Step-by-Step Guide to Vehicle Customs Clearance in Nigeria (2025)

Clearing a vehicle through customs in Nigeria can feel overwhelming if you’re new to the process. From duties and documents to finding a licensed customs clearing agent in Nigeria, there’s a lot to consider.

At Cargonaija, we make vehicle import customs clearance in Nigeria simple, transparent, and stress-free. Whether you’re importing a Tokunbo car, SUV, or truck, our car clearing agents in Lagos guarantee clearance within 5 working days.

Step 1: Obtain the Required Documents

Before beginning the vehicle clearance process in Nigeria, make sure you have:

• Bill of Lading (BL): Document from the shipping line confirming your shipment.

• Form M: Import declaration form processed through your bank.

• PAAR Report (Pre-Arrival Assessment Report): Issued by Nigeria Customs Service.

• DTI Print: Customs declaration form.

• Clearance Letter: Authorisation for your licensed agent to act on your behalf.

👉 Don’t worry — our team helps you handle these documents so you avoid mistakes or delays.

Step 2: Pay Applicable Customs Duty

One of the most common questions importers ask is:
“How much does it cost to clear a car in Nigeria?”

The answer depends on your vehicle’s type, year, and engine capacity. Below are 2025 estimates for vehicle customs duty in Nigeria:

⚠️ Important Note: These prices are for indicative purposes only. Customs duty and charges in Nigeria change frequently. Please call us or email us for the current going rate for your vehicle clearance.

Step 3: Choose a Licensed Customs Clearing Agent

Not all agents are genuine. Choosing the wrong person could cost you delays, extra payments, or even cargo seizure. With Cargonaija, you’re assured of working with licensed customs clearing agents in Lagos and across Nigeria.

• ✅ Transparent duty assessment

• ✅ 5-day vehicle clearance guarantee

• ✅ Avoid demurrage & hidden charges

• ✅ Support for both RoRo vehicle clearing and containerized imports

Step 4: Vehicle Release and Collection

Once duties and fees are settled, Nigeria Customs will release your car. From there, your car clearing agent in Lagos handles gate passes, terminal fees, and documentation before delivery.

We also assist with onward delivery if required.

Learn more about our complete customs clearance services in Nigeria for vehicles, containers, and air cargo

FAQs on Vehicle Clearance in Nigeria

Q: How long does it take to clear a vehicle in Nigeria?
A: With Cargonaija, cars are cleared in 5 working days at Lagos ports.

Q: Do you handle RoRo vehicle clearance in Nigeria?
A: Yes, we clear both RoRo vehicles and container shipments.

Q: What is the average cost of clearing a car in 2025?
A: Between ₦2.5m – ₦3m depending on the type and size. Always confirm current rates with us.

Q: Can I clear my car without a licensed agent?
A: No. Only licensed customs clearing agents in Nigeria are authorised to process vehicle clearance.

⚠️ Important Payment Disclaimer

To avoid being scammed, never make payment to any staff’s personal account. If you do so, you could be scammed, and Cargonaija will not take responsibility for it.

👉 All payments for customs clearance or any other service with Cargonaija must only be made into the company’s official business account below:

Bank: UBA
Account Name: NGCARGONAIJA LIMITED

❌ Never pay into any other account apart from the above.

Contact Cargonaija Today

📍 Office: No. 31 Olaiya Street, Mafoluku, Lagos, Nigeria
📞 Nigeria: 07049450575 | 09046181274
📞 UK: 02039045521
📧 Email: info@cargonaija.com

Cargonaija – Your Trusted Partner for Vehicle Customs Clearance in Nigeria.