How to Import Used Trucks to Nigeria: A Complete Guide

The following is a complete guide to the export process of used goods from China to Africa via Delivered to Door (DDP). Juhai International Logistics, Xiaowang, combines the latest policies, transportation regulations, and practical experience of African countries to provide a comprehensive solution covering cost, timeliness, and risk management:

1.1 Transportation Methods and Cost Differences

• Sea Freight (Mainstream Choice)

  • Full Container Load (FCL) (20' GP): Basic ocean freight is approximately $2,350 - $3,200 (Shenzhen to Apapa/Tincan Port, Lagos), including Terminal Handling Charges (THC) and documentation fees. For used vehicles, roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) shipping costs are approximately ¥6,500 - ¥8,000 / unit, including securing charges.

  • Less than Container Load (LCL): Charged per cubic meter (CBM), approximately $89 - $175 / CBM, including consolidation fee and customs declaration fee. Suitable for used furniture, equipment, etc., with volume < 15 CBM.

  • Lead Time: 35-45 days to main Nigerian ports (Lagos/Port Harcourt). Lead times to other West African ports may vary.

• Air Freight (Urgent Cargo)

  • Cost: Approximately ¥17 - ¥32 / kilogram from Guangzhou to Lagos/Abuja, including fuel surcharge.

  • Lead Time: 7-15 days direct to major cities, suitable for high-value used electronics or urgent spare parts.

1.2 DDP Cost Breakdown and Optimization

• Tax and Duty Calculation

  • Customs Clearing Agency Fee: ₦150,000 - ₦300,000 per shipment (includes document pre-assessment, application for necessary certifications).

  • Last-Mile Delivery Fee: Approximately ₦80,000 - ₦120,000 within metropolitan Lagos; deliveries to inland areas (e.g., Kano) may incur additional charges of ₦50,000 - ₦80,000.

  • Import Duty: Rates vary significantly by product category under the Common External Tariff (CET). Used vehicles typically attract duties; rates should be verified with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).

  • Value Added Tax (VAT): Standard rate is 7.5%. Calculated on the CIF value (Cost, Insurance, and Freight).

• Additional Charges: May include port storage demurrage if clearance is delayed, handling fees, and potential regulatory agency fees (e.g., SON, NAFDAC for applicable goods).

• Cost Illustration

  • Example: A 20ft container of used engineering machinery (Value: $50,000 USD). Estimated Total Cost ≈ Ocean Freight $3,000 + Import Duty (rate dependent) + VAT (7.5% on CIF) + Clearing Fee ₦200,000 + Delivery Fee ₦100,000. Total cost in Naira will vary based on current exchange rates and exact duty calculations.

2. Detailed 12-Step End-to-End Process

Phase 1: Qualification Verification & Document Preparation (7-10 Days)

• Exporter Qualification Confirmation

  • Enterprises must possess the requisite export licenses from relevant Nigerian authorities (e.g., NCS, SONCAP for regulated products). Individual exporters typically require a licensed Clearing Agent.

• Destination Country Compliance Check

  • Verify restrictions on used goods by consulting the latest guidelines from the Nigeria Customs Service and other relevant regulatory bodies (e.g., National Automotive Design and Development Council - NADDC for vehicles). Certain used items may be prohibited or require special permits.

• Document Checklist

  • Mandatory Documents: Commercial Invoice (clearly stating DDP terms), Packing List, Certificate of Origin (often required), Pre-Shipment Inspection Report/Assessment Report (e.g., for used vehicles).

  • Specific Documents: Used equipment may require safety data, used textiles may require fumigation certificates, used vehicles require valid proof of ownership and relevant VIN verification.

Phase 2: Domestic Export Operations (3-5 Working Days)

• Customs Declaration

  • Submit declarations through the Nigerian Customs Integrated System (NICIS). Ensure accurate HS code classification and data alignment with shipping manifests to minimize queries.

• Dangerous Goods Declaration (If Applicable)

  • Items like used batteries or oil-containing equipment must be declared according to relevant regulations (e.g., UN codes). Submit required safety documentation. Additional surcharges apply.

Phase 3: International Transportation & Tracking

• End-to-End Visibility

  • Request GPS tracking and environmental monitoring (e.g., temperature ≤30°C, humidity ≤60%) from the logistics provider. Submit pre-clearance documentation pack to the destination port agent 48 hours before arrival.

• Packing and Securing Standards

  • Used vehicles: Batteries often disconnected, tires may be deflated, secured within containers using steel frames and dunnage. Used furniture: should be shrink-wrapped and/or crated, with external markings labeled "USED GOODS".

Phase 4: Destination Port Clearance & Tax Payment (5-15 Working Days)

• Expedited Clearance Strategy

  • Utilize reputable licensed Clearing Agents to pre-audit documents, focusing on: correct HS codes, certificate numbers, and expiry dates. Be aware of potential examinations.

• Duty Optimization Tips

  • Utilize applicable trade agreements (e.g., ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme - ETLS, AfCFTA) where eligible, requiring correct Certificate of Origin. Ensure invoices are prepared correctly to support claims.

Phase 5: Inland Delivery & Acceptance (3-10 Days)

• Last-Mile Logistics

  • Metropolitan delivery via flatbed truck. For destinations outside port cities, costs and lead times increase significantly due to trans-shipment and inland haulage.

• Acceptance Protocol

  • The consignee must verify the goods for external damage and label integrity, then sign a Received in Good Condition acknowledgment. Any damage must be reported to the logistics provider within 24 hours to initiate insurance claims.

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