Vehicles entering the Kenyan dealer network through the Port of Mombasa go through multiple handovers during the shipping, port and storage stages, and their condition can change at any point. Salt spray, humidity, port waiting time and battery drain are not always visible at a glance, so binding the as-arrived condition, handling process and final result to the VIN is a step that cannot be skipped before delivery. The KRA vehicle import procedures can be used to confirm the relevant port or import stage, while PDI records are responsible for proving the vehicle's actual condition.
Preserve the Original Condition When Receiving the Vehicle
Fix the original condition before moving the vehicle: photograph the transport tie-downs, wheels and visible underbody areas before moving the vehicle in the Port of Mombasa; discuss preparation, version or powertrain choices only after the evidence has been captured.
Local climate information can be referenced from the Kenya Meteorological Department, and the execution method for this batch should be confirmed by the local entity with the relevant responsibility.
Check the Underbody and Seals After Lifting
Lifting inspection items should cover sea salt, rain traces, drain holes and signs of high-temperature aging. Only by applying the same inspection criteria to all arriving vehicles can individual damage be distinguished from batch issues.
The Geely Coolray L can serve as a candidate model entry point; whether to keep it depends on measured records and local support conditions.
Staged PDI Table
Divide responsibility across three stages: port handover, wash bay and dealership re-inspection. Photos and signatures before and after handling must both be kept, so problems can always be traced to the handover where they occurred.
| Stage | Key records | Anomaly handling |
|---|---|---|
| Port handover | VIN, exterior, glass, tyres, instruments and transport tie-downs | Keep evidence and distinguish transport responsibility |
| Warehouse intake | Underbody, drainage, seals, battery and connectors | Check the source after cleaning and drying |
| Preparation | A/C, lights, doors and windows, cameras, radar and charging | Full re-inspection after repair |
| Before delivery | Compare current condition with original records | No delivery while safety anomalies remain open |
A/C and Electrical Systems Must Cover Multiple States
After heat soak, re-check A/C cooling, starting power and dashboard warnings. Until anomalies are identified and re-verified, keep the vehicle isolated and do not schedule new batches with the same unresolved issue.
FAQ
Do new vehicles also need a lift inspection?
New vehicles should also be scheduled for a lift inspection. Shipping tie-downs, loading and unloading and port movement can affect the underbody, and a ground-level visual check cannot cover every position.
Can a vehicle be released if there are no water marks after washing?
At delivery acceptance, you cannot only look at the appearance after washing. Confirm the source of any water marks, ensure thorough drying, and re-check electrical and seal condition.
How should minor scratches found during PDI be handled?
After finding a delivery anomaly, first preserve the original photos and the responsible stage, then repair according to the contract and record materials, personnel and re-inspection results.
Which issues should block delivery?
In the delivery inspection, when braking, steering, structure, high-voltage insulation, persistent water ingress or safety warnings of unknown cause remain open, the vehicle should be isolated pending assessment.
To check vehicle models, CIF quotes and delivery documentation for the Kenyan market, you can contact Starvia Automotive, or discuss your sourcing needs via WhatsApp: +1 669 292 8680.
This article is compiled from the KRA vehicle import procedures, public information from the Kenya Meteorological Department and general vehicle delivery principles. Specific PDI items should be determined by model, VIN, transport contract and destination-country requirements. Information verified on: 2026-08-19.