The Real Cost of Clearing an Imported Car in Nigeria (2026 Guide)
Many Nigerian dealers lose money on imported cars not because they bought badly, but because they underestimated the cost of clearing the vehicle. If you price a car based only on its purchase price abroad, you will almost always come up short. Here is a realistic breakdown of what clearing actually costs in 2026.
1. Customs duty and levies
Customs duty on used vehicles is calculated on the vehicle's assessed value, not what you paid for it. On top of the base duty you should expect:
- Import duty
- Levy and surcharge
- VAT on the assessed value
- ETLS (ECOWAS) charge
Because duty is based on the customs valuation, two dealers importing the same model can pay different amounts. Always confirm the current tariff for your exact make, model, and year before you commit.
2. Terminal and port charges
Once the car lands, the terminal and shipping line collect their own fees:
- Shipping line / delivery order charges
- Terminal handling charges
- Storage / demurrage if the car is not cleared quickly
Demurrage is the silent killer. Every extra day your car sits uncleared adds cost, so speed matters.
3. Clearing agent and processing fees
Unless you clear cars yourself, your agent's fee covers the paperwork, the C-number, and the physical examination. Get this quoted per vehicle and in writing so it does not creep up after the fact.
4. Transport from the port
Moving the car from Lagos (Tin Can or PTML) to your lot — whether driven or on a carrier — is a real cost, especially for dealers outside Lagos. Factor in fuel, the driver, and any minor repairs the car needs to be lot-ready.
5. The costs dealers forget
- Repairs and detailing to make the car presentable
- Battery, tyres, or minor parts that almost always need attention
- Your own time chasing the process
Putting it together
Add every one of these to your purchase price and you get the car's true landing cost — the number you must price above to make a profit. Skip any line item and your margin quietly disappears.
The dealers who stay profitable are the ones who track landing cost for every single vehicle, not just a rough estimate in their head. That is exactly what DealerBoss is built for: log the purchase price and every clearing expense against each car, and always know your real cost and your real profit before you agree a price.