Vehicle Import Requirements
- Age Restriction: Only vehicles less than 15 years from the year of manufacture are permitted for import.
- Condition: Both new and used vehicles can be imported. Salvaged/accidented vehicles may face restrictions.
- Prohibited Vehicles: Vehicles not meeting Nigerian emission or safety standards.
Step-by-Step Import Procedure
1. Importer Registration
- Register with CAC, NRS (TIN), and the Nigeria Customs Portal.
2. Check HS Code & Tariff Rate
- Motor cars (8703), trucks (8704), buses (8702).
- Customs duty varies by type, engine capacity, and year.
3. Obtain Form M
- Mandatory for all vehicle imports above $10,000.
4. Shipping & Pre-Arrival Documentation
- Bill of Lading / Airway Bill.
- Proforma Invoice.
- Combined Certificate of Value & Origin (CCVO).
5. Customs Clearance
- File declaration via NICIS II.
- Pay duties, VAT, and levies.
- Risk channelling (green/yellow/red lane).
6. Inspection & Valuation
- Vehicles are inspected at the port by Customs.
- Valuation applied (often based on year, make, model, and engine size).
7. Release & Delivery
- Once cleared, the vehicle will be released to the importer.
Special Cases
- Diplomatic Vehicles – duty exemptions.
- CKD/SKD (Completely Knocked Down / Semi-Knocked Down) Imports – for assembly plants, lower duty rates.
- Commercial Vehicles (buses, trucks) – lower duties compared to private cars.
Required Documents
- Form M
- Proforma Invoice
- Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
- CCVO
- Packing List
- Insurance Certificate
- Product Certificate (if required)
Challenges & Risks
- Smuggling and undervaluation.
- Port congestion/demurrage costs.
- Exchange rate fluctuations affect duty.