Getting the UK car export documents for Kenya right is essential. Missing or incorrect paperwork causes delays at the UK port, at Mombasa and at NTSA registration. Moreover, documents prove the car's age, ownership and history. Therefore, every UK import needs a clear, complete paper trail.
This guide explains each document, from the V5C logbook to the bill of lading. It also covers history and MOT checks, VAT on export and what KRA checks at Mombasa. Furthermore, it explains how Elisa Motors prepares every document for you.
The V5C logbook
The V5C, often called the logbook, is the UK registration document. It shows the registered keeper, the vehicle details and the date of first registration. That date matters for Kenya's 8-year rule. Read our 8-year rule guide.
When a car is exported, the relevant section of the V5C is completed and the DVLA is notified. As a result, the car is removed from the UK register. The export process must be done correctly to avoid problems later.
Proof of export and export certificate
The exporter provides evidence that the car has left the UK, such as shipping documents. For Kenyan customs, the export documentation, together with the V5C details, proves the vehicle's identity and registration date.
Purchase invoice
The purchase invoice shows the seller, buyer, price and vehicle details. It is needed for shipping and customs. However, KRA calculates duty using its CRSP values, not the invoice price. Read our KRA duty guide.
Bill of lading
The bill of lading is issued by the shipping line. It confirms the car has been loaded and names the consignee in Kenya. The original or a telex release is needed to collect the car at Mombasa. Read our shipping guide.
Pre-shipment inspection certificate
Used vehicles exported to Kenya need a pre-shipment inspection certificate from the KEBS-appointed agent for the UK. The inspection checks roadworthiness, age and identity. Read our pre-shipment inspection guide.
History checks
A UK vehicle history check reveals outstanding finance, insurance write-off categories, theft markers, previous registrations and plate changes. Moreover, it confirms the car's identity matches its documents. Never buy without one.
Cars with outstanding finance may legally belong to a finance company. Similarly, write-off categories indicate past damage. Therefore, history checks protect your money.
MOT history
Cars over three years old in the UK need an annual MOT test. The MOT history is available online. It shows mileage at each test, failures and advisories. As a result, you can spot mileage inconsistencies and recurring problems.
Service history
Dealer service records show whether maintenance was done on time. Many premium cars have digital service records with the manufacturer. In addition, stamped service books and invoices help. Full service history adds value in Kenya.
VAT on UK car exports
Some UK dealer cars are "VAT qualifying". When exported correctly, the VAT element may be removed or refunded under UK export rules. This can reduce the purchase price significantly. However, the rules are strict, and the dealer must handle the export paperwork properly.
Private sellers and "VAT margin" cars do not qualify in the same way. Therefore, ask the dealer whether a car is VAT qualifying and how they handle export.
Documents needed in Kenya
At Mombasa, the clearing agent needs the bill of lading, invoice, export documents, inspection certificate and your KRA PIN and ID or passport. KRA lodges the customs entry, assesses duty and verifies the vehicle. Read our Mombasa clearing guide.
For NTSA registration, customs release documents and the vehicle details are used to issue the logbook. Read our NTSA registration guide.
Transit plates and moving the car to port
Once a car is sold for export, it may need to travel to the port. Depending on its status, it may use its existing registration or be transported on a truck. Your exporter arranges this properly. Moreover, insurance must cover the car until it is loaded.
Common document mistakes
First, mismatched names between the invoice, bill of lading and KRA PIN. Second, wrong chassis numbers on documents. Third, missing inspection certificates. Fourth, buying a car with outstanding finance. Finally, misunderstanding the first registration date. Each mistake causes delays or worse.
Our services: UK export paperwork handled
Elisa Motors handles UK paperwork for buyers in Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, Kisumu, Eldoret and beyond. Here is what we do.
1. History and MOT checks
We run full history and MOT checks before purchase. Cars with finance, write-offs or mileage issues are rejected.
You see every report.
2. Age verification
We confirm the first registration date on the V5C and build data. As a result, your car meets the 8-year rule.
No age surprises at Mombasa.
3. VAT and export handling
We work with dealers on VAT-qualifying exports. Moreover, we ensure the export paperwork is completed correctly.
