moving.

However, commercial imports have their own rules. Duty treatment, age limits, body conversions and licensing can differ from private cars. Therefore, this guide explains what businesses need to know before importing. Moreover, it lists popular models with landed prices.

Finally, it shows how Elisa Motors helps businesses, schools, churches and transport operators import commercial vehicles with one fixed price.

Popular commercial vehicles landed in Kenya (2026)

These indicative landed prices include shipping, KRA duty, clearing and registration for 2019-or-newer units.

Vans and minibuses

Toyota Probox

The Probox is Kenya's business workhorse. It lands from about KES 1.3M. It carries goods all day and rarely breaks down. Moreover, its hybrid version cuts fuel costs for delivery businesses.

Toyota Hiace

The Hiace is the backbone of Kenyan tours, schools, churches and shuttles. The Hiace GL 2.8 diesel lands at about KES 4.2M – 4.8M. It can be configured as a panel van or a passenger van.

Nissan NV350 Caravan

The NV350 Caravan is a strong alternative to the Hiace, from about KES 2.4M. It is spacious and comfortable. However, Toyota resale value is usually stronger.

Toyota Coaster

The Coaster is a larger bus for schools, churches and tour operators. It lands from about KES 9M. Consequently, it suits groups too large for a Hiace.

Light trucks

Isuzu Elf

The Isuzu Elf lands from about KES 3.4M. It is a popular light truck for distribution, farming and construction. Moreover, Isuzu parts and service are widely available in Kenya.

Mitsubishi Fuso Canter

The Fuso Canter lands from about KES 3.8M. It is a tough, efficient light truck. In addition, it is available in standard and wide-cab versions.

Toyota Dyna

The Toyota Dyna lands from about KES 3.6M. It offers Toyota reliability in a light truck.

Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter

The Fuso Fighter is a medium truck for heavier loads, from about KES 8.5M. It suits transporters and agribusinesses.

Toyota Hiace specifications by version

Here is how each Toyota Hiace version we import compares. All of them seat 10, and you can import them from Japan.

Toyota Hiace DX 2.0 Petrol. This version uses a 2.0-litre petrol engine with 136 hp, a 6-speed automatic gearbox and two-wheel drive. In addition, it returns about 10 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 3.6M – 4.1M.

Toyota Hiace GL 2.8 Diesel. This version uses a 2.8-litre diesel engine with 151 hp, a 6-speed automatic gearbox and two-wheel drive. Moreover, it returns about 11 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 4.2M – 4.8M.

Toyota Hiace Super GL 2.8 Diesel. This version uses a 2.8-litre diesel engine with 151 hp, a 6-speed automatic gearbox and two-wheel drive. As a result, it returns about 11 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 4.5M – 5.2M.

Every Toyota Hiace we import includes these key features: seats up to 10–14, diesel or petrol, high roof options, commercial durability and ideal for tours & matatu.

Isuzu Elf specifications by version

Here is how each Isuzu Elf version we import compares. All of them seat 3, and you can import them from Japan.

Isuzu Elf 3.0 Diesel 2-Ton. This version uses a 3.0-litre diesel engine with 150 hp, a 6-speed manual gearbox and two-wheel drive. In addition, it returns about 10 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 3.4M – 4.1M.

Isuzu Elf 3.0 Diesel 3-Ton Wide Cab. This version uses a 3.0-litre diesel engine with 150 hp, a 6-speed manual gearbox and two-wheel drive. Moreover, it returns about 9 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 4M – 4.8M.

Every Isuzu Elf we import includes these key features: 2–3 ton payload, 3.0 diesel, NKR/NPR family, durable and low running costs.

Mitsubishi Fuso Canter specifications by version

Here is how each Mitsubishi Fuso Canter version we import compares. All of them seat 3, and you can import them from Japan.

Mitsubishi Fuso Canter 3.0 Diesel 3-Ton Standard Cab. This version uses a 3.0-litre diesel engine with 150 hp, a 5-speed manual gearbox and two-wheel drive. In addition, it returns about 9 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 3.8M – 4.5M.

