Importing a car to Nigeria can save you money and get you a model that is not common here, like a specific SUV or hybrid. Tokunbo cars (used imports) are popular because they are often cheaper than buying new locally, and you can choose from a wider selection. The process is not as complicated as it seems if you break it down, but it does involve paperwork, fees, and patience. Done right, you end up with a reliable vehicle without the markups from local dealers. Let us walk through it step by step, so you know exactly what to expect and how to avoid common pitfalls.
Step 1: Choose the Car and Find a Reliable Seller
Start by deciding what you want. Think about fuel efficiency for our high petrol prices, ground clearance for potholes, and parts availability—Toyotas and Hondas are easiest to maintain here. Set a budget that includes the car’s price, shipping, and duties (about 35–50% of the value). Look for sellers in the US, Europe, or Dubai through sites like Copart, AutoTrader, or local agents.Verify the seller: Read reviews on forums like Nairaland or Facebook groups for importers. Ask for the VIN (vehicle identification number) and run a check on sites like Carfax for accident history or mileage tampering. Avoid deals that sound too good—scams are common where you pay and the car never arrives. Use an escrow service if possible to hold payment until delivery.
Step 2: Arrange Shipping and Get Required Documents
Once you buy, handle shipping. Freight forwarders in Nigeria can manage this—companies like Sifax or Maersk offer container shipping (safer for one car) or roll-on/roll-off (RoRo, cheaper but riskier for damage). Shipping from the US takes 4–6 weeks, Europe 2–4 weeks, costs ₦500,000–₦1,000,000 depending on size and port (Lagos or Tin Can Island are main entry points).Gather documents: Bill of Lading (shipping proof), commercial invoice (car’s value), packing list (details), and Form M (from your bank for import approval). Your bank issues Form M after you pay foreign exchange— it is mandatory for customs. Without these, the car sits at the port racking up demurrage fees (₦10,000+ per day).
Step 3: Clear Customs at the Port
When the car arrives, head to the port with your agent or forwarder. Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) handles clearance. Submit Form M, Bill of Lading, invoice, and packing list. They inspect the car for contraband and verify the value (based on age, model, and condition). Duties are 35% of the assessed value plus 35% levy for used cars, plus VAT (7.5%) and other fees like ETLS (0.5%). For a ₦2 million car, expect ₦1.5–₦2 million in total duties. Pay through a bank to NCS accounts—avoid cash to agents who might skim.Customs can reassess value higher than your invoice, so have proof (like online listings) ready. Clearance takes 3–7 days if documents are complete. Delays from incomplete papers or disputes add costs.
Step 4: Pay All Fees and Get Clearance
Beyond duties, pay port charges: terminal handling (₦50,000–₦100,000), shipping line fees, and agency costs (₦20,000–₦50,000). Once paid, NCS issues a release order. Your agent handles the paperwork, but go in person if possible to avoid delays. Total import costs (shipping + duties + fees) can add 100–150% to the car’s overseas price, so budget accordingly.
Step 5: Register the Car with VIO and FRSC
With the car released, take it to the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) for roadworthiness test (brakes, lights, emissions—₦5,000–₦10,000). Pass that, then head to the Motor Licensing Office for registration. Submit customs papers, invoice, and VIO certificate. Pay for new plates (₦10,000–₦20,000), registration (₦5,000), and sticker. Get insurance (third-party minimum, ₦5,000–₦10,000). This step makes the car legally yours.
Step 6: Collect and Inspect the Car
Pick up from the port or agent. Inspect for shipping damage—check paint, interior, and underbody. Test drive to ensure everything works. If issues, claim from shipping insurance.
Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes
Budget for the full costmany underestimate duties. Use licensed agents to navigate customs red tape. Verify the car’s history before buying abroad. Import newer cars (under 8 years old) to avoid higher duties on older ones. Be patient the whole process takes 1–3 months.Importing a car to Nigeria is doable if you plan and stay organized. It gets you a quality vehicle at a better price, but the paperwork is key. Follow these steps, and you will drive away happy.