When you decide to import a vehicle directly from Japanese auctions, the first question you will ask is: 'How long will it take?' While some brokers promise unrealistic 30-day deliveries, the physical reality of maritime shipping, customs audits, and port logistics means a successful import takes roughly 60 days. Managing your expectations and knowing exactly where your vehicle is on its journey is key to a stress-free experience. Here is the definitive timeline of importing a vehicle from Japan to Nairobi.

Phase 1: Sourcing and Export Processing (Days 1 to 10)

The journey begins once we win the vehicle at auction (e.g., USS Tokyo or USS Yokohama) or purchase it from an export partner yard.

• ◆Day 1: Bidding and Auction Win. The vehicle is secured, and the Proforma Invoice (CIF) is generated.
• ◆Days 2-4: Bank Payment Clearance. Telegraphic Transfer (TT) is processed from Nairobi to the Japanese exporter's bank in Tokyo.
• ◆Days 5-7: Inland Transport in Japan. The vehicle is transported via flatbed from the auction yard to the designated export port (Yokohama, Nagoya, or Kobe).
• ◆Days 8-10: KEBS QISJ Inspection. The vehicle undergoes the mandatory Pre-Export Roadworthiness Inspection by Quality Inspection Services Japan (QISJ) to certify mechanical compliance and verify mileage.

Phase 2: Ocean Freight (Days 11 to 42)

This is the longest phase, during which your vehicle traverses the Indian Ocean aboard a specialized Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo) vessel.

• ◆Days 11-15: Booking and Customs Clearance in Japan. Export documents are filed with Japanese customs, and the vehicle is loaded onto the vessel.
• ◆Days 16-42: Ocean Transit. The vessel sails from Japan, stops at Singapore or Sri Lanka for bunkering, and proceeds to the East African coast. Transit time from Yokohama to Mombasa averages 24 to 28 days.

Phase 3: Mombasa Port Clearance & Transport (Days 43 to 55)

Once the ship berths at the Port of Mombasa, the clearing and tax processes begin.

• ◆Days 43-45: Manifest Upload & IDF Processing. The ship manifests are uploaded, and KRA registers the Import Declaration Fee (IDF) file.
• ◆Days 46-50: KRA Duty Entry & Assessment. Our clearing agent submits the custom entry. KRA evaluates the vehicle against the CRSP database, and we pay the customs duties.
• ◆Days 51-53: Physical Inspection & Port Release. Customs officers verify the chassis number. The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) releases the vehicle after port storage levies are settled.
• ◆Days 54-55: Transport to Nairobi. The vehicle is loaded onto an enclosed car carrier truck or driven by a professional driver to our Nairobi showroom on Gitanga Road.

Phase 4: Registration & Detailing (Days 56 to 60)

The final steps ensure your vehicle is legally roadworthy and presented in pristine condition.

• ◆Days 56-57: NTSA eCitizen Registration. The vehicle is registered, third-party plates (K-series) are issued, and the digital smart logbook is generated.
• ◆Days 58-60: Showroom Detailing & Handover. The vehicle undergoes a multi-stage paint polish, engine bay steam cleaning, interior detailing, and is handed over to you with all original documentation.