Cost Of Clearing A Car In Nigeria

If you’re planning to import a car into Nigeria, the cost of clearing it through customs is something you must know. Many first-time importers are shocked by how much clearing a vehicle actually costs. Between government charges, agent fees, and service costs, things can add up fast. If you don’t understand the system, you’ll either get stuck or overpay. That’s why this guide breaks it all down in plain terms.

We’re not here to confuse you with long words or vague explanations. You’ll get the real figures, timelines, and what to expect at each stage. From how much customs will ask for, to how often you need to service the car once it’s cleared, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also show you how to avoid common mistakes people make when trying to clear their car on their own.

Now, if you’re looking for fast, reliable, and affordable clearing services, Yusuf Babatunde Jimoh offers top-notch freight forwarding and customs clearing. He handles all the stress for you, so you can sit back while your car is cleared and delivered. Contact him on +2348052803653 or 09039743395 or send an email to tunjim4@gmail.com. Let’s now break down the actual clearing process and related costs in Nigeria.

How Long Does It Take To Clear A Car In Nigeria?

Clearing a car in Nigeria doesn’t have a fixed timeline. A smooth clearance process takes around 5 to 7 working days. But this depends on many things. For example, if your documents are incomplete, or there’s a problem at customs, things will take longer. Delays also happen if the clearing agent doesn’t act fast. Some cases take up to two weeks or more.

The first step is for your clearing agent to get your Bill of Lading and start the customs entry. After that, customs will calculate your duty. You then pay it through a bank that works with Nigeria Customs. Once payment is confirmed, your car goes through inspection. After clearance, the vehicle is released and taken to a location you choose.

To make this process faster, work with a trusted clearing agent. The right agent knows how to avoid delays. They prepare documents in advance and follow up with customs officers. The longer your car stays at the port, the more demurrage you pay. So speed matters.

Also, remember that if your car arrives during public holidays or port congestion, expect delays. The dry season usually sees faster processing. Rainy season brings floods, which slow things down. To be safe, always give yourself 2 weeks buffer time, even if everything goes well.

How Much Is Custom Duty On A Car In Nigeria?

Custom duty is the biggest cost when clearing a car. Nigeria Customs charges a percentage of the car’s value, based on the year, model, and type. This duty usually falls between 35% and 70%. If your car is used and was manufactured less than 10 years ago, you’re looking at around 35% for import duty and another 35% for levy. That’s a total of 70% of the car’s value.

Let’s say your car is valued at ₦5 million. A 70% duty means you’ll pay ₦3.5 million to clear it. But if the car is older or the type falls under reduced duty, the percentage may be lower. Cars used for commercial services, like buses, sometimes attract less duty.

Customs uses a database called VIN valuation to set the value of your car. You can’t lie or present fake receipts to reduce the cost. The system already knows the fair value based on international prices. Trying to cut corners will only delay the process and might lead to seizure.

Also note that Nigeria Customs updates its rates often. If you’re importing cars regularly, check the official customs site or consult with a clearing agent. They can give you the exact figure based on current rules. Always budget a little extra in case of rate changes or unexpected fees.

How Long Does Custom Clearance Take In Nigeria?

General customs clearance in Nigeria can take 3 to 10 working days. For cars, expect 5 to 7 days. But just like with everything in Nigeria, things don’t always go as planned. Weekends, strikes, or errors in paperwork can stretch the timeline.

The first step in clearance is generating a PAAR (Pre-Arrival Assessment Report). It usually takes a day if your documents are complete. After that, you’ll go through customs assessment, duty payment, physical inspection, and release. Each of these steps can face delays if you’re not well prepared.

The biggest delay happens during inspection. If customs finds anything wrong with your documents or the car, they will issue a query. Until that’s resolved, the car won’t move. Sometimes, the issue is minor. Other times, it takes a week to sort out.

If you want a faster clearance time, make sure your agent knows the system. Experienced clearing agents can push your file forward. They know how to handle PAAR, negotiate inspection, and track the release process daily. Also, avoid last-minute imports during Christmas or festive periods. That’s when delays peak.

How Much Does It Cost To Service A Car In Nigeria?

Once your car is cleared and on the road, you’ll need to service it. The cost depends on the car brand, model, and type of service. For regular maintenance, expect to pay between ₦20,000 and ₦70,000. This includes oil change, air filter, fuel filter, and labor.

