Car Shipping To Nigeria

Shipping Your Vehicle to Nigeria with Ship Cars Ltd

Ship Cars Ltd is your premier partner for hassle-free vehicle shipping to Nigeria. We understand the complexities of international car shipping and are dedicated to providing a seamless, secure, and cost-effective service. This guide will provide you with comprehensive information to ensure your vehicle arrives safely in Lagos, Nigeria.

Our Services: RORO and Container Shipping

We offer two primary methods for shipping your vehicle to Nigeria:

• Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO): This is a cost-effective method where your vehicle is driven directly onto a specialized vessel. It’s a popular choice for operational vehicles.

  • Transit Time: Approximately 24 days.

  • Sailing Frequency: Four times a month.

  • Important Note: Hybrid and electric vehicles are not allowed via RORO.

• Container Shipping: For greater flexibility and security, we offer both shared and dedicated container Shipping services.

  • Transit Time: Approximately 24 days.

  • Sailing Frequency: Four times a month.

  • Hybrid & Electric Vehicles: Allowed in containers. Electric vehicles typically incur a hazard surcharge of £295.

  • Vehicle Condition: Vehicles do not need to be working for container shipping.

  • [Link to Container Shipping Page]: For more details, visit our international container shipping page.

What’s Not Allowed or Restricted?

 

Certain items and vehicle types have restrictions or are prohibited for shipping to Nigeria.

• Prohibited Items: Personal belongings, hazardous materials, and any items not declared will not be permitted.

• Vehicle Restrictions:

  • Hybrid and electric vehicles are not allowed via RORO.

  • Vehicles older than 10 years may have limitations for comprehensive insurance cover.

Why Ship Your Vehicle to Lagos?

Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub, is a major destination for imported vehicles. Many individuals and businesses import cars for various reasons:

• Personal Use: To facilitate transportation within the bustling city and for personal needs.

• Business and Commerce: Vehicles are essential for businesses operating in Nigeria, from logistics to personal transport for employees.

• Resale Market: Nigeria has a strong market for used vehicles, making it a viable option for those looking to import and sell cars.

• Transfer of Residence: Individuals relocating to Nigeria often ship their vehicles to maintain their mobility.

Destination Rules and Regulations for Nigeria

Navigating destination rules is vital for a successful import. It is crucial to consult the official Nigerian authorities for the most up-to-date information.

Rules for Permanent Export, Transfer of Residence, and Temporary Import

 

The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) governs the importation of vehicles. Please refer to their official website for detailed regulations.

• Permanent Export (from UK perspective): When exporting a vehicle permanently from the UK, you will need to notify HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

• Transfer of Residence (To Nigeria): Nigeria has specific rules for individuals transferring their residence, which may allow for duty exemptions on personal vehicles under certain conditions. This often requires proof of residency and prior ownership of the vehicle.

• Temporary Import: Temporary importation of vehicles is generally for specific purposes (e.g., tourism, specific events) and usually involves bonds or guarantees to ensure the vehicle is re-exported.

Official Authority Links:

• Nigerian Customs Service (NCS): While a direct link to specific vehicle import rules can be difficult to pinpoint on government websites, the NCS is the primary authority. You may need to navigate their site or contact them directly for the most current directives. [Note: Direct links to specific government pages can change; always verify on the official NCS website.]

• HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) – UK: For UK export requirements, refer to the HMRC website.

Inspection and Permit Requirements

• Pre-shipment Inspection: Vehicles imported into Nigeria are often subject to inspection. It is essential to be aware of any required pre-shipment inspections that might need to be arranged before the vehicle leaves the UK or upon arrival in Lagos.

• Import Duty and Tariffs: Nigeria has specific import duties and tariffs on vehicles. These vary based on the vehicle’s age, type, and engine size.

• Age Restriction: Vehicles older than a certain age are often prohibited from import. Currently, vehicles older than 15 years are generally not allowed. (It’s vital to verify this with the NCS as regulations can change).

Documentation Requirements

Proper documentation is essential for both UK export and Nigerian import.

UK Paperwork:

1. V5C Registration Document: Proof of ownership.

2. Proof of Identity: Passport or driver’s license.

3. Bill of Lading/Sea Waybill: Issued by the shipping company.

4. Export Declaration: If applicable, depending on the value and type of vehicle.

5. Vehicle Condition Report: If opting for comprehensive insurance.

Nigerian Port Paperwork:

1. Import Duty and Tax Payments: Proof of payment for all applicable duties and taxes.

2. Bill of Lading/Sea Waybill: Original copy.

3. Import Declaration Form (IDF): This is a mandatory requirement for all imports.

4. Nigerian Customs Clearance Certificate (NCCC): Issued after customs verification.

5. Vehicle Registration Documents: Original V5C.

6. Proof of Ownership: Invoices or purchase agreements.

7. Passport and Visa: For personal imports.

8. Transfer of Residence Documents: If applicable, to claim any concessions.

Duty and Tax in Nigeria

Import duties and taxes in Nigeria are significant and are calculated based on the vehicle’s value, age, and type. The rates can vary, and it is crucial to get an accurate estimate from the Nigerian Customs Service or a trusted clearing agent in Nigeria. These costs can include:

• Import Duty: A percentage of the vehicle’s CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value.

• Ecowas Levy: A levy applied to goods imported from outside the ECOWAS region.

• Value Added Tax (VAT): Applied to the sum of the CIF value, duty, and other applicable charges.

• Other Port Charges: Terminal handling fees, customs examination fees, etc.

Please note: The exact percentages and applicable charges are subject to change by the Nigerian government. We advise consulting with a local clearing agent in Lagos for the most precise and up-to-date figures.

Collection and Delivery in the UK

Ship Cars Ltd offers flexible collection options for your vehicle within the UK:

• Transporter Collection: We can arrange for your vehicle to be collected on a transporter, ensuring it reaches our port safely without adding mileage.

• Trade Plate Driver: If your vehicle is fully operational and has a valid MOT, we can arrange for it to be driven to our port by one of our experienced drivers.

Insurance and Risk Coverage

We offer comprehensive insurance options to protect your investment:

• Total Loss Coverage (Fire/Water Damage): Costs 1% of the vehicle’s value + shipping cost.

• Comprehensive Cover: Costs 1.5% of the vehicle’s value + shipping cost. This covers cosmetic damage as well.

  • Eligibility: Vehicles cannot be older than 10 years for comprehensive cover.

  • Condition Report: A condition report is required for comprehensive cover. This is free of charge if we collect your vehicle. If you deliver the vehicle to us, there will be a £35 charge for the condition report.

Cost Breakdown

The total cost of shipping your vehicle to Nigeria is influenced by several factors:

• Shipping Method: RORO is generally more economical than container shipping.

• Vehicle Size: Larger vehicles incur higher costs.

• Port Fees: Charges levied by the UK port of departure and the Nigerian port of arrival.

• Insurance: The cost depends on the level of cover selected.

• Documentation Fees: Costs associated with preparing and processing necessary paperwork.

• Collection/Delivery: If you opt for our UK collection services.

• Clearing Agent Fees: In Nigeria, a clearing agent will charge fees for customs brokerage and processing.

Pricing Examples:

• Small Golf-sized Car: £995 (Shared Container)

• Large Car (e.g., Range Rover): £1285 (Dedicated Container)

Note: These prices are indicative and may vary based on specific vehicle dimensions and current market rates.

Ship Cars Ltd is committed to providing you with the most reliable and transparent car shipping service to Nigeria. Contact us today to get a personalised quote and to discuss your specific shipping needs.

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