How to Import Used Trucks from China to Kenya — 2026 Complete Guide

Why Kenya Needs Chinese Used Trucks

1. Infrastructure Boom

Kenya is investing heavily in infrastructure — the Standard Gauge Railway, Mombasa Port expansion, the Northern Corridor highway upgrades, and housing under the Big Four Agenda. All of these require massive amounts of heavy haulage. Kenya has almost no local heavy manufacturing, so building materials and equipment come in by road. Trucks aren’t optional — they’re essential. And second-hand trucks are the fastest way to fill the gap.

2. Chinese Trucks Dominate the Market

Walk onto any Kenyan highway and count the heavy trucks. Seven or eight out of ten will be Chinese — HOWO, Shacman, FAW, Foton. This isn’t an accident. Chinese manufacturers have built distribution networks, spare parts supply chains, and maintenance systems across Kenya. You can find a mechanic who knows HOWO in almost any town.

Japanese trucks are good but expensive, with long parts lead times. European trucks are in a different price league entirely. Chinese trucks win not because they’re the “best” on paper, but because they’re the most practical to own and maintain in Kenya. When the entire ecosystem revolves around one type of truck, choosing anything else becomes the exception, not the rule.

3. New vs. Used — The Price Gap Is Over 3x

A new Chinese heavy truck landed in Kenya costs approximately $50,000–$60,000. A used version of the same model (3–5 years old) costs $15,000–$20,000. That’s more than three times cheaper.

Most individual transporters and small fleets in Kenya simply can’t afford new trucks. Bank loans are expensive (commercial rates at 15%+), making financing nearly impossible. With cash payment, a used truck starts earning immediately and can recover its cost within months.

Chinese trucks are also designed for practical, high-mileage use. Even as second-hand units, they have years of life left. Unlike some European trucks that become expensive to maintain as they age, Chinese trucks keep working. It’s not a matter of preference — it’s economic reality.

Bottom line: Kenya chose Chinese used trucks because infrastructure created the demand, Chinese brands dominate the market, and the 3x price difference made the decision for them.

Which Trucks Work Best in Kenya

These aren’t just specs on paper — you’ll see these models every day on Kenyan roads.

RHD vs LHD: What Kenya Buyers Need to Know

Kenya drives on the left (RHD). Good news: Chinese manufacturers including HOWO, Shacman, and FAW produce factory RHD versions for export. When you buy from us, we source the RHD version for you — no conversion needed.

If an LHD truck is already in stock (common, since most Chinese trucks are LHD by default), RHD conversion is available at an additional $800–$1,500. But we always recommend ordering factory RHD when possible.

Kenya Import Duty & Taxes

Shipping from China to Kenya

1. Full Process: From China to Kenya

Preparation → inspection in China → export customs clearance → sea freight → destination port clearance → local delivery.

2. Required Documents