That can lower your purchase price.
4. Inspection booking
We book the KEBS-appointed pre-shipment inspection in the UK. Similarly, we fix minor issues before inspection.
Cars usually pass first time.
5. Shipping documents
We arrange the bill of lading with your correct consignee details. Moreover, we check every name and number.
Consistency avoids delays.
6. Clearing and registration
We clear the car at Mombasa and register it with NTSA. You receive the logbook in your name.
Read our UK import guide.
7. Delivery across Kenya
We deliver to Nairobi, Nakuru, Eldoret, Kisumu, Nyeri, Nanyuki, Meru, Mombasa and Malindi.
Read our car transport guide.
Popular UK imports
Popular UK imports include the Range Rover Sport, Defender, Mercedes C-Class, BMW X5, Audi Q7 and VW Golf. Read our German cars from the UK guide and Range Rover from the UK guide.
Step by step: the UK paperwork journey
Here is how paperwork flows on a typical UK import. First, you choose a car and we run history and MOT checks. Next, the dealer issues a purchase invoice and confirms VAT status. Then the car goes for KEBS-appointed pre-shipment inspection, and the certificate is issued.
After that, the shipping line issues the bill of lading naming you or your company as consignee. Meanwhile, the export is recorded and the V5C process is completed. When the ship reaches Mombasa, the clearing agent lodges the customs entry with all documents. Finally, NTSA registration produces your Kenyan logbook. Read our full import guide.
Names and details must match
Customs systems compare names, PINs and vehicle numbers across documents. Therefore, the consignee on the bill of lading should match the KRA PIN holder. Similarly, the chassis number must be identical on the invoice, inspection certificate and bill of lading. Even a single wrong character can cause delays.
If you import through a company, use the company's details consistently. Moreover, if a relative will register the car, decide this before shipping, not after arrival.
Manufacture year vs registration year
The V5C shows the date of first registration. However, the car may have been built months earlier. KEBS and KRA can look at both. A car built in late 2018 and registered in 2019 may raise questions. Therefore, we check build data as well as the V5C before buying.
Private seller vs dealer documents
Dealers usually provide clean invoices, service records and export support. Private sellers may not understand export procedures. In addition, private sales carry more risk of hidden finance or disputes. As a result, we prefer dealer and trade sources for most clients.
Salvage and write-off cars
UK write-off categories, such as Category S or N, indicate past insurance write-offs. Some of these cars are repaired and sold. However, they often have hidden damage, lower resale value and may struggle with inspection or insurance in Kenya. Therefore, we do not import them for clients. Read our car import scams guide.
Keeping copies
Keep copies of every document: invoice, V5C details, history report, MOT history, inspection certificate, bill of lading and customs release. When you sell the car in Kenya, buyers increasingly ask for this file. Consequently, complete documents add value.
Example: BMW X5, a popular UK export to Kenya
Here is how each BMW X5 version we import compares. All of them seat 5, and you can import them from UK or Japan.
BMW X5 xDrive30d M Sport. This version uses a 3.0-litre diesel engine with 265 hp, a 8-speed automatic gearbox and AWD. In addition, it returns about 14 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 9.5M – 11.5M.
BMW X5 xDrive40i M Sport. This version uses a 3.0-litre petrol engine with 340 hp, a 8-speed automatic gearbox and AWD. Moreover, it returns about 11 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 10M – 12M.
BMW X5 xDrive45e Plug-in Hybrid. This version uses a 3.0-litre hybrid engine with 394 hp, a 8-speed automatic gearbox and AWD. As a result, it returns about 80 km EV range and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 10.5M – 12.5M.
Every BMW X5 we import includes these key features: xDrive AWD, air suspension option, plug-in hybrid option, live Cockpit and luxury SUV.
