Ship Car to Lagos with Reliable International Transport
Car Shipping Lagos
Lagos, the capital of Nigeria, is a modern city. As the financial and commercial center of Nigeria, the condition of the roads here has improved through the years. While the country is still grappling with political and religious tensions, the demand for vehicle imports is increasing. One reason may be an overreliance on public transport, especially the waterways and the railways. This does not give people the moving and commuting flexibility they require. So here, owning a private vehicle no longer remains a luxury or status symbol; instead, having a car for commuting quickly is essential. Whether you have come to Nigeria on an extended visit or plan to be a permanent resident here, importing your vehicle should become a priority.
Estimated Shipping Costs
The cost to ship a car from the USA to Lagos varies based on the shipping method, vehicle size, and departure port. On average, Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) shipping ranges from $1,200 to $1,650, while container shipping can start at $1,100 and go higher depending on the specifics.
Required Documentation
To import a car into Nigeria, the following documents are typically required:
- Original Vehicle Title
- Bill of Lading
- Commercial Invoice
- Form M
- Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR)
- Valid Identification (e.g., International Passport)
Ensuring all documentation is accurate and complete is crucial to avoid delays during customs clearance.
Cost & Time Examples For Dispatching a Car to Lagos
| To/From | Ground | Ocean | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lagos to (New York port) to New York, NY | $275 | $3000 | 5+31 days |
| Local Delivery to (California port) to Los Angeles | $350 | $3800 | 5+38 days |
| City Limits to (New York port) to Boston, MA | $400 | $3000 | 5+31 days |
| Las Vegas, NV to (California port) to the Area | $450 | $3800 | 5+38 days |
| Lagos to (California port) to Seattle, WA | $550 | $3800 | 6+38 days |
| Local Delivery to (New York port) to Detroit, MI | $575 | $3000 | 6+31 days |
| Chicago, IL to (New York port) to the Area | $675 | $3000 | 6+31 days |
| Denver, CO to (California port) to the City | $775 | $3800 | 7+38 days |
| Memphis, TN to (New York port) to the Area | $800 | $3000 | 6+31 days |
| Dallas, TX to (California port) to Lagos | $1,025 | $3800 | 7+38 days |
*Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and the type of vehicle.
*Save on ground transport costs by delivering the vehicle to the nearest port.
*Allow an additional ten days to process the documents.
*Prices are for one car in a dedicated 20ft container. This is the safest and most reliable way to transport a vehicle internationally. Other items may be included in the container to help save you money when moving.
*The RoRo (roll on, roll off) method is less expensive, and shipments can be completed in fewer days. Contact us now for a free RoRo quote.
What does importing Autos entail in Lagos?
Despite the bulk of documentation required during the import process, it is straightforward and hassle-free. Your vehicle will enter the country at the port here. When you are involved in the services of an established international vehicle carrier company like our A1 Auto Transport Services, we will take care of all the finer points so that you do not need to worry about it. We know what is involved since we have successfully imported numerous vehicles to Nigeria. You can be sure that we will get the customs cleared in time for the delivery of the car to your doorstep.
The documents that you will need to provide include:
- Car title, insurance documents.
- Passport/ownership proof.
- Lading bill.
- There are no loans on the car.
- Emission checks, a certificate for roadworthiness.
- Chassis number, manufacturer, and model details.
However, your vehicle must be under eight years old; otherwise, the Nigerian Customs Service laws prevent its import.
Transport and vehicle delivery
Once you have paid the customs duty at the US port and at Lagos, your vehicle might be tested for emissions here. For safe shipping, we offer two different methods for shipping your cars:
- Enclosed are 20- to 40-foot containers. Make your choice, and you can include various vehicle accessories and even household goods in the container for transit. This makes it a complete value-for-money proposition.
- Roll on/off method: Your car will be driven over ramps onto the ship and harnessed for safety. When it reaches its destination, it will be driven down, and after you clear the paperwork and pay the duties, it will be handed over to you.
If you need to know more about shipping personal vehicles to Lagos or for customs duty details, please explore the Embassy of Nigeria.
Customs Duties and Taxes
Importing a vehicle into Nigeria incurs several charges:
- Import Duty: 20% of the vehicle's value
- Levy: 15%
- Value Added Tax (VAT): 7.5%
- Surcharge: 7%
- ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) Levy: 0.5%
These percentages are applied to the vehicle's assessed value, and it's important to budget accordingly.
Vehicle Age Restrictions
Nigeria enforces age restrictions on imported vehicles. Generally, cars older than 15 years from the date of manufacture are prohibited from importation. Ensuring your vehicle meets this criterion is essential to comply with Nigerian import regulations.
Final Thoughts
Successfully shipping a car to Lagos requires careful planning and adherence to Nigerian import regulations. Understanding the associated costs, preparing the necessary documentation, and complying with customs duties and vehicle age restrictions can facilitate a smooth import process. Engaging with experienced shipping and customs professionals can further streamline the experience, ensuring your vehicle arrives safely and legally in Nigeria.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a car from the U.S. to Lagos, Nigeria?
Shipping a car to Lagos typically costs between $1,500 and $6,500. Price depends on shipping method (RoRo vs container), vehicle size, U.S. port, and fuel surcharges. RoRo is usually the lowest-cost option, while container shipping adds protection but increases price. SUVs and trucks cost more due to size and weight. For detailed pricing factors, see the international car shipping rates calculator.
How long does it take to ship a car to Lagos from the U.S.?
Transit time to Lagos averages 4 to 7 weeks. This includes U.S. port processing, ocean transit, and arrival handling at Apapa Port. East Coast ports are usually faster than West Coast ports. Seasonal congestion, customs clearance, and vessel schedules can extend timelines, especially during peak shipping months.
What shipping methods are available for shipping cars to Nigeria?
The two main options are Roll-on Roll-off (RoRo) and container shipping. RoRo is cost-effective and commonly used for standard vehicles. Container shipping offers added protection and allows personal items but costs more. Choice depends on budget, vehicle value, and security needs. Learn more about methods on the international car shipping by sea page.
What import taxes and duties apply when shipping a car to Lagos?
Nigeria charges 20% import duty, 15% levy, 7.5% VAT, plus smaller surcharges based on the vehicle’s CIF value. Rates vary by engine size, vehicle age, and Nigerian Customs assessments. Import costs are paid upon arrival and must clear before release from port. Accurate documentation helps avoid delays and reassessments.
Can I ship a non-running or inoperable car to Lagos?
Yes, non-running vehicles can be shipped to Lagos, usually via container shipping or RoRo with special handling. Additional costs apply for winching, loading equipment, and port handling. Always disclose vehicle condition in advance to avoid delays or port refusals. See requirements for inoperable auto transport.
What documents are required to ship a car to Lagos, Nigeria?
You typically need the original vehicle title, bill of sale, government-issued ID, and shipping authorization. Nigerian Customs may also require proof of ownership and import declarations. Missing or incorrect paperwork is the leading cause of clearance delays, so documents should be reviewed before export.
Share on Facebook
Share on LinkedIn
Share on Twitter
Google 
Instagram 
Dave C. 
Courtney J. 
Jeff D. 
Maria L. 
