Maridady Blog

How to Import Cars from Japan Without SBT Japan

Everyday You Can See Hundreds of Japnese imported cars on Kenya roads as People in Kenya Likes Japnese Cars due to their affordability and reliability. Whenever Kenyan People think of importing cars from Japan,  SBT Japan is Usually the first option that comes to mind. But the truth is, SBT Japan is not the only option.  Many people don’t know that they can import their dream car without using SBT Japan and even save money in the process. Yes, you can directly buy from Japnese Auctions yourself or take  help from independent exporters. In this Article, we”ll tell you some ways and process to import a Japnese car without SBT Japan.

Why Look for Alternatives to SBT Japan

First Thing you need to understand that why you need alternatives, IS SBT Japan Bad? No, They aren’t bad. They are just not always the best fit for every buyer and why are we saying that, let’s see the reasons.

Pricing and commissions

First and Biggest reason is Cost. When you import with SBT, they’ll charge platform fees, handling charges, and their own margins too. Though they give convenience, but sometimes this will result in paying more price than actual market.  Buyers who want better deals often prefer working directly with exporters or auction agents where pricing is clearer and more negotiable.

Limited inventory control
With SBT, you are limited only to what they have listed on their platform. So, You don’t always have access to the full range of vehicles available in Japanese auctions. In case you are looking for a specific rim, color or budget, you may not get what you want. Here, direct importing allows buyers a wide range of options and take part in multiple auctions.

Desire for direct sourcing
People who want more control over the buying process can also go for Direct Importing. When you source directly, you get to see auction sheets, vehicle grades, and inspection reports in real time. This transparency helps you understand exactly what you’re paying for and reduces surprises after the car arrives. For anyone serious about saving money and making informed decisions when they import a Japanese car in Kenya, going direct can be a smarter long-term approach.

Ways to Import Cars from Japan Without SBT Japan

Buying Directly from Japanese Car Auctions

First option is to buy directly from Japanese Auctions. To do this, you can look for Big names like USS, TAA, and JU auctions that offers thousands of cars every week from economy cars to high end models. Each vehicle comes with an auction grade, inspection notes, and condition diagrams. This system is very transparent and helps buyers understand the real condition of the car including mileage, scratches, accident history, and interior wear.

Using Independent Japanese Exporters

Another popular option is Spend a little bit on independent Japanese exporters. These exporters act as a interface between Japan and Kenya. They help you source vehicles from auctions or local dealerships, arrange inspections, handle export paperwork, and organize shipping to Nairobi, Mombasa or wherever you want to ship. The advantage of using this option is that You Can negotiate prices, request specific vehicles, and even wait for the right unit to appear instead of settling for what’s already listed. This approach is ideal for buyers looking for specific models, including people searching for Subaru Cars for Sale in Kenya, where condition and price matter more than speed.

Step-by-Step Process to Import a Japnese Car Independently

Step 1 – Choose the Right Vehicle

First step is to choose the car you want to import. While choosing read vehicle’s inspection report carefully and pay attention to mileage, physical condition and auction grade.  Lower mileage and higher auction a grade usually signals that car is in better condition, but they also cost more. Also, don’t forget to check auction sheet for car’s accident history, repairs and maintenance history.   This step is especially important if you’re looking to buy Toyota, Subaru or Nissan Cars for sale in Kenya.

Step 2 – Verify the Exporter or Agent

Before sending any money, make sure the exporter or agent you’re dealing with is legitimate. Check their business registration in Japan, how long they’ve been operating, and what previous buyers say about them. Reviews from Kenyan customers are a big plus. Be cautious of exporters who rush you, avoid sharing documents, or offer deals that sound too good to be true these are common red flags.

Step 3 – Payment, Inspection & Export

Once you choose your ideal car and confirmed the exporter legitimacy, you can transfer money to exporter and proceed further with importation process. After you done the payment,  the car will  go through final inspection and remaining export process. You will also receive export certificate, invoice, and bill of lading which is needed for clearance in Kenya.

Step-4 Shipment

Now, for Shipping, you can either opt RoRo (for cheaper and standard vehicles)  or container shipping (for high end cars who need extra protection). It totally depends on what car you are importing and your budget.

Risks of Importing without SBT Japan

Scam exporters and fake agents: Be aware of unverified exporters. There are scammers in the car market that pretend to be legitimate agents and may cone your Money. To avoid this, first verify the export’s business, reviews, successful deals and experience.
 

Fake or altered auction sheets: Avoid fake auction sheets and misleading car information. Always ask for accident history and damage descriptions. If its possible make sure verify docs and sheets by a third party and learn o read auction grades sheet yourself to make a better decision.
 

Hidden costs and unexpected charges: Sometimes sellers includes high additional prices like inspection fees, shipping, port and clearing charges. So, request a full payment breakdown before buying to confirm total cost and Budget.
 

Shipping delays and document issues
In Car Importing Process, delays can happen if there’s missing or incorrect documents. To avoid these delays, make sure to Provide all Required documents.  

Conclusion

Importing a Japnese car without SBT japan is possible and also a cost effective option but you have to do decent efforts too.  Importing a car gives you extra choices and control over pricing, costing, and vehicle’s actual condition. If done right, it allows you to get good deals under less pricing than bigger platforms. You Can also take help from Maridady Motors to get assistance and making smarter decisions.