How to Import Cars from the UK to Kenya (2026): Costs, Duty, Shipping & Delivery to Nairobi and Mombasa

If you want to import cars from the UK to Kenya, you are in good company. The UK is the top source for right-hand-drive Range Rovers, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi and Jaguar models. Moreover, British cars usually come with full service history and verifiable mileage. That makes them a smart choice for buyers in Nairobi, Mombasa and across Kenya.

However, a UK import involves more than buying a car online. You must meet the KEBS 8-year rule, pay KRA duty, ship to Mombasa and register with NTSA. This guide walks you through every step and every cost. Furthermore, it explains how Elisa Motors handles the whole process for you.

Why import a car from the UK to Kenya?

First, the UK drives on the left. As a result, every car is right-hand drive, which Kenya requires. Second, UK cars have MOT history that anyone can check online. That record shows mileage at every annual test, so tampering is easy to spot.

Third, the UK has the best supply of European premium cars. In fact, it is the home market for Land Rover and Jaguar. Similarly, UK-spec Mercedes, BMW and Audi models often come with higher trim levels than Japanese versions. See our import from UK page for every model we source.

Popular UK imports and landed prices in Kenya

These are indicative landed prices for 2019-or-newer cars, including shipping, duty, clearing and registration. Each row links to a full specs page.

Other strong UK choices include the Mercedes-Benz V-Class, the Jaguar F-Pace and the Volkswagen Golf. For Range Rover detail, read our Range Rover price guide.

The 8-year rule for UK car imports

KEBS only allows used cars less than eight years old from the year of first registration. In 2026, that means cars first registered in 2019 or later. Therefore, a car built in late 2018 but registered in 2019 may qualify. The opposite case can fail.

KRA and KEBS look closely at manufacture and registration dates on UK cars. For that reason, we check the V5C logbook and manufacturer build data before we buy. We never ship a car that risks rejection at Mombasa.

Left-hand-drive cars are not allowed for general use. Similarly, we do not import salvage or category-damaged cars from sites such as Copart. They often fail inspection and are hard to insure.

How much does it cost to import a car from the UK to Kenya?

Your total landed cost has five parts. Here they are in order.

Vehicle price in the UK

This is the dealer or auction price. Some UK dealers sell "VAT qualifying" cars. When exported correctly, VAT may be removed or refunded. That can cut the price noticeably. However, the rules are strict, so we handle the paperwork with the dealer.

Shipping and insurance to Mombasa

Freight depends on the car's size and the shipping method. Marine insurance covers loss or damage at sea. We include both in your quote.

KRA taxes

KRA charges import duty, excise duty, 16% VAT, the Import Declaration Fee and the Railway Development Levy. All of them are calculated from KRA's Current Retail Selling Price (CRSP) value, adjusted for age. In other words, KRA does not tax what you paid.

Port and clearing charges

These include KPA port charges, shipping line fees, the clearing agent's fee and any storage. Storage builds up fast if clearing is slow. Consequently, a prepared clearing agent saves you money.

Registration

Finally, NTSA registration, number plates and the logbook. Our car import guide explains each tax in more detail.

Our services: UK car imports across Kenya

Elisa Motors runs the full UK import for you. Here is what we do for buyers in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Eldoret and beyond.

1. UK car sourcing for Nairobi and Mombasa buyers

We search UK main dealers, approved-used programmes and trusted trade auctions. You tell us the make, model, year, colour and budget. Then we shortlist real cars that match.

Already found a car on a UK site? Send us the link. We will check it, quote the landed cost and advise honestly. For instance, a cheap car with patchy history is often not worth shipping.

2. UK history, MOT and mileage checks

Before buying, we run a full history check. It covers outstanding finance, write-off records and stolen markers. We also review MOT history for mileage and advisories.

Additionally, we check service records with the dealer where possible. As a result, you know the car's past before you pay. That matters a lot when you later sell in Nairobi.

3. Rust and underbody inspection for ex-UK cars

UK roads are salted in winter. Therefore, some cars develop corrosion underneath. We inspect the chassis, subframes and brake lines before purchase.

Every car then passes the KEBS-appointed roadworthiness inspection in the UK. Moreover, we share photos and video with you. You approve the car before it ships.

4. RoRo and container shipping from UK ports to Mombasa

Most cars travel by roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) from ports such as Southampton, Bristol or Tilbury. RoRo is usually the cheapest option. Transit to Mombasa takes about five to seven weeks.

Container shipping costs more, but adds protection. For example, it suits a G63 or a classic. Shared containers can also lower the cost. We quote both so you can choose.

5. KRA duty calculation and all-inclusive quotes

We calculate every KRA tax from the current CRSP schedule. Then we add freight, insurance, port and clearing fees and registration. You receive one figure in Kenya shillings.

We can also compare models. For instance, we can price a BMW X5 next to an Audi Q7. Likewise, we can compare diesel and petrol versions of the same car.

6. Mombasa port clearing and NTSA registration

Our clearing team lodges the entry, pays KRA and handles KPA release at Kilindini Harbour. Subsequently, the car passes physical verification and is released.

