Import Cars from China to Nigeria
Nigeria is one of Africa's largest vehicle markets, with strong demand for affordable, reliable SUVs and sedans. Importing cars from China to Nigeria offers significant cost advantages over European or Japanese alternatives, with shipping times of 27–39 days and freight starting at $4,125 USD.
At DriveSino, we handle the full export process from China to Nigeria — vehicle sourcing, multi-point inspection, export documentation, shipping from Shanghai/Guangzhou to Lagos, and customs clearance support. Whether you're a dealer importing multiple units or an individual buyer, we make the process straightforward.
Why Import from China to Nigeria?
- Price advantage: Chinese vehicles cost 20–40% less than comparable Japanese or European models, making them highly competitive in the Nigerian market
- Wide model selection: Brands like Haval, BYD, Geely, Changan, and GWM offer everything from affordable sedans to luxury SUVs and pickup trucks
- Growing brand acceptance: Chinese brands have established strong service networks across Nigeria, particularly in Lagos and Abuja
- Fuel efficiency & EV options: Newer Chinese models offer excellent fuel economy, and BYD's EVs are gaining traction in Nigeria's developing charging infrastructure
- B2B wholesale options: DriveSino offers competitive wholesale pricing for Nigerian dealers and fleet buyers
Shipping from China to Nigeria
3 ports serving Nigeria
Freight from $4,125 USD
DriveSino ships vehicles from major Chinese export ports to Nigeria's three main commercial ports. Port options and shipping data:
| Port | Freight (USD) | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
| Lagos (Apapa) | $4,125 | 27–39 days |
| Tin Can Island | $4,125 | 27–39 days |
| Onne (Port Harcourt) | $4,290 | 28–40 days |
* Rates are estimates and vary by season and cargo type. Shipping methods: RoRo (roll-on/roll-off) preferred for standard vehicles; container shipping for high-value or multiple vehicles.
Import Duties & Taxes for Nigeria
Import duties and taxes for vehicles entering Nigeria are calculated on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value:
- Import duty: Approximately 35% of CIF value for used vehicles [VERIFY — duty rates change frequently]
- VAT: 7.5% on the CIF value plus import duty
- Levy: Various levies including ECOWAS levy (0.5%) and other statutory charges
- Age restriction: Vehicles must be less than 10–12 years old (varies by policy)
- Total estimated taxes: Typically 50–70% of CIF value depending on vehicle type and engine size
Nigeria uses the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) valuation system. DriveSino provides all necessary export documentation to support your customs clearance process.
Required Documents & Compliance
Provided by DriveSino (Export Side)
DriveSino provides all export-side documentation for shipping from China to Nigeria:
- Certificate of Origin — Proves vehicle was manufactured in China
- Bill of Lading — Shipping document from the carrier
- Commercial Invoice — Transaction value and vehicle details
- Export Customs Declaration — Filed with Chinese customs
- Vehicle Title/Certificate — Proof of ownership
Import-side requirements in Nigeria include: Form M, PAAR (Pre-Arrival Assessment Report), SONCAP for some vehicle types, and payment of applicable duties. DriveSino can refer you to trusted customs agents in Nigeria for import clearance.
Import-Side Requirements
Import requirements vary by country. DriveSino advises on Nigeria-specific regulations and can connect you with trusted customs agents at the destination port.
Ask about NigeriaUnderstanding export documentation is key to a smooth import. Visit our Knowledge Hub for detailed explanations:
How to Import a Car from China to Nigeria
- Browse inventory: Explore our selection of export-ready vehicles from China — all with real photos and inspection reports
- Request a quote: Contact us via WhatsApp or email with your preferred vehicle and destination port (Lagos, Tin Can Island, or Onne)
- Confirm and pay: A sales contract is issued. Payment by international bank transfer
- Export documentation: We prepare all Chinese export documents (Certificate of Origin, Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, customs declaration)
- Shipping: Your vehicle is loaded at Shanghai, Guangzhou, or Ningbo port and shipped to Nigeria via RoRo or container
- Transit & tracking: 27–39 days sea transit. We provide Bill of Lading and regular tracking updates
- Customs clearance: We support your customs clearance at the Nigerian port with full documentation
- Delivery: After clearance, arrange inland transport to your location across Nigeria
Tips for Importing to Nigeria
- Verify the vehicle's age meets Nigeria's import restrictions — vehicles over 10–12 years old may be refused entry
- Factor in total landed cost: vehicle price + shipping + insurance + duty (approx 50–70%) + port charges
- Use the DriveSino cost calculator on each listing for an instant total estimate
- Work with a registered customs agent in Nigeria to navigate Form M and PAAR processes
- Consider shipping multiple vehicles in a container for lower per-unit costs if you're a dealer
Related reading
How to Avoid Scams When Importing Cars from ChinaImporting Cars from China to Nigeria — FAQ
How long does it take to ship a car from China to Nigeria?
Shipping from China to Nigeria takes 27–39 days depending on the destination port. Lagos (Apapa) and Tin Can Island have similar transit times. Onne (Port Harcourt) adds approximately 1–2 days. Total door-to-door time including documentation and customs clearance is typically 45–60 days.
How much does it cost to import a car from China to Nigeria?
Total cost includes: vehicle price (FOB China), shipping freight from $4,125 USD, export handling fees ($835 fixed), import duty (~35% of CIF), VAT (7.5%), and port charges. A typical $15,000 vehicle's total landed cost in Nigeria is approximately $25,000–$30,000. Use our cost calculator for an instant estimate.
What Chinese cars are most popular in Nigeria?
The most popular Chinese vehicles in Nigeria include Haval H6 and Jolion SUVs, Geely Monjaro and Coolray, Changan CS35 and CS75, GWM Poer pickup trucks, and BYD Atto 3 (electric). SUVs are particularly in demand. See our best Chinese cars to import guide.
Can I import a right-hand drive car from China to Nigeria?
Nigeria drives on the right, so left-hand drive (LHD) vehicles from China are suitable. Most Chinese manufacturers produce LHD vehicles as standard. For special cases, some brands offer RHD variants for markets like South Africa and the UK.
What is the age limit for importing cars to Nigeria?
Nigeria restricts imports of used vehicles to those under 10–12 years old (exact limit varies by policy). Always verify the current age restriction before purchasing. DriveSino primarily exports relatively new vehicles (2018 or newer), so age restrictions rarely apply.
How do I pay for a car imported from China to Nigeria?
DriveSino accepts payment via international bank transfer (T/T). A formal sales contract is provided before any payment. Credit cards and PayPal are not accepted for vehicle purchases due to transaction values. For B2B bulk orders, alternative payment terms can be discussed.
Knowledge Hub
Detailed answers to common questions about importing cars from China
Ready to Import a Car to Nigeria?
Contact us for a personalized quote. We handle vehicle sourcing, export documentation, shipping, and delivery.