Car Shipping to Mombasa

Shipping Your Vehicle to Mombasa with Ship Cars Ltd.

When it comes to exporting your vehicle from the UK to Mombasa, Kenya, Ship Cars Ltd. is your trusted partner. We offer comprehensive shipping solutions tailored to your needs, ensuring your car arrives safely and efficiently at its destination. This guide provides detailed information on our services, the necessary procedures, and what you can expect when shipping a vehicle to Mombasa.

Why People Choose to Ship Vehicles to Mombasa

Mombasa, as Kenya’s primary port city, serves as a crucial gateway for goods and vehicles entering the country. Several reasons drive individuals and businesses to ship vehicles to Mombasa:

• Importing for Personal Use: Many individuals moving to Kenya, returning residents, or those with family in the country choose to import a vehicle for personal convenience and mobility.

• Vehicle Resale and Trade: Kenya has a demand for various types of vehicles, and Mombasa is the hub for importing vehicles for resale within the country.

• Specific Vehicle Requirements: Certain models or types of vehicles might be more readily available or cost-effective to import from the UK rather than purchasing locally.

• Returning Expatriates: Many expatriates who previously lived in Kenya may choose to ship their familiar vehicles back home when they return.

Shipping Methods to Mombasa

Ship Cars Ltd. offers two primary methods for shipping your vehicle to Mombasa:

1. RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) Shipping

RoRo is a cost-effective method where your vehicle is driven onto and off the vessel. It’s ideal for operational vehicles.

• How it Works: Your car is driven onto a dedicated car carrier ship and secured in a designated parking bay. It remains on the vessel until it reaches Mombasa, where it is driven off.

• Cost: For a small car, RoRo shipping to Mombasa costs £1195. For larger vehicles like a Range Rover, the cost is £1265.

• Transit Time: The approximate transit time for RoRo shipping is 32 days.

• Sailing Frequency: Vessels depart approximately once a month.

Important Considerations for RoRo:

• Vehicle Condition: Your vehicle must be in a fully operational condition, capable of being driven onto and off the ship.

• Prohibited Items: No personal belongings or other items can be shipped inside the vehicle during RoRo transport. Only items firmly attached to the vehicle (like a spare tyre or tool kit) are permitted.

• Restrictions:

  • Hybrid vehicles are NOT permitted on RoRo services.

  • Electric vehicles are NOT permitted on RoRo services.

  • Certain high-value or classic cars might also have restrictions.

2. Container Shipping

Container shipping offers enhanced security and the flexibility to ship personal belongings alongside your vehicle. We offer dedicated container services.

• Dedicated Container: You have exclusive use of a 20-foot container for your vehicle and any accompanying goods.

Container Shipping Details:

• Dedicated 20ft Container: Prices available upon request.

• Vehicle Condition: Your vehicle does not need to be operational for container shipping (whether dedicated or shared).

• Restrictions:

  • Electric Vehicles: Electric vehicles are generally permitted in containers but are subject to a hazard surcharge. For electric vehicles, this surcharge is typically £295 for a dedicated container. This is due to the specific safety regulations for transporting high-voltage batteries.

• Transit Time: The approximate transit time for container shipping is also 32 days.

• Sailing Frequency: Departures are generally once a month.

For more information on container shipping, please visit our dedicated page: International Container Shipping

Documentation Required for Shipping

Proper documentation is crucial for a smooth shipping process, both in the UK and at the destination port in Mombasa.

UK Documentation:

1. Vehicle Registration Document (V5C): This is your proof of ownership in the UK. A copy is usually sufficient for the shipping company, but the original may be needed for export procedures.

2. Proof of Identity: A copy of your passport or driving license.

3. Bill of Sale (if applicable): If you have recently purchased the vehicle.

4. Completed Shipper’s Instruction Form: Provided by Ship Cars Ltd., detailing your shipment requirements.

5. Export Certificate (if applicable): In some cases, you may need an export certificate, especially if you are de-registering the vehicle in the UK. We can advise on this.

Destination Port (Mombasa, Kenya) Documentation:

Requirements in Kenya can be complex and vary based on the purpose of import (permanent export, transfer of residence, temporary import). It is essential to be fully compliant.

1. Bill of Lading: This is the legal document issued by the shipping company, acting as a receipt for the shipment and a contract of carriage. You will need the original Bill of Lading to clear your vehicle at the port.

2. Import Declaration Form (IDF): This is a mandatory pre-arrival declaration required by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS). It can be obtained online through the KenTrade portal.

   • Link: Kenya Trade Network Agency (KenTrade)

3. Certificate of Conformity (CoC): For vehicles imported into Kenya, a Certificate of Conformity from a KEBS-approved inspection body is typically required. This certifies that the vehicle meets Kenyan standards. Intertek is one such approved inspection agency.