If you drive a Toyota or Honda, parts are cheaper and easy to find. Brands like BMW, Benz, and Lexus cost more. You’ll pay more for parts and also for skilled labor. If your car came with problems from overseas, the first service could cost more than ₦100,000.

You can go to a brand service center or use a trusted roadside mechanic. Service centers cost more but offer proper diagnostics. Roadside guys are cheaper but may not do a thorough job. Always get a price breakdown before approving the work.

Also, avoid fake parts. They’re cheaper but dangerous. You might save today but spend more tomorrow fixing the damage. Stick with original parts or trusted aftermarket ones. For imported cars, always do a full check after clearing, especially brakes, oil, tires, and suspension.

How Often Should I Service My Car In Nigeria?

Most experts say you should service your car every 5,000 to 7,000 km. In Nigeria, that’s about every 2 or 3 months if you drive often. If your car is old or you drive in bad road conditions, service it more often. Bad roads wear out parts faster.

The kind of service also matters. Basic service is oil change and filter. Full service includes spark plugs, brakes, gear oil, and wheel balancing. You don’t need full service every time, but try to do it twice a year.

If your car starts making noise, jerking, or the check engine light comes on, don’t wait. These are signs that your car needs urgent attention. Ignoring them can lead to big engine problems.

Regular service keeps your car in top shape. It saves fuel, improves performance, and stops sudden breakdowns. If you plan to sell the car later, a good service record helps you get better value. Keep receipts and service logs. They prove you’ve taken good care of the car.

How Many Months Should I Change My Car Engine Oil?

Changing engine oil is the most important part of servicing. Most cars need oil change every 3 months or 5,000 km. New cars with synthetic oil can go up to 7,000 km. But in Nigeria, where roads are rough and traffic is tight, stick to the 3-month rule.

If you use your car every day, your engine works harder. Heat, dust, and bad fuel reduce oil life. Driving long distances or carrying heavy loads? Change oil even sooner. Bad oil causes engine noise, smoke, and eventually engine failure.

Use the right oil grade for your car. Don’t go cheap on oil. It affects your engine’s life. Brands like Mobil, Total, and Castrol are good picks. Always check your oil level monthly and top up if it’s low.

Neglecting oil changes is a bad habit. It may save you money short term, but it kills your engine over time. Stick to a routine. Mark your calendar or set reminders.

How Long Does A Service Last On A Car?

A full service should last you 2 to 3 months. That covers daily driving, traffic, and light road trips. But again, it depends on the kind of car and how you use it. Some people service their car and don’t check anything again until it breaks down. That’s wrong.

After each service, you should still check your oil, water, brake fluid, and tire pressure every week. Servicing is not a one-time fix. It’s ongoing care.

If your service includes new spark plugs, gear oil, brake pads, and a thorough inspection, then you’re good for 2 to 4 months. But if you only did an oil change, don’t wait more than a month before checking again.

Always drive with your ears and eyes open. Strange sounds, overheating, or sluggish movement are early warnings. Don’t wait till your car stops on the express. Service keeps your car alive.

How Often Should You Do A Fuel Service?

Fuel service isn’t done often, but it matters. You should clean your fuel system every 6 months. That includes the fuel filter, injector nozzles, and fuel pump. Bad fuel in Nigeria can clog your system fast.

If your car starts jerking, misfiring, or struggling to climb hills, fuel system issues might be the cause. A dirty injector leads to poor combustion and high fuel use. Clean injectors mean smoother rides.

A full fuel service costs about ₦20,000 to ₦50,000 depending on your car. It takes about 2 hours to complete. Do it if your car has been parked long or used low-quality fuel.

Preventive fuel service is cheaper than repairs. Once your fuel pump gets damaged, replacement could cost over ₦100,000. Stay ahead by servicing early.

Conclusion

Clearing a car in Nigeria isn’t cheap or easy, but it can be stress-free when you know what to expect. Between customs duty, clearing delays, and maintenance, the costs add up. But with good planning and the right people handling your job, you’ll save time and money.

Yusuf Babatunde Jimoh offers expert freight forwarding and car clearing services across Nigeria. He gets your car cleared fast and legally. No hidden charges, no stories. Call or WhatsApp him now at +2348052803653 or 09039743395. You can also send an email to tunjim4@gmail.com.

Let the right people handle your car clearance, so you don’t have to. Now you know the cost, timing, and steps involved. Make your next car import smooth and easy.