Hi Wazuans. I am interested in attempting truck business; either ferry goods Nairobi- upcountry or just do it upcountry only. I am told Mitsubishi are stronger and more durable than Isuzus. For upcountry i require to ferry around 120 sacks of maize per trip but am not sure the truck size or engine cc for that.

You need a lot of floating cash,...or a quick line of ready credit. Trucks keep breaking spares, even when they are relatively new. I have a pal who owns a Merc Actros, he keeps a buffer of 60-90K ready for bust tyres, brakes and other things that might stop that delivery from happening ...and you know when you delay cargo ...

Thanks. Does it matter whether you get a local(new) or used japanese import?

Used trucks are a no-no..get a new or imported one if you can.

@ mmarto, a good japanese import, ile haijafanyiwa maneno mingi kwa engine, could be good enough though i havent had any experience with them. Have had a nasty experience with a local second hand truck in Kenya and i got burnt pretty bad.

long distance truck kedo 250k for mileage is quite newish.

old lorry for starters is not a really bad idea...but try get a good one at that. Maybe later on you can graduate to a new or imported one

Speaking of imports.. I have looked and cant find a reliable exporter japan or otherwise. Any ideas. Much appreciated.

What's your budget-on the road? 3.5m
What make of truck?- Merc/Isuzu
What axle config?-
What body type?- For container transport only - This is the flat bed correct?
What category? - advice. I am new and seeking info.

You are looking for a Tractor unit - HGV prime mover.
Body can be done in Kenya. Otherwise shipping a body escalates costs.
Mercedes Actros/Axor is fine & longer lasting.
SPARE PARTS available... same way trucks are shipped. For smaller part (servicable) as well as 10-20kg weight you get them in 7 days (air freight). You could also get heavier parts by air freight but it may be cheaper to ship them (4 weeks).
You get them at a fraction of the cost you would buy in Kenya.

Axle [4x2, 6x2 and 6x4 where a 6x4 has three axles, with two of the axles driven]
You are likely to get 6x2 where 3 axles but single axle drive... similar to 2wd car.

You do not need to know about that anyway. What's important is what you want the truck for and GVW (gross vehicle weight) eg 38-44,000kg.

I can send you images or examples to have a clearer view.