Motorcycle Import Duty Calculator Kenya 2026

Importing a motorcycle

Motorcycles are among Kenya's most common imports, used for transport, delivery and boda boda businesses. As with cars, the taxes are charged on a customs value rather than on the invoice price alone, and they stack: import duty first, then VAT on top of the value plus duty, then the declaration fee and the railway levy.

How the calculation works

You enter the customs value and the year of first registration. The calculator then:

1. Checks the age. Used motorcycles are subject to the same maximum age as used cars, 8 years from the year of manufacture, and the calculator stops if the motorcycle is too old.
2. Charges import duty at 25% of the customs value.
3. Charges VAT at 16% on the customs value plus duty.
4. Adds the Import Declaration Fee, a percentage of the customs value with a minimum.
5. Adds the Railway Development Levy, a percentage of the customs value.

Which value to use

For a new motorcycle, use the invoice value plus freight and insurance. For a used one, KRA may value it using its own tables rather than your invoice, particularly where it lists the model in the CRSP system. If the model is listed, use that value. If not, the invoice value including freight is the starting point, and customs can adjust it. A very low invoice relative to similar machines is likely to be challenged.

A worked example

A motorcycle with a customs value of KES 300,000 that is two years old carries total taxes of KES 163,525.28 under the rates held on this page. The result lists each charge, so you can see how much of the total is import duty and how much is VAT.

CKD and assembled bikes

Motorcycles imported in parts for local assembly, known as CKD or SKD, can attract lower duty than complete units, as the government has used the rates to encourage assembly in Kenya. The rate depends on the classification and on whether the importer is an approved assembler. This calculator applies one rate, so it does not model those cases. Ask your agent for the classification if you plan to import kits.

Electric motorcycles

Electric motorcycles have had special treatment, including reduced or zero rates of duty and VAT in some years, to encourage the switch from petrol. If you are importing an electric bike, check the current rates, because they can be very different from those for a petrol bike.

Other costs and requirements

Remember inspection fees where they apply, clearing agent fees, port charges, transport, registration with the National Transport and Safety Authority, number plates and insurance. A rider also needs a valid licence and, for commercial use, the appropriate permits and a helmet and other safety gear as the law requires.

Compare with a locally bought bike

A dealer in Kenya has already paid these taxes, so its price includes them along with its margin. Compare the landed cost of importing, including your own time and risk, with the local price. For one or two bikes, local purchase is often simpler. For larger volumes, importing can be cheaper, especially for new models.

About the estimate

The duty rate used here is marked unverified, because the rate for motorcycles should be confirmed against the EAC tariff. The calculator is an estimate for information only, and KRA's assessment at clearing is final.

Before you order a shipment

Confirm the model's classification with your agent, because motorcycles of different engine sizes and types can fall under different tariff lines. Ask the supplier for the manufacture date and chassis number, and agree on who pays for shipping and insurance. Plan for type approval and for registration with the transport authority, which can take several weeks. For a business, set aside money for spare parts and servicing, as these usually cost more than expected in the first year.

Guides, tools and templates for this topic

Read next: How much does it cost to import a car to Kenya? Duty, VAT and fees explained, VAT for small businesses in Kenya: when to register and what to charge, How to keep business records for KRA: what to save and for how long

Related calculators: Car Import Duty Calculator, Car Age Eligibility Checker, Landed Cost Calculator

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