Example: Mercedes-Benz C-Class versions
Here is how each Mercedes-Benz C-Class version we import compares. All of them seat 5, and you can import them from UK or Japan.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class C200 EQ Boost. This version uses a 1.5-litre petrol engine with 184 hp, a 9-speed automatic gearbox and RWD. In addition, it returns about 15 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 4.2M – 4.9M.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class C220d. This version uses a 1.9-litre diesel engine with 194 hp, a 9-speed automatic gearbox and RWD. Moreover, it returns about 20 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 4.4M – 5.1M.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class C300 AMG Line. This version uses a 2.0-litre petrol engine with 258 hp, a 9-speed automatic gearbox and RWD. As a result, it returns about 14 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 5M – 5.8M.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class C200 (W206, 2022+). This version uses a 1.5-litre petrol engine with 204 hp, a 9-speed automatic gearbox and RWD. Similarly, it returns about 15 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 6M – 7M. Furthermore, compared with lower trims, it adds new generation: 11.9" portrait screen, digital cockpit, mild hybrid.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class C43 AMG 4MATIC. This version uses a 3.0-litre petrol engine with 390 hp, a 9-speed amg speedshift gearbox and AWD. Meanwhile, it returns about 10 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 7.5M – 8.8M. Furthermore, compared with lower trims, it adds AMG twin-turbo V6, AMG sports exhaust, adaptive damping.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class C63 S AMG. This version uses a 4.0-litre petrol engine with 510 hp, a 9-speed amg mct gearbox and RWD. Furthermore, it returns about 8 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 10M – 12M. Furthermore, compared with lower trims, it adds 4.0 V8 biturbo, AMG Performance seats, limited-slip diff.
Every Mercedes-Benz C-Class we import includes these key features: MBUX infotainment (2019+), AMG Line styling, petrol, diesel & AMG options, driver assistance package and luxury interior.
Returning residents and personal imports
Kenyans returning from the UK may bring a personal car. Documents and eligibility rules differ for duty concessions. Moreover, the car must still meet age and inspection rules. Read our returning residents guide.
Example: Land Rover Defender from the UK
Here is how each Land Rover Defender version we import compares. All of them seat 7, and you can import them from UK.
Land Rover Defender 110 D250 SE. This version uses a 3.0-litre diesel engine with 249 hp, a 8-speed automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive. In addition, it returns about 12 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 11M – 13M.
Land Rover Defender 110 P400 X. This version uses a 3.0-litre petrol engine with 400 hp, a 8-speed automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive. Moreover, it returns about 10 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 13M – 15M.
Land Rover Defender 90 D250 SE (3-door). This version uses a 3.0-litre diesel engine with 249 hp, a 8-speed automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive. As a result, it returns about 12 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 10.5M – 12.5M. Furthermore, compared with lower trims, it adds short wheelbase, 5-6 seats, air suspension, Terrain Response 2.
Land Rover Defender 130 D300 X-Dynamic (8-seat). This version uses a 3.0-litre diesel engine with 300 hp, a 8-speed automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive. Similarly, it returns about 11 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 14M – 16.5M. Furthermore, compared with lower trims, it adds long body, 8 seats, three rows.
Land Rover Defender 110 V8 5.0 Supercharged. This version uses a 5.0-litre petrol engine with 525 hp, a 8-speed automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive. Meanwhile, it returns about 7 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 18M – 22M. Furthermore, compared with lower trims, it adds V8 power, 22" wheels, quad exhausts.
Every Land Rover Defender we import includes these key features: monocoque off-roader, air suspension, 90, 110 & 130 bodies, terrain Response 2 and wade depth 900 mm.
Document checklist
Before shipping, confirm you have the purchase invoice, history report, MOT history printout, inspection certificate and booking confirmation. Moreover, confirm the bill of lading details match your KRA PIN. Finally, save digital copies in one folder. As a result, clearing at Mombasa goes smoothly.
Where we deliver
We serve buyers across Nairobi, including Westlands, Karen, Runda, Kilimani, Lavington and Upper Hill. We also serve Nakuru, Eldoret, Kisumu, Thika, Nyeri, Nanyuki, Machakos and Meru. At the coast, we serve Mombasa, Nyali, Kilifi and Malindi.
Start your UK import
Use the order form on this page, call +254 725 310 112 or WhatsApp +254 725 310 112. You can also browse cars from the UK.
