Short answer: You usually ship a car to Nigeria by RoRo (roll-on/roll-off) from Hamburg to Lagos. The roadworthy vehicle rolls on board and travels across the North Sea, through the English Channel and along the West African Atlantic coast to the Lagos area. Lagos is West Africa’s largest vehicle import market. Nigeria has its own import regulations for second-hand vehicles, covering aspects such as the vehicle’s age and duties. Check that these are up to date before purchasing and booking, and have your commercial invoice, bill of lading, vehicle documents and proof of export to hand.
The key points in 5 points
- RoRo is the standard for roadworthy vehicles bound for Nigeria.
- The port of destination is Lagos including the port areas of Apapa and Tin Can Island.
- Second-hand cars are subject to import regulations – Check age and tax liabilities in advance.
- Heavy loads are also possible: Lorries, construction machinery and project cargo.
- Documents complete Required documents: commercial invoice, B/L, vehicle documents, proof of export.
Why is Lagos the most important port of destination for vehicles?
Lagos is Nigeria’s economic hub and the largest transhipment centre for vehicle imports in West Africa. The ports in the Lagos area, notably Apapa and Tin Can Island, have Ro-Ro terminals where cars, lorries and machinery are handled. Many of the vehicles arriving here are subsequently resold within the country or exported to neighbouring markets.
What is the route from Hamburg to Lagos?
From Hamburg, the sea route takes you across the North Sea and the English Channel into the Atlantic, and then along the West African coast to Lagos. The transit time depends on the timetable, stopovers and clearance procedures at the port of destination – you should allow for several weeks, including pre- and post-carriage. You can find an overview of other ports and routes in the region in our article on Shipping to West Africa.
What types of cargo can you ship to Nigeria?
As well as used cars, typical consignments include lorries, vans, buses, construction machinery and project cargo. Roadworthy vehicles are transported by RoRo. A flat rack is suitable for non-roadworthy or oversized goods, whilst a container is suitable for sensitive vehicles or additional cargo. The most suitable option depends on the dimensions, weight and condition of the cargo.
What documents and customs regulations apply?
The key documents are the commercial invoice, the bill of lading, the vehicle documents and the proof of export. In Germany, exports are processed via the electronic ATLAS export declaration; the basics are explained by the German customs. Nigeria regulates the import of second-hand vehicles through, amongst other things, rules on vehicle age and import duties. These rules are subject to change – so please check the latest information with Nigerian Customs or your local recipient before purchasing and booking. Our guide shows you exactly what you need to prepare: Checklist for RoRo documents.
What practical tips can make shipping easier?
Plan with a margin for error and book well in advance. Remove any personal belongings, document the condition of the vehicle with photographs, and ensure that the chassis number and details match across all documents. Clarify in advance who will handle customs clearance in Lagos. ODS Orient has been operating as a freight forwarder in Hamburg since 1974 and organises Ro-Ro, flat-rack and container shipments worldwide.
FAQ
How long does shipping from Hamburg to Lagos take?
The sea voyage along the West African coast usually takes several weeks. On top of this, there is the pre- and post-carriage, as well as customs clearance.
Is RoRo or container shipping better?