Clearing a car in Nigeria is one of the most important steps when importing a vehicle. Whether you are buying a used car from abroad or shipping a new one into the country, knowing the costs involved helps you avoid stress and hidden fees. The clearing process involves dealing with customs duties, shipping documents, inspection charges, and port handling fees. Without proper guidance, you can lose money or even risk having your car seized.
This is where expert help makes a difference. Yusuf Babatunde Jimoh is a trusted freight forwarding and clearing agent in Nigeria. With years of experience handling PAAR, customs duty, shipping, and delivery, he ensures your car is cleared quickly and legally. If you need fast, stress-free service, contact him at +2348052803653 or 09039743395. You can also reach him via email at [email protected].
In this post, you will learn how much it costs to clear cars in Nigeria, what affects the cost, and how long the process takes. We will also cover how to check if your car has been cleared, the cost of car registration, and other charges that may surprise you.
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How Much Is The Clearance Fee In Nigeria?
The cost of clearing a car in Nigeria depends on the year, make, model, and engine size of the vehicle. Generally, cars with larger engines attract higher duties. As of now, clearing a car can cost between ₦600,000 and ₦2.5 million. This range covers everything from older sedans to newer SUVs. The duty is calculated using a formula that includes import duty (35 percent), levy (35 percent for newer cars), VAT (7.5 percent), and other small fees.
Let’s take an example. If you are clearing a 2008 Toyota Corolla, you might spend about ₦750,000. But if it’s a 2018 Toyota Highlander, expect to pay over ₦2 million. These figures change often due to exchange rates and policy shifts. So always confirm before shipping your car.
Another thing to consider is whether your car is shipped through a roll-on-roll-off (RoRo) or container method. RoRo tends to be cheaper and faster. Container shipping gives more protection but adds to the cost. You’ll also pay for terminal handling, port storage, and inspection. These fees can add another ₦100,000 to ₦300,000 depending on how long your car stays at the port.
How Long Does It Take To Clear A Car In Nigeria?
Clearing a car in Nigeria normally takes 3 to 7 working days. This depends on whether all your documents are ready. If everything is complete — like the PAAR, invoice, and bill of lading — the process can be fast. But if there are errors in your paperwork, or your clearing agent is slow, it can take weeks.
The process starts with customs valuation. Customs checks your car’s age, make, and condition to assign a value. This value determines how much duty you pay. After that, your agent will process the declaration using the Nigeria Customs portal. Then they move to payment, examination, and release. You also need to pay shipping companies, terminal operators, and sometimes bribes, which delay the process.
Many importers end up paying demurrage. This is a fine for leaving your car at the port beyond the free period (usually 5 days). The longer it stays, the more you pay. This is why using a reliable agent like Yusuf Babatunde Jimoh is smart. He knows the system and can fast-track the process to save you money.
How Much Does It Cost To Service A Car In Nigeria?
Servicing a car in Nigeria is not expensive, but prices vary by brand. A basic service, which includes oil change, oil filter, and air filter, can cost between ₦15,000 and ₦50,000 for most cars. Premium brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, or Lexus cost more to service — between ₦70,000 and ₦150,000 per routine service.
Labor charges also vary. Roadside mechanics charge less than branded service centers. But some roadside work can damage your car if the mechanic is not trained. That’s why it’s smart to use trusted workshops for modern vehicles. Some services even come to your house for basic maintenance.
Aside from routine service, factor in other expenses like changing brake pads, tires, suspension parts, or battery. These can cost from ₦10,000 to over ₦300,000 depending on your car. It’s best to service your car every 5,000 to 7,000 kilometers to avoid breakdowns and extra expenses.
How Much Is Custom Duty On Cars In Nigeria?
Customs duty is one of the largest fees when clearing a car. For used cars, the import duty is 35 percent of the car’s value. For newer cars or SUVs, there may also be a 35 percent levy. This brings the total to about 70 percent in some cases. Add VAT (7.5 percent), ECOWAS levy, and other minor charges, and the total cost climbs higher.
