Complete Guide to Vehicle Importation into Nigeria
Importing vehicles into Nigeria is a significant business opportunity, but it requires understanding the regulatory framework, costs, and processes involved. This guide covers everything you need to know.
Approved Ports of Entry
Vehicles can be imported through:
- Tin Can Island Port, Lagos — most popular
- Apapa Port, Lagos
- Onne Port, Rivers State
- Calabar Port, Cross River State
Age Restrictions
The Nigerian government regulates the age of imported vehicles:
- New vehicles — no restrictions
- Used vehicles (Tokunbo) — must not be older than 15 years from the date of manufacture
- Vehicles older than 15 years attract significantly higher duties or may be prohibited
Import Duties & Levies
| Vehicle Type | Import Duty | VAT | Surcharge | Total Levy | |---|---|---|---|---| | New passenger vehicles | 20% | 7.5% | 20% | ~47.5% | | Used passenger vehicles | 20% | 7.5% | 20% | ~47.5% | | Commercial vehicles/trucks | 10% | 7.5% | 5% | ~22.5% | | Agricultural vehicles | 5% | 7.5% | 0% | ~12.5% |
Note: Duty is calculated on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value.
Popular Sourcing Countries
- United States — through auto auctions (Copart, IAAI, Manheim)
- Canada — competitive prices, good vehicle condition
- United Kingdom — right-hand drive vehicles
- Germany/Belgium — European makes (Mercedes, BMW, Volkswagen)
- Dubai (UAE) — growing hub for vehicle exports
- South Korea/Japan — cost-effective Asian brands
Step-by-Step Import Process
1. Purchase the Vehicle Buy from a verified dealer, auction, or private seller. Ensure you receive:
- Original title/registration document
- Bill of sale
- Vehicle identification number (VIN) verification
2. Arrange Shipping
- RoRo (Roll-on Roll-off): Vehicle is driven onto the ship. Cheaper but no container protection. USD 1,200 - 2,500 from US to Lagos.
- Container shipping: Vehicle is loaded into a container. More secure, allows shipping additional items. USD 2,500 - 4,500 per 40ft container.
3. Pre-Arrival Documentation
- Complete the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) pre-arrival assessment report
- Obtain Form M from your bank
- Arrange marine insurance
4. Customs Clearance in Nigeria
- Submit all documentation to your customs broker
- Pay assessed duties and levies
- Vehicle inspection and release
- Obtain customs duty receipt
5. Vehicle Registration After clearing customs:
- Obtain temporary movement permit
- Register with FRSC (Federal Road Safety Corps)
- Get your vehicle plate number from the state motor vehicle administration
Tips for First-Time Importers
- Always verify the vehicle's history report (Carfax for US vehicles)
- Factor in ALL costs: purchase + shipping + duties + clearing + registration
- Work with a reputable clearing agent at the port
- Consider importing during off-peak periods for faster clearance
KINGSVIC Global Vehicle Import Services
Our vehicle importation division assists clients with sourcing, shipping, and clearing vehicles from any country. We handle the entire process so you can focus on your business.
Interested in importing a vehicle? Contact us to get started.
