The desire to own a car someday is one that exists in everyone’s heart; even those who already have cars usually look into finding something better than what they have. Sometimes what they look for is the experience of another brand of car. Whichever your desire, the desire remains the same; ownership of a car. Owning a car can however be an expensive venture and that is why most people prefer to buy use cars in Kenya. Known as second hand vehicles, used cars does not mean they are in bad shape. Most used cars in Kenya, especially those that are always still in good shape and with frequent servicing and maintenance, it can serve the owner for a long time.

If you have decided to import your own used car, there are a few steps that you can follow to ensure that you push through with the process successfully. The following are some of the steps you can follow:

Step 1: Get a Dealer

It is difficult buying used cars in Kenya without a dealer. The first thing you need to do is find yourself trusted dealers who will help you get the car that you need. There are various car dealers in Kenya who can help you with the purchase process. You can also find trusted dealers online who you can deal with directly instead of going through a dealer in Kenya.

Step 2: Get Your Specifications Right

Once you have identified the dealer you want to do business with, you can now get the specifications that you want. Identify your specifications by the brand of the car, the type of engine, the year the car was manufactured and any other car feature that is important to you. It is important to know the year the car was manufactured because when it comes to importing used cars in Kenya, the law does not allow those that are over 8 years old.

Step 3: Create a Purchase Order

You are now free to begin any negotiations with the seller once you have done the above. A purchase order is a request that you send to a seller so that they can give you an invoice. An invoice shows you the amount of money you need to pay for the entire process. An invoice also gives a clear cost of the car as sometimes the prices posted on the website might not be the actual amounts.

Step 4: Accept the Sale Agreement Contract

After the seller has received your purchase order requesting an invoice, they will send it alongside a sale agreement contract. This agreement contract must be read, understood and duly signed by the buyer before it is sent back to the seller. The buyer is expected to attach a copy of the invoice and an amount of cash quoted by the seller. Also attached in the sale agreement contract is the details of the car in question.

Step 5: Wait for Shipment

Once you have done all the above payments, the seller will get your car ready for shipment and then notify you of the same. The seller will also tell you the duration that the car will take from where it is to Kenya. When you have met all the requirements, importing used cars in Kenya takes not more than 3 weeks. You need to give the seller shipping information that will act as proof that the car(s) being shipped belong to you.

Step 6: Get Clearance From Kenya Revenue Authority

The bill of lading or BL will be sent to you way before your vehicle arrives at the Kenyan port. This way, it will be easier for you to collect your car. Once the vehicle lands, seek clearance from KRA as this is a requirement before you can pick your vehicle. The clearance agent at KRA will process the clearance document on your behalf. All you need to do is pay the import declaration fee, VAT, import and excise duty before you are given the keys to your car.

Step 7: Conclusion

Once you get clearance form KRA, you can organize with the agent in charge to have it dropped wherever you are or you go and pick it personally. Whichever way you choose, you can now go ahead and enjoy used car(s) in Kenya.