Customs uses a database called VIN Valuation to calculate how much you’ll pay. The valuation is not always based on the price you paid abroad. Instead, it’s based on the car’s age, make, and Nigerian market value. If you underdeclare your invoice, they may seize your car or delay the process.
Make sure you use a clearing agent who understands how to navigate customs rules. Yusuf Babatunde Jimoh has helped hundreds of Nigerians clear their cars without drama. He makes sure your PAAR and declaration are accurate and helps avoid surprises at the port.
What Is Custom Value Of A Car?
The customs value is what Nigeria Customs uses to decide how much duty you’ll pay. This is not always the same as your purchase price. Customs uses a benchmark value set by their system. They look at the car’s brand, model, year, and engine size. They also consider shipping cost.
Let’s say you buy a 2010 Toyota Camry for $3,000. Even if that’s your invoice price, customs may value it at $5,000. That’s what they’ll use to calculate duty. They’ll then convert this to naira using the customs exchange rate, which can be higher than the black-market rate.
Custom value can affect your final cost by hundreds of thousands of naira. If you’re not careful, you’ll be forced to pay more or face delays. An experienced agent can help you challenge an unfair valuation or provide supporting documents.
What Is The Cost Of Registering A Car In Nigeria?
Once your car is cleared, you need to register it before you can drive. Registration involves getting a plate number, vehicle license, proof of ownership, and roadworthiness. The full cost can range from ₦60,000 to ₦150,000 depending on your state and car type.
Lagos, for example, charges more for registration than smaller states. You’ll pay for biometric capturing, plate number (₦35,000 to ₦50,000), vehicle license (₦15,000 to ₦30,000), and other papers. Commercial vehicles may also pay for hackney permits and inspection.
It’s smart to do your registration quickly to avoid being stopped by law enforcement. Make sure the documents are genuine. Many people fall for fake registration at lower prices and get into trouble later.
How To Check Vehicle Custom Clearance Status?
To confirm if your car has been cleared, use the Nigeria Customs portal. You’ll need your vehicle’s chassis number (VIN). Visit the customs e-clearance site and enter the VIN. If the car is cleared, the system will show details like PAAR number, duty paid, and location of clearance.
You can also ask your agent for a copy of the valuation or customs release. These show that the car has passed through proper channels. If you can’t verify clearance, the car might have been smuggled or underdeclared.
Always confirm before paying for a car already in Nigeria. Many buyers get scammed with uncleared cars. Buying a car with fake or unpaid duty can get you arrested or lose your car to customs.
How Much Is Vehicle Particulars In Nigeria?
Vehicle particulars include documents you must have to drive legally. These include:
- Vehicle license
- Insurance certificate
- Roadworthiness certificate
- Proof of ownership
- Plate number slip
The full cost of all these ranges from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000 depending on location. You need to renew them every year. Third-party insurance alone costs ₦5,000 to ₦10,000. Vehicle license is about ₦10,000 to ₦20,000. Roadworthiness may cost ₦5,000 to ₦7,000.
Driving without valid papers can lead to fines or seizure. FRSC and VIO officers check these documents daily. Make sure you update your particulars on time. Keep soft copies or take photos in case you lose them.
Conclusion
Clearing a car in Nigeria can be smooth if you know the costs and follow the process. You must budget for customs duty, port fees, registration, and servicing. If you cut corners, you risk losing your money or car. The smartest move is to work with someone who knows what they’re doing.
Yusuf Babatunde Jimoh is a tested and trusted name in clearing and forwarding in Nigeria. He has helped many car importers avoid delays and extra charges. If you’re importing a car soon, contact him at +2348052803653 or 09039743395. Or send him an email at [email protected]. With him on your side, your car will be cleared fast and delivered safely.
Whether you’re clearing from Lagos port, Tin Can, or Seme border, don’t go it alone. A reliable agent saves you time and money. Plan smart. Clear smart. Drive happy.
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