Direct importation vs Local: This is the best way to buy your car

Direct importation vs Local: Purchasing a car is a huge undertaking; a significant investment and that is why it’s best to conduct some due diligence on where to get the best deal and acquire the car safely.

Her are the pros and cons of both direct importation and buying a car locally:

Direct importation

In a nutshell, this is when you identify a car virtually in either of the most common markets that we (Kenya) buy pre-owned cars from.(Japan, UK, Singapore and Thailand) However this comes with its advantages and disadvantages.

How do you benefit when you import directly?

1. The most significant is that you get a good deal on price.
2. There is a wide variety to choose from when you are shopping for cars virtually and there is less hassle.
3. If you are buying from the auction IN JAPAN, you are able to have a glimpse of the history and quality of the car.

What are the disadvantages?

1. Fraud: Some sites that majority of the Kenyan car buyers shop for cars overseas have been replicated by fraudsters and so it’s very easy to get duped.
2. It is pretty technical: It is always good to consult someone who understands direct Importation, soon we will be offering that service at Bizna Kenya. Kenya has legislation that restricts importation of cars that are over 8 years old, however the newer the car, the heftier the import duty (taxation). You might end up paying way more duty for selecting a car whose month of registration falls in the next year of manufacture. ( We call it bad month) I will explain this in a subsequent update.
3. You have to be patient..it takes about 6 to 8 weeks from the time of purchase to when you drive the car.
4. Credit options are limited for direct Importation, however cooperative bank I offering import financing.
5. The car might have some defects that cannot be deciphered from photos.

Why miraa transporters in Kenya prefer the Toyota Hilux

Buying Locally

This is literally walking to a showroom and buying a car. However it also comes with its advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages

1. You get to have a real view of the car you intend to buy.
2. There are plenty of financing options available.. (Bank financing , Sacco Financing and even hire purchase)
3. You can have a professional inspect the car for you.
4. You get to sign physical legal documents like agreements with the dealer.

Disadvantages

1. You might not get to have a glimpse history of the car.
2. You need to consult a professional to inspect the car for you.
3. Fraud: There are some unscrupulous dealers  out there. Always conduct due diligence on the unit you have decided on.
4. Moving around comparing cars is quite a huge hassle. Tiresome and even sometimes frustrating.
5. Unfair contracts especially with hire purchase arrangements.