   • Link: Intertek Kenya (You will need to navigate their site to find the relevant vehicle inspection services).

4. Proof of Ownership: Original V5C or equivalent documentation.

5. Proof of Residence/Purpose: Depending on the import type (see below), you may need proof of residency, employment, or purpose of import.

6. Import Duty and Tax Documentation: Proof of payment of applicable duties and taxes.

7. Letter of Request: A formal letter outlining the details of the vehicle and the reason for import.

Note: We strongly advise consulting with a local clearing agent in Mombasa to ensure all destination-specific requirements are met precisely.

Import Rules for Mombasa (Kenya)

Kenya has specific regulations for importing vehicles, categorised by purpose:

1. Permanent Export/Import

This is for individuals or entities intending to permanently own and use the vehicle in Kenya.

• Requirements:

  • The vehicle must generally not be older than 8 years from the year of first registration to be imported permanently. (This is a critical KEBS regulation).

  • A Certificate of Conformity (CoC) is mandatory.

  • The importer must be a resident of Kenya or have the necessary permits to reside and own a vehicle.

  • Payment of all applicable import duties, excise duty, VAT, and other taxes.

• Authority: The primary authority for standards is the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS). For customs and tax, it’s the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).

  • Link: Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA)

2. Transfer of Residence (ToR)

This scheme allows returning Kenyan citizens or individuals taking up permanent residence in Kenya to import one motor vehicle, including double-cab pick-ups, subject to certain conditions, often with duty concessions.

• Requirements:

  • The importer must be a returning Kenyan citizen or a person granted permanent residence.

  • The vehicle must have been owned and used by the importer in their country of previous residence for at least 12 months prior to the date of importation.

  • The vehicle must not be more than 8 years old from the year of first registration.

  • The ToR declaration must be made within 6 months of the importer’s arrival in Kenya.

  • A Certificate of Conformity (CoC) is still required.

• Authority: Managed by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).

3. Temporary Importation

This allows non-residents to import a vehicle for a limited period, usually for tourism or specific projects, without paying full import duties.

• Requirements:

  • The importer must be a non-resident visitor.

  • The vehicle is typically allowed for a period of up to 12 months, which can sometimes be extended.

  • A Temporary Importation Permit (TIP) is required, which can often be obtained from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) or the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA).

  • The vehicle must be re-exported at the end of the permitted period.

  • Prohibited Items: Importing goods (other than essential vehicle spares) within a temporarily imported vehicle is generally not allowed.

• Authority: Primarily Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and potentially the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) for port-specific clearance.

  • Link: Kenya Ports Authority (KPA)

Inspections and Permits

Several inspections and permits may be required before your vehicle can be cleared in Mombasa:

1. Pre-Export Inspection (UK): While not always mandatory for the UK side for our services, we offer a complimentary pre-shipment inspection if we collect your vehicle. This helps document its condition before loading, which is vital for insurance claims. A charge of £35 applies if you deliver the vehicle to us and require a condition report.

2. Pre-Arrival Inspection (Kenya):

   • Certificate of Conformity (CoC): As mentioned, this is mandatory and obtained from an approved inspection agency (like Intertek) in the country of export. It verifies that the vehicle meets Kenyan safety and environmental standards.

   • Import Declaration Form (IDF): This must be obtained via the KenTrade portal before the vessel arrives.

   • KEBS Inspection: Upon arrival, KEBS or its appointed agents may conduct physical inspections to ensure compliance with standards and confirm details against the CoC and IDF.

3. Customs Inspection (KRA): The Kenya Revenue Authority will conduct customs clearance. They may physically inspect the vehicle to verify its details, assess duties and taxes, and ensure it matches the declared information.

Where to Obtain:

• CoC: Through designated inspection bodies such as Intertek in the UK.

• IDF: Online via the KenTrade portal.

• Customs Clearance & Permits: Through a licensed Clearing Agent in Mombasa, who will liaise with KRA, KEBS, and KPA on your behalf.

Prohibited Items and Restrictions

To ensure a smooth shipping process and compliance with international and Kenyan regulations, certain items are prohibited or restricted:

• Flammable or Explosive Materials: No hazardous substances, including fuel (beyond a minimal amount for vận hành), explosives, or flammable liquids, are allowed inside or attached to the vehicle.

• Illegal Substances/Goods: Any items that are illegal in the UK or Kenya are strictly forbidden.

• Weapons and Ammunition: Transport of firearms or ammunition is highly regulated and generally prohibited without specific permits.

• Live Animals: Cannot be shipped within vehicles.

