Yes — we export 2013-2019 high-roof Toyota Hiace vans (2.7L petrol or 3.0L diesel) with 14-15 seats and factory or dealer-fitted air conditioning, specifically configured for passenger transport in Kenya. Prices range from $16,000 to $24,000 FOB, plus shipping to Mombasa. We handle inspection photos and export documents before payment, so you can verify the unit before releasing funds. For current available units, contact WhatsApp +86 155 5692 0288. We are a direct exporter, not agency, not aggregator — you buy from the source, not a middleman.

What exactly is a high-roof Hiace with AC, and why does it matter for Kenyan passenger transport?

The Toyota Hiace high-roof (often called the "commuter" or "super long" roof variant) is the version with a raised roof section that gives standing or near-standing headroom in the rear cabin. For Kenyan operators running matatu-style shuttles, long-distance PSV routes, hotel transfers, or school and church transport, this matters for three practical reasons:

  • Passenger comfort and capacity: The high roof allows 14-15 seats in a layout that is far more comfortable than a standard-roof van. Passengers can board and move without stooping, which reduces complaints on longer routes such as Nairobi-Mombasa, Nairobi-Kisumu, or airport transfer runs.
  • Air conditioning that actually works: A high-roof van has more interior volume, so AC performance depends on the system being correctly specified and maintained. Units we export come with working AC — either factory dual AC or dealer-fitted systems — and we show the AC running in inspection photos and videos.
  • Resale and compliance: High-roof Hiace vans hold strong resale value in Kenya because they are the default choice for serious passenger operators. A well-documented unit with clean export papers is easier to register and insure with NTSA and your insurer.

In short, the high-roof AC Hiace is not a luxury — it is the standard tool for professional passenger transport in Kenya. The question is not whether it works, but which year, engine, and condition give you the best return.

What factors determine the price of a high-roof Hiace for Kenya?

The $16,000-$24,000 FOB range is not arbitrary. Several variables move the price up or down, and understanding them helps you negotiate and budget correctly.

  • Year of manufacture: 2013-2015 units sit at the lower end, typically $16,000-$19,000 FOB. 2016-2017 units move to $19,000-$22,000. 2018-2019 units, especially low-mileage examples, reach $22,000-$24,000. Newer vans cost more but may qualify for better financing and lower maintenance in the first years.
  • Engine choice: The 2.7L petrol (2TR-FE) is cheaper to buy and simpler to service, but thirstier on long routes. The 3.0L diesel (1KD-FTV or 5L-E depending on market) costs more upfront, delivers better fuel economy, and is preferred for high-mileage PSV work. Diesel units often command a $1,000-$2,000 premium.
  • Mileage and service history: A 2015 unit with 180,000 km and full Japanese service records can be worth more than a 2017 unit with 300,000 km and no history. We provide odometer photos and auction sheets where available.
  • Condition grade: Auction grade 4 or 4.5 units with clean interiors, no accident history, and working AC sit at the top of the range. Grade 3 or 3.5 units with cosmetic wear sit lower. We disclose the grade and show photos of seats, roof lining, AC vents, and undercarriage.
  • Seating configuration: 14-seat and 15-seat layouts are both available. Some buyers prefer 14 seats with more legroom; others want maximum capacity. The configuration can affect price slightly if it requires re-trimming or seat changes.
  • AC specification: Factory dual AC is more valuable than a single aftermarket unit. We confirm whether the van has front-only or front-and-rear AC, and we test it before export.

Because we are a direct exporter, not agency, not aggregator, we quote you the actual FOB price from the source. There is no layered commission from multiple intermediaries. That said, FOB is only part of your total landed cost — which brings us to shipping and taxes.

What are the shipping costs and taxes to Mombasa?

FOB price covers the vehicle delivered to the export port (usually Japan or another Asian hub). It does not include ocean freight, insurance, or Kenyan import duties. Here is how the numbers typically break down for a high-roof Hiace to Mombasa:

  • Ocean freight: A 20ft or 40ft container shipment to Mombasa generally runs $1,200-$2,500 depending on port of origin, shipping line, and season. RoRo (roll-on/roll-off) can be cheaper for a single van, often $900-$1,800, but container shipping offers better protection and is preferred for high-value units.
  • Marine insurance: Usually 0.3%-0.5% of CIF value. For a $20,000 van, budget roughly $60-$100. This is optional but strongly recommended.
  • Kenyan import duty: Kenya Revenue Authority assesses import duty on the CIF value (Cost, Insurance, Freight). For used passenger vans, the combined duty, excise, VAT, and IDF/RDL levies can add roughly 50%-80% of CIF depending on engine size, year, and current KRA valuation. A $20,000 FOB van might land with total taxes in the $10,000-$16,000 range. Always confirm with a licensed clearing agent using the current KRA valuation database.
  • Port and clearing charges: Mombasa port charges, container deposit, transport to Nairobi or your destination, and clearing agent fees typically add $800-$1,500.
  • KEBS and NTSA compliance: Used vehicles must meet Kenya's age and roadworthiness rules. Vans older than 8 years from first registration may face restrictions, so 2013-2019 units are generally within the acceptable window at the time of export, but verify current rules before purchase.

A realistic all-in landed cost for a $20,000 FOB high-roof Hiace in Mombasa often lands between $32,000 and $40,000 depending on taxes and clearing. We provide a written cost breakdown before you commit, so there are no surprises.

How do I inspect the van and verify the documents before paying?

This is the part where a direct exporter earns trust. We do not ask for full payment upfront on an unseen unit. The process is built around verification:

  • Inspection photos and video: We send detailed photos of the exterior, interior, roof, seats, dashboard, odometer, engine bay, undercarriage, and AC vents. We also send a walkaround video with the engine running and the AC switched on.
  • Auction sheet or condition report: Where available, we share the original auction sheet showing grade, mileage, and any noted repairs. If the unit is from a dealer stock, we provide the dealer condition report.
  • Export documents preview: Before payment, we show you the draft export certificate, invoice, and shipping documents so you can confirm the chassis number, engine number, year, and specifications match what you ordered.
  • Payment structure: Typically a deposit secures the unit, with the balance due after you approve the inspection materials and before shipping. We accept bank transfer and can discuss escrow-style arrangements for larger orders. We never ask for payment to a personal account without a company invoice.
  • Shipping and tracking: Once payment clears, we book the vessel, send you the Bill of Lading and container number, and keep you updated until the van arrives in Mombasa. Your clearing agent can then handle KRA and port formalities.

If you are buying multiple units for a fleet, we can arrange consolidated container shipping to reduce per-unit freight. Contact WhatsApp +86 155 5692 0288 with your target year, engine preference, and budget, and we will send you a shortlist with photos and FOB quotes.

Which Hiace configuration is best for your Kenyan route?

Not every operator needs the same van. Here is a quick guide:

  • Urban matatu or shuttle: 2.7L petrol, 14 seats, high roof with strong AC. Petrol is easier to service in Nairobi and Mombasa, and the lower upfront cost improves cash flow.
  • Long-distance PSV: 3.0L diesel, 15 seats, high roof, dual AC. Diesel torque and fuel economy matter on routes like Nairobi-Mombasa or Nairobi-Kisumu.
  • Hotel and tour transfers: 2017-2019 high-roof with low mileage, clean interior, and factory AC. Presentation matters, so grade 4+ units are worth the premium.
  • School, church, or staff transport: 2013-2016 units with solid mechanicals and working AC. Budget-focused, but still require clean export documents for NTSA registration.

Whatever the route, the rule is the same: buy the best-documented unit you can afford, verify the AC and chassis number, and use a direct exporter who shows you the van before you pay.

Ready to price a high-roof Hiace for your Kenyan passenger business? Message WhatsApp +86 155 5692 0288 for current stock, inspection photos, and a full FOB-to-Mombasa cost breakdown. You can also browse in-stock Can listings to see available units and specifications before you enquire.