Mitsubishi Fuso Canter 3.0 Diesel 4-Ton Wide Cab. This version uses a 3.0-litre diesel engine with 175 hp, a 5-speed manual gearbox and two-wheel drive. Moreover, it returns about 8 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 4.5M – 5.2M.

Every Mitsubishi Fuso Canter we import includes these key features: 3–4 ton payload, 3.0 diesel, wide cab option, durable and business workhorse.

Duty on commercial vehicles

KRA classifies vehicles by type, such as passenger cars, goods vehicles and buses. Duty rates and excise can differ by class. Similarly, the CRSP value and age adjustments apply. Therefore, the correct classification matters. Read our KRA duty guide.

Some older commercial vehicles may face extra charges or restrictions. Rules change, so confirm the current position before buying. We include the correct duty in every quote.

Age rules for commercial vehicles

The KEBS 8-year rule applies to most used vehicles, including vans and light trucks. In 2026, that generally means vehicles first registered in 2019 or later. However, some specialised vehicles may have different rules. Read our 8-year rule guide.

Body types: box body, tipper, flatbed and more

Japanese light trucks come with many bodies: flatbeds, box bodies, refrigerated boxes, tippers and cranes. You can import a truck with the body you need. Alternatively, import a cab-chassis and build a body locally. Moreover, local body builders in Nairobi, Thika and Mombasa offer many designs.

Licensing and NTSA requirements

Commercial vehicles may need commercial registration, inspection and licences depending on use. Passenger service vehicles, such as matatus and tour vans, need PSV licensing and specific features. Therefore, check NTSA requirements before you convert or operate. Read our NTSA registration guide.

Our services: commercial vehicle imports

Elisa Motors serves businesses in Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, Kisumu, Eldoret and beyond. Here is what we do.

1. Fleet sourcing

We source single vehicles or fleets with matching specs. As a result, your parts, training and servicing stay simple.

Japanese auctions offer many similar units each week.

2. Correct classification and duty

We confirm the correct KRA classification and calculate duty accurately. Moreover, we include every cost in your quote.

No surprises at the port.

3. Condition and mileage checks

Commercial vehicles work hard. Therefore, we check auction sheets, mileage and underbody condition carefully. Read our mileage check guide.

Worn-out units are rejected.

4. Inspection and shipping

Every vehicle passes the KEBS-appointed inspection. Read our QISJ inspection guide. Then we ship by RoRo.

Read our shipping guide.

5. Clearing and registration

We clear vehicles at Mombasa and register them with NTSA. Read our Mombasa clearing guide.

Logbooks are issued in your company's name.

6. Body building and conversion advice

We recommend local body builders and converters. Moreover, we advise on PSV and commercial requirements.

Plan conversions before the vehicle arrives.

7. Delivery and finance

We deliver to Nairobi, Thika, Machakos, Nakuru, Eldoret, Kitale, Kisumu, Kericho, Nyeri, Meru, Mombasa and Malindi. In addition, we provide documents for asset finance.

Read our car finance guide.

Toyota Probox specifications by version

Here is how each Toyota Probox version we import compares. All of them seat 5, and you can import them from Japan.

Toyota Probox DX 1.5. This version uses a 1.5-litre petrol engine with 109 hp, a cvt automatic gearbox and two-wheel drive. In addition, it returns about 18 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 1.3M – 1.55M.

Toyota Probox GL 1.5. This version uses a 1.5-litre petrol engine with 109 hp, a cvt automatic gearbox and two-wheel drive. Moreover, it returns about 18 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 1.4M – 1.65M.

Toyota Probox Hybrid F 1.5. This version uses a 1.5-litre hybrid engine with 100 hp, a e-cvt automatic gearbox and two-wheel drive. As a result, it returns about 27 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 1.7M – 1.95M.

Every Toyota Probox we import includes these key features: heavy-duty load floor, 400 kg payload, simple & durable mechanicals, low running costs, hybrid option (2018+) and proven business workhorse.