• Perishables: Foodstuffs and other perishable items are generally not permitted, especially in RoRo.

• Excessive Personal Belongings: For RoRo, no personal items are allowed. For containers, while allowed, be mindful of customs regulations in Kenya regarding importing commercial goods disguised as personal effects.

• Vehicles Not Meeting Age Requirements: Vehicles older than 8 years cannot be permanently imported into Kenya.

• Restricted Vehicle Types: As mentioned, hybrid vehicles are not allowed on RoRo. Electric vehicles are also restricted from RoRo.

Preparing Your Car for Shipping

Proper preparation is key to a successful international car shipping experience. For detailed guidance, please refer to our articles:

• How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping
• Preparing Your Car for Export

Key preparation steps include:

• Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the exterior and interior of your vehicle. Pay special attention to the undercarriage to remove any soil, mud, or debris that could violate customs regulations or attract pests. We offer a cleaning service at a charge of £35 if you deliver the vehicle to us, and it’s complimentary if we collect your vehicle and perform a condition report.

• Defueling: Remove most of the fuel. Leave just enough for the vehicle to be driven onto the ship (approximately a quarter tank).

• Removing Personal Items: Except for essential documents and perhaps a basic tool kit or spare tyre (for RoRo, nothing else is allowed).

• Checking Fluids: Ensure all fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid) are at appropriate levels.

• Securing Loose Parts: Anything that could detach during transit should be secured or removed.

• Tyre Pressure: Ensure tyres are properly inflated.

• Battery Check: Ensure the battery is in good condition and terminals are secure.

Insurance and Risk Coverage

Protecting your investment during international transit is vital. Ship Cars Ltd. offers comprehensive insurance options:

• Total Loss Cover (Fire/Water Damage): This insurance covers your vehicle in the event of a total loss due to fire or water damage. The cost is 1% of the vehicle’s value plus the shipping cost.

• Comprehensive Cover: For a higher level of protection, costing 1.5% of the vehicle’s value plus the shipping cost, this cover extends to include cosmetic damage (scratches, dents) in addition to total loss.

  • Condition: This comprehensive cover is typically available for vehicles no older than 10 years.

  • Condition Report: A condition report is mandatory for comprehensive cover. This report details the vehicle’s condition before shipping.

    • Free Report: If Ship Cars Ltd. collects your vehicle, the condition report is provided free of charge.

    • £35 Charge: If you deliver the vehicle to us, a charge of £35 will apply for the condition report.

Shipping Costs Breakdown

The price you pay for shipping your vehicle is influenced by several factors:

1. Shipping Method: RoRo is generally more economical than container shipping. Containers offer a balance, while dedicated containers provide maximum flexibility but at a higher cost.

2. Vehicle Size: Larger vehicles (like SUVs or Range Rovers) take up more space and therefore cost more than smaller cars, regardless of the method.

3. Port Fees (UK & Mombasa): These include terminal handling charges, documentation fees, and other operational costs at both the UK port of departure and the Mombasa port of arrival.

4. Insurance: The cost of insurance is calculated as a percentage of the vehicle’s value plus the shipping cost.

5. Cleaning: If required or requested, cleaning services add to the cost.

6. Documentation: Fees associated with preparing and processing necessary shipping and customs documents.

7. Collection/Delivery: If you opt for our collection service via transporter or trade plate driver, this cost is factored in. (Note: For transporter or trade plate collection, the vehicle must be operational and have a valid MOT. Trade plate drivers can only operate if the vehicle has a valid MOT).

8. Surcharges: Specific surcharges, such as the hazard surcharge for electric vehicles in containers.

Our Prices at a Glance:

• RoRo Shipping (Standard Car): £1195

• RoRo Shipping (Large Car like Range Rover): £1265

• Electric Vehicle Hazard Surcharge (Container): £295

• Insurance (Total Loss): 1% of vehicle value + shipping cost

• Insurance (Comprehensive): 1.5% of vehicle value + shipping cost

• Condition Report (if delivering to us): £35

• Cleaning Service (if delivering to us): £35

Transit Time and Sailing Frequency

• Transit Time: Approximately 32 days from UK port to Mombasa.

• Sailing Frequency: Vessels depart for Mombasa roughly once a month. Early booking is highly recommended to secure your space.

Container Shipping Link

For detailed information on our container shipping services, please visit: International Container Shipping

Additional Resources

To ensure you have all the information you need for a smooth international car shipping experience, we recommend reviewing these helpful articles:

• 10 Mistakes People Make During International Car Shipping
• Avoiding Damage with International Shipping

Ship Cars Ltd. is committed to providing a transparent and reliable service for shipping your vehicle to Mombasa. Contact us today to discuss your specific requirements and get a personalised quote.

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