We then register the car with NTSA, fit plates and transfer the logbook to you. Clearing usually takes about a week. Meanwhile, you get WhatsApp updates throughout.

7. Delivery from Mombasa to your town

We deliver by covered car carrier to Nairobi, Kiambu, Thika, Machakos and Kajiado. We also deliver to Nakuru, Naivasha, Eldoret, Kitale, Kisumu, Kakamega and Kericho.

In central Kenya, we serve Nyeri, Nanyuki, Meru and Embu. On the coast, we serve Mombasa, Nyali, Kilifi, Malindi and Diani. Alternatively, you can collect at Mombasa.

Documents you need for a UK car import

Kenya's customs process needs a clear paper trail. The main documents are:

• The UK V5C logbook and export certificate
• The purchase invoice and bill of lading
• The KEBS roadworthiness inspection certificate
• Your KRA PIN and ID or passport

We prepare and track every document. As a result, your car is not held at the port for missing paperwork.

UK vs Japan: which is better for your import?

Choose the UK for European brands, higher specs and service history. In contrast, choose Japan for Toyota, Nissan, Mazda, Honda, Subaru and hybrids. Japanese cars are usually cheaper and ship slightly faster.

For a full comparison, read our Japan import guide. You can also browse cars from Japan and South Africa.

Common UK import mistakes to avoid

First, do not buy before checking the first registration date. A car that misses the 8-year rule cannot be cleared. Second, never send money to an unknown "exporter" without verification. Scam websites copy real dealer listings.

Third, do not ignore duty. A cheap UK price can still land expensive once KRA applies its CRSP value. Finally, avoid cars with gaps in MOT history. Those gaps often hide problems.

UK car import timeline: from order to keys

Here is a typical timeline for a UK import with Elisa Motors. In week one, we agree your spec and budget, then shortlist cars. Next, you approve a car and we complete history checks and the purchase.

In week two, the car goes for KEBS-appointed inspection and is delivered to the UK port. Then it sails to Mombasa, which takes about five to seven weeks. Finally, clearing and registration take about one more week. In total, most UK imports take seven to ten weeks.

Container shipments can take slightly longer. However, we update you on WhatsApp at every step, so you always know where your car is.

UK cars that suit Kenyan roads best

Not every UK car is a good fit for Kenya. Low-profile tyres and very low sports suspension can struggle with potholes and speed bumps. Therefore, we usually recommend SUVs and cars with sensible wheel sizes.

Diesel SUVs such as the Range Rover Sport, BMW X5 and Audi Q7 suit long highway trips. For town use, a Mercedes C-Class or VW Golf is comfortable and economical. Families and tour operators often choose the Mercedes V-Class.

Fuel quality is another point. Modern UK diesels need clean, low-sulphur diesel. Kenya's fuel standards have improved a lot. Still, we advise filling at major stations and keeping service intervals short.

Importing popular UK brands to Kenya

Land Rover and Range Rover. The UK is the natural source. Choice is huge, and dealer history is easy to verify. See our Land Rover range.

Mercedes-Benz. UK cars often come with AMG Line packs and full dealer servicing. For example, the C-Class, GLE and V-Class are strong UK buys. Browse our Mercedes-Benz range.

BMW and Audi. UK M Sport and S line cars carry high specs at fair prices. Similarly, diesel X5 and Q7 models suit long Kenyan trips. See our BMW and Audi pages.

Jaguar. The F-Pace and E-Pace are rare in Kenya, so a UK import is the best route. Moreover, you can choose the exact colour and options.

Ex-UK cars after arrival: first steps

When your car lands, plan a few simple steps. First, book a full service with fresh oil, filters and brake fluid. Second, check the tyres, because UK winter tyres are not ideal for Kenyan heat. Third, fit a tracker for insurance.

Some UK cars also benefit from underbody protection. For instance, an anti-rust coating helps if the car will live at the coast in Mombasa or Malindi. We can arrange all of this before delivery.

Returning residents and diplomats

Kenyans returning home after living abroad may qualify for a duty concession on one personal car. However, strict conditions apply, including how long you lived abroad and owned the car. Diplomats and some staff of international organisations have separate rules.

We can guide you through the process. Still, always confirm your eligibility with KRA before shipping.

Areas we serve for UK car imports

We serve buyers across Nairobi, including Westlands, Karen, Runda, Kilimani, Lavington, Kileleshwa, Upper Hill, South C, Syokimau and Kitengela. We also serve Nakuru, Eldoret, Kisumu, Thika, Nyeri, Nanyuki, Meru, Machakos, Kericho and Kitale.

At the coast, we serve Mombasa, Nyali, Bamburi, Diani and Malindi. The process and pricing are the same wherever you are.

Start your UK car import with Elisa Motors

Pick a car from our catalogue or SUV range, or use the order form on this page. We reply with options and a free, all-inclusive quote. For luxury SUVs, see our G-Wagon price guide too.

Prefer to talk? Call +254 725 310 112 or WhatsApp +254 725 310 112. You can also contact our team, read about Elisa Motors or send a detailed import request.

import cars from UK to Kenya: FAQs