Nissan NV350 Caravan specifications by version

Here is how each Nissan NV350 Caravan version we import compares. All of them seat 10, and you can import them from Japan.

Nissan NV350 Caravan DX 2.0 Petrol. This version uses a 2.0-litre petrol engine with 130 hp, a 5-speed automatic gearbox and two-wheel drive. In addition, it returns about 11 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 2.4M – 2.8M.

Nissan NV350 Caravan Premium GX 2.5 Diesel. This version uses a 2.5-litre diesel engine with 129 hp, a 5-speed automatic gearbox and two-wheel drive. Moreover, it returns about 11 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 3M – 3.5M.

Every Nissan NV350 Caravan we import includes these key features: large cargo or 10 seats, diesel or petrol, durable, high-roof options and hiace alternative.

Choosing the right vehicle for your business

First, define the job. For example, a courier business in Nairobi needs a small, economical van like the Probox. In contrast, a school transporting forty pupils needs a Coaster or two Hiaces. Similarly, a farm supplying produce to Marikiti market needs a light truck with the right body.

Second, consider fuel. Diesel suits heavy loads and long distances. Meanwhile, petrol or hybrid suits short urban routes. Third, think about resale. Toyota and Isuzu commercial vehicles hold their value best in Kenya. As a result, they reduce your long-term cost.

Fleet economics

Businesses should calculate cost per kilometre, not just purchase price. Include fuel, servicing, tyres, insurance, licences and downtime. Moreover, standardising on one model reduces spare parts stock and training costs. Consequently, many fleets choose Toyota or Isuzu across the board.

Track each vehicle's fuel use and repair history. A sudden rise in costs often signals a problem early. In addition, schedule servicing to avoid vehicles breaking down during busy periods.

Common mistakes when importing commercial vehicles

First, buying a worn-out ex-fleet vehicle because it looks cheap. Second, choosing the wrong body type and paying for conversion later. Third, ignoring licensing requirements for passenger or goods use. Finally, misclassifying the vehicle for duty, which leads to delays and penalties. Read our car import scams guide.

Commercial vehicles for schools, churches and tours

Schools and churches often need reliable minibuses. The Hiace and Coaster are the most popular choices. Moreover, both have strong parts networks and good resale. However, passenger vehicles need the right seating, seat belts and licensing. Therefore, confirm NTSA and county requirements before conversion.

Tour operators often fit pop-up roofs to Hiaces for game drives in Amboseli, Tsavo and the Mara. Similarly, they add extra fuel capacity and charging points. In addition, many choose the diesel for its torque and range.

Toyota Coaster specifications by version

Here is how each Toyota Coaster version we import compares. All of them seat 29, and you can import them from Japan.

Toyota Coaster GX 4.0 Diesel 29-Seater. This version uses a 4.0-litre diesel engine with 150 hp, a 5-speed manual gearbox and two-wheel drive. In addition, it returns about 7 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 9M – 11M. Furthermore, compared with lower trims, it adds 29 seats, high roof option.

Toyota Coaster EX 4.0 Diesel Automatic. This version uses a 4.0-litre diesel engine with 150 hp, a 6-speed automatic gearbox and two-wheel drive. Moreover, it returns about 7 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 10M – 12M. Furthermore, compared with lower trims, it adds automatic door, air conditioning, reclining seats.

Every Toyota Coaster we import includes these key features: 29 seats, 4.0 diesel, automatic door, high-roof option and most trusted minibus in Africa.

Where we deliver

We serve businesses across Nairobi, including Industrial Area, Embakasi, Mlolongo, Ruiru and Kiambu Road. We also serve Thika, Machakos, Nakuru, Eldoret, Kisumu, Kericho, Nyeri, Meru and Kitale. At the coast, we serve Mombasa, Changamwe, Kilifi and Malindi.

Order your vehicles

Use the order form on this page, call +254 725 310 112 or WhatsApp +254 725 310 112. You can also browse vans, light trucks and buses.

import commercial vehicles from Japan to Kenya: FAQs