Buying the car is exciting. Getting it safely from the seller to your driveway takes a few more checks.
Here is what to confirm at each stage.
1. Check the car before you pay
A Visual Guide of a Japanese Auction Sheet
Ask for the auction sheet or vehicle inspection report. Check the mileage, condition notes, chassis details and any recorded repairs. Confirm that the vehicle meets Kenya’s import requirements before committing to it.
Your check: Does the vehicle in the documents match the vehicle you agreed to buy?
2. Know the full cost before shipping
An Illustration of the scene of a Vehicle ready for export or car carrier
The purchase price is only one part of the cost. Ask for an estimate that also covers shipping, applicable taxes, port clearance, registration and delivery.
For used vehicles, KRA’s customs valuation may differ from the price paid to the seller. Get an estimate for the specific vehicle, rather than relying on a general figure for that model.
Your check: Do you have a written breakdown of what is included and what you will pay separately?
3. Keep the shipping documents together
An Illustration of the scene of a Ship or vehicle at the port
Before the vehicle arrives, confirm that the required documents are available and that their vehicle and owner details agree. These commonly include the purchase invoice, export documents, Bill of Lading and Certificate of Roadworthiness.
Share the documents with your clearing agent early so they can identify missing details before the vehicle reaches Mombasa.
Your check: Are the chassis number and consignee details consistent across the documents?
4. Follow the clearance process
Clearance
At the port, your licensed clearing agent handles the customs declaration and coordinates the required checks, payments and release steps. Ask for a clear update on the vehicle’s status and copies of the relevant payment and clearance records.
Your check: Has the vehicle been released through the proper process before delivery is arranged?
5. Inspect the car at handover
Real Seaways client vehicle at handover
Once the car is cleared, arrange suitable cover and transport. At delivery, compare the car with its purchase and inspection records. Check its exterior, interior, keys and documents before signing off.
Your check: Is the car in the condition you expected, and have you received the documents you need?
From port to driveway, with Seaways
Seaways helps clients coordinate vehicle sourcing, shipping, customs clearance and delivery. If you have already found a car, send us its listing or auction sheet so we can review the details and guide you through the next steps.
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