Frequent Asked Question about Shipping Used Cars from Japan to Kenya.

Shipping cost while importing Used Cars direct from Japan to Kenya depends on the following factors.
1- M3 sizes: M3 size is a cubic volume of the vehicle. It is calculated in cubic meter by multiplying vehicle’s lenght, width and height. Every vehicle has different M3 size which affect the shipping cost. More the M3 size more will be the shipping cost.
Check our blog post on M3 size calculation for more details.
2- Freight Rates: Freight Rates are the prices that shipping companies charge to transport cars from port of loading in Japan to Mombasa port in Kenya. Freight charges can be Fix, Per M3 Or based on the vehicle height. Freight rates are subject to changes frequently based on several factors. So take the final rates
3- Shipping Cost: If the Frieght rate is Fix then the Shipping cost is same as the Freight rate.
If the Freight rate is Per M3, then the shipping cost is calculated as Vehicle M3 Size X Freight Rate.
If the Freight rate is based on Height; then per M3 freight rate is taken based on vehicle height and multiplied by M3 size of vehicle.
Check our blog post on Freight calculation for more details.
Keep in mind that the containers rates are fixed based on the size of the containers e.g for 20ft container the charges are 3,000 US$. When negotiating with the dealer you can ask about the overall shipping cost you have to pay for importing your used cars from Japan to Kenya.

The time it takes to import a used car from Japan to Kenya can vary depending on a number of factors, including the port of entry, the shipping company, and the mode of shipment.
If you are using RoRo shipping mode then it will take on average of 24 to 34 days. This time can increase if the weather is not good.
You can ask directly with your seller about your shipping arrangements. Typically, the seller’s logistics team communicates shipping details within two weeks after confirmation.

Ans 3. Before your car is shipped from Japan to Kenya, a comprehensive inspection process carried out to ensure its condition. Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has authorised QISJ (Quality Inspection Services Japan) company for the inspections done on used cars which are imported in Kenya. They have a network of inspectors worldwide who can inspect cars at the point of origin, in transit, or at the destination i.e in Kenya.
In Kenya, QISJ is involved in importing Japanese cars in the following ways:
Pre-shipment inspection: QISJ can inspect Japanese cars before they are shipped to Kenya to ensure that they meet the quality and compliance requirements of the Kenyan government. This can help to prevent the importation of substandard or unsafe cars.
In-transit inspection: QISJ can inspect Japanese cars while they are in transit to Kenya to ensure that they are not damaged. This can help to protect the interests of the importer.
Post-shipment inspection: QISJ can inspect Japanese cars after they have arrived in Kenya to ensure that they meet the quality and compliance requirements of the Kenyan government. This can help to protect the interests of the Kenyan consumers.
QISJ’s inspection services can help to ensure that Japanese cars imported into Kenya are of high quality and safe to drive.

Are you worried about your used car during shipment from Japan to Kenya and Looking for Insurance for the safety of the car? Then worry not. You need to ask from you Japan used car dealer about the trade term to be CIF and you need a marine insurance.
Your car’s marine insurance is included in CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight) from Japan port to Mombasa port in Kenya. 
Keep in mind that this is a Marin Insurance which means that your insurance is applicable only during shipment i.e on water e.g if ship shank then this insurance will be valid.

The most economical shipping method for importing used cars from Japan to Kenya varies based on factors like destination, vehicle type, and preferences. Two commonly chosen cost-effective options include:
1. Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) Shipping: Shipping companyes drive vehicles onto ship’s decks and secure. This approach is more cost-effective due to the absence of containerization costs. although it offers less weather protection.
2. Shared Container Shipping: Economical for multiple vehicles so they share container costs and provide better protection than RoRo.
While cost matters, safety, weather protection, and customs ease are important. Reputable exporting partners and assessing your situation will guide the choice of the suitable, budget-friendly shipping method.
For More details about the container shipment check our blog on Container Shipment method

CFS Code or Terminal information is an important information. Expoters ask the CFS while arranging for the shipment of your used cars from Japan to Mombasa port. You can ask your custom clearing agent about this information and share it with the seller. The terminal depends on your location and the agent will let you know the nearest terminal.