How to Clear Cars in Nigeria: A Comprehensive Guide

If you are planning to import a car into Nigeria or have just bought one, you will need to go through the process of clearing it. Clearing a car in Nigeria can be a daunting task, especially for first-time importers, but with the right information and guidance, it can be a smooth and hassle-free experience. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to clear cars in Nigeria, including the necessary documents, procedures, and costs involved.

Understanding the Import Duty

Before you can clear your car, you need to understand the import duty fees. The Nigerian government charges an import duty fee on all imported goods, including vehicles. The duty fee is based on the value of the car and can range from 35% to 70% of the car's value. You can get an estimate of the import duty fee by using the Nigerian Customs Duty Calculator.

Obtaining the Necessary Documents

To clear your car, you will need to obtain the following documents:

1. Bill of lading
2. Original vehicle registration papers
3. Original purchase invoice
4. Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) Single Goods Declaration (SGD) form
5. Insurance certificate
6. Roadworthiness certificate
7. Tax Identification Number (TIN)

You can obtain the SGD form from the Nigerian Customs Service website or at any Customs office. The insurance and roadworthiness certificates can be obtained from any certified insurance or testing center. You will also need to get a TIN from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).

Hiring a Clearing Agent

To ensure a smooth and seamless clearing process, it is recommended that you hire a clearing agent. A clearing agent is a licensed professional who is familiar with the procedures and requirements for clearing goods from Nigerian Customs. They can handle all the paperwork and processes on your behalf and ensure that your car is cleared in a timely and efficient manner.

Paying the Import Duty Fees

Once you have obtained all the necessary documents and hired a clearing agent, you will need to pay the import duty fees. You can do this at any designated bank or online through the Nigerian Customs Service portal. You will need to provide the SGD form, original purchase invoice, and other necessary documents to complete the payment process.

Inspection and Valuation

After you have paid the import duty fees, your car will be subjected to inspection and valuation by the Nigerian Customs Service. This is to determine the value of the car and ensure that it meets the required standards for roadworthiness and safety. The inspection process can take up to several days, depending on the availability of the Customs officers.

Obtaining the Release Order

Once your car has passed the inspection and valuation, you will need to obtain a release order from the Nigerian Customs Service. This is a document that certifies that your car has been cleared and can be released to you. You will need to provide the release order to the shipping company or agent to enable them to release your car to you.

Registering Your Car

After you have obtained the release order, you will need to register your car with the Nigerian Road Safety Commission (FRSC). This involves obtaining a new registration number, number plates, and a vehicle license. You will also need to obtain a third-party insurance policy for your car.

Conclusion

Clearing a car in Nigeria can be a complex process, but with the right information and guidance, it can be a smooth and hassle-free experience. By understanding the import duty fees, obtaining the necessary documents, hiring a clearing agent, paying the import duty fees, going through inspection and valuation, obtaining the release order, and registering your car, you can be confident of a successful clearing process.

FAQs

1. What is the import duty fee for cars in Nigeria?
   The import duty fee for cars in Nigeria can range from 35% to 70% of the car's value.

2. What documents do I need to clear my car in Nigeria?
   You will need to obtain the Bill of lading, original vehicle registration papers, original purchase invoice, Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) Single Goods Declaration (SGD) form, insurance certificate, roadworthiness certificate, and Tax Identification Number (TIN).

3. Can I clear my car without a clearing agent?
   No, it is recommended that you hire a clearing agent to ensure a smooth and seamless clearing process.

4. How long does the inspection and valuation process take?
   The inspection process can take up to several days, depending on the availability of the Customs officers.

5. What do I need to do after obtaining the release order?
   After obtaining the release order, you will need to register your car with the Nigerian Road Safety Commission (FRSC) and obtain a new registration number, number plates, and a vehicle license.