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How to Import iPhones to Kenya Without Paying More

How to Import iPhones to Kenya Without Paying More: A Complete Guide

By Drake Ocholi | Telefon Kenya

Introduction

Buying an iPhone in Kenya can be expensive, especially if you’re purchasing from local retailers who often inflate prices due to import taxes, shipping costs, and profit margins. However, importing an iPhone directly can save you a significant amount of money—if you know how to do it right.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to import an iPhone to Kenya without overpaying. We’ll cover:

  • Why importing an iPhone can be cheaper
  • Legal considerations and taxes
  • Best platforms to buy from
  • Shipping options and costs
  • How to avoid scams
  • Alternative options (like buying from Telefon Kenya)

By the end of this article, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to get your dream iPhone at the best possible price.

Why Importing an iPhone Can Be Cheaper

Kenyan retailers often add a 20-40% markup on iPhones due to:

  • Import duties (typically 10-25%)
  • Shipping and handling fees
  • Retailer profit margins

When you import directly, you cut out the middleman, meaning you only pay for:

  1. The iPhone’s actual price (often cheaper in the US, UK, or UAE)
  2. Shipping costs (varies by courier)
  3. Customs duties (which you can legally minimize)

Example: iPhone 15 Pro (128GB) Price Comparison

Source Price (KES) Notes
Kenyan Retailer 220,000 - 250,000 Includes markup
US Apple Store ~180,000 Before shipping & tax
UAE (Dubai) ~190,000 Tax-free, cheaper shipping

As you can see, importing can save you KES 30,000 - 70,000 on a single iPhone.

Step 1: Choose the Right iPhone Model

Not all iPhones work perfectly in Kenya. Here’s what to consider:

Network Compatibility

Kenya uses 4G/LTE bands 3, 7, 20, and 28. Ensure the iPhone you buy supports these.

  • US Models (A-series) – Some are locked to carriers (avoid unless unlocked).
  • Global/UK/UAE Models – Usually unlocked and fully compatible.

Warranty Considerations

  • Apple’s warranty is global, but some sellers may not honor it in Kenya.
  • Buying from Apple Authorized Resellers (like Amazon, Best Buy, or Apple UAE) is safer.

Step 2: Where to Buy (Best Platforms)

1. Apple US Store (Cheapest but Tricky)

✅ Pros: Lowest prices, brand new, warranty.
❌ Cons: Need a US address (use a forwarder like SavoStore or Kentex Cargo).

2. Amazon / Best Buy (Refurbished Options)

✅ Pros: Discounted prices, certified refurbished iPhones available.
❌ Cons: Shipping costs can be high.

3. UAE (Dubai) – Best for Tax-Free Shopping

✅ Pros: No VAT, many sellers ship directly to Kenya.
❌ Cons: Slightly higher base price than the US.

4. UK (Apple Store or Back Market)

✅ Pros: Reliable shipping, unlocked phones.
❌ Cons: Prices higher than the US.

Step 3: Shipping to Kenya (Best Methods)

Option 1: Courier Services (DHL, FedEx, SavoStore)

  • Cost: KES 5,000 - 15,000 (depends on weight).
  • Delivery Time: 3-7 days.
  • Pros: Fast, tracked, insured.
  • Cons: Expensive, may attract higher customs fees.

Option 2: Air Freight Forwarders (Kentex Cargo, SavoStore)

  • Cost: KES 3,000 - 8,000 (slower but cheaper).
  • Delivery Time: 7-14 days.
  • Pros: Cheaper, consolidated shipping available.
  • Cons: Slower, less tracking.

Option 3: Traveler Hand-Carry (Best for No Tax)

  • If you have a friend or relative traveling, ask them to bring it.
  • No customs if:
    • The iPhone is used (remove packaging).
    • Declared as a personal device.

Step 4: Understanding Kenyan Customs & Taxes

iPhone Import Tax Breakdown

  • Import Duty: 10% (of CIF value).
  • VAT: 16% (of total value + duty).
  • IDF & RA Fees: ~KES 5,000.

Example Calculation (iPhone 15 Pro at KES 180,000):

  • Duty (10%) = KES 18,000
  • VAT (16%) = KES 31,680
  • Total Tax ≈ KES 49,680

How to Reduce Customs Charges

  1. Declare a Lower Value (risky but common).
  2. Ship as "Used Phone" (remove box, include a receipt showing lower value).
  3. Use a Tax-Avoiding Forwarder (some companies have ways to minimize fees).

Step 5: Avoiding Scams When Importing

Many Kenyans lose money to fake sellers. Here’s how to stay safe:

Red Flags to Watch For:

❌ "Too good to be true" prices (e.g., iPhone 15 for KES 80,000).
❌ Sellers asking for full payment upfront via M-Pesa.
❌ No buyer protection (always use PayPal or Escrow).

Safe Payment Methods:

✅ PayPal Goods & Services (buyer protection).
✅ Credit Card (chargeback option).
✅ Escrow Services (money held until delivery).

Step 6: Alternative Option – Buy from Telefon Kenya

If importing seems complicated, Telefon Kenya offers affordable, pre-verified iPhones with:

✅ No hidden taxes (all fees included).
✅ Warranty & return policy.
✅ Easy purchase process (MPESA, Save-to-Buy, Trade-in).

How to Buy on Telefon:

  1. Visit Telefon Buy Page.
  2. Select your iPhone & check specs.
  3. Fill in delivery details.
  4. Choose payment (MPESA, Cash on Delivery, etc.).

Final Thoughts

Importing an iPhone to Kenya can save you thousands of shillings, but it requires careful planning. Follow this guide to:

✔ Buy from trusted sources (US, UAE, UK).
✔ Use reliable shipping (DHL, Kentex Cargo).
✔ Minimize customs fees (declare wisely).
✔ Avoid scams (use PayPal, verified sellers).

If you prefer a hassle-free option, check out Telefon Kenya’s iPhone collection for great deals without the import stress.

Got Questions?

Drop a comment below or visit our Forum to discuss iPhone imports with other Kenyan buyers!

Happy iPhone shopping! 📱✨

Author: Drake Ocholi
Website: Telefon Kenya
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