How to Import Cars from China to Nigeria

A complete guide to importing vehicles from China to Nigeria, including shipping to Lagos, customs duties, and vehicle age restrictions.

Step 1: Choose Your Exporter

Select an experienced exporter with Nigeria market knowledge. Chedoo Auto ships regularly to Lagos and understands Nigerian regulations.

Step 2: Check Vehicle Age Limit

Nigeria restricts used car imports to vehicles not more than 15 years old (from date of manufacture). Verify VIN and production date before purchase.

Step 3: Select Vehicles

Popular in Nigeria: Toyota Hilux, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Lexus RX, and increasingly Chinese brands like BYD and Geely.

Step 4: Pay and Inspect

30% deposit, balance after inspection. Request detailed photos and vehicle history report.

Step 5: Shipping to Lagos

Sea freight to Tin Can Island or Apapa port in Lagos. Transit time 30-40 days. RORO is most common for vehicles.

Step 6: Customs Clearance

Hire a licensed Nigerian customs agent. Pay import duty based on vehicle value (typically 20-35% for cars, higher for luxury). Pay VAT and other levies.

Step 7: Registration

Obtain vehicle registration, plate number, and roadworthiness certificate from VIO (Vehicle Inspection Office).

Port	Transit Time	Shipping Cost
Tin Can Island (Lagos)	30-40 days	$1,800-2,800
Apapa (Lagos)	30-40 days	$1,800-2,800
Onne (Port Harcourt)	35-45 days	$2,000-3,000

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the vehicle age limit for Nigeria?

A: Nigeria allows import of used vehicles up to 15 years from date of manufacture. Vehicles older than 15 years are prohibited. Check the production date on the VIN plate.

Q: How much is customs duty in Nigeria?

A: Customs duty is calculated based on HS code and vehicle value. Typically 20-35% for standard cars, plus 7.5% VAT and other levies. Pickups and SUVs may have different rates.

Q: Which port should I ship to in Nigeria?

A: Tin Can Island port in Lagos handles most vehicle imports via RORO. Apapa port also accepts vehicles. Onne port (Port Harcourt) is an alternative for eastern Nigeria.

Q: How long does shipping take to Nigeria?

A: Sea freight from Tianjin to Lagos takes 30-40 days. Customs clearance can take 5-15 days depending on documentation. Total: 35-55 days.

Q: Can I ship a car to Nigeria without an agent?

A: Technically yes, but highly recommended to use a licensed customs agent. Nigerian customs procedures are complex and agents expedite clearance significantly.

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