Vehicle Import Cost Calculator
Enter your vehicle details below to get an estimated breakdown of all costs involved in importing a car to Kenya.
Understanding KRA's CRSP System
What is CRSP?
CRSP stands for Current Retail Selling Price. It is an extensive database maintained by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) that acts as the baseline valuation for calculating taxes on imported vehicles. Rather than relying solely on the invoice you received from an overseas seller, KRA uses the CRSP to ensure standard, fair valuations across the board and to prevent under-declaration.
How is the Value Determined?
When you calculate importing a used car, KRA does not charge you taxes based on the full "brand new" CRSP value. Instead, they apply a Depreciation Schedule based on the age of the vehicle.
- Up to 1 yr: 5% Depreciation
- 1 - 2 yrs: 15% Depreciation
- 2 - 3 yrs: 20% Depreciation
- 3 - 4 yrs: 30% Depreciation
- 4 - 5 yrs: 40% Depreciation
- 5 - 6 yrs: 50% Depreciation
- 6 - 7 yrs: 60% Depreciation
- 7 - 8 yrs: 70% Depreciation
How is the CRSP Database Updated?
The CRSP values are periodically reviewed and updated by KRA in consultation with local motor vehicle franchise holders and dealers. These updates reflect global market trends, manufacturing changes, and shifts in exchange rates. As models receive facelifts or hybrid integrations, their baseline CRSP may adjust. Our database uses the latest KRA scheduled values to ensure your duty estimates are as accurate as possible.
How KRA Taxes Are Calculated
The total cost of importing a vehicle to Kenya is determined by several factors including the vehicle's FOB (Free on Board) value, shipping cost, insurance, and the various duties and taxes imposed by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA). Look below to see the exact formula break-down:
CIF Value (Cost, Insurance, and Freight)
The CIF value is the foundation for all duty calculations. It combines the vehicle's purchase price (FOB value), shipping cost to Mombasa port, and marine insurance. KRA may also apply the Current Retail Selling Price (CRSP) as a minimum valuation benchmark.
Import Duty (35%)
Import duty is charged at 35% of the CIF value. This is the primary tax on all imported vehicles and is non-negotiable.
Excise Duty (20 - 35%)
Excise duty varies based on engine capacity: vehicles under 1500cc pay 20%, 1501-2999cc pay 25%, and vehicles with 3000cc and above (petrol) or 2500cc+ (diesel) pay 35%. This is calculated on the combined CIF value and import duty.
VAT (16%)
Value Added Tax at 16% is applied to the cumulative total of the CIF value, import duty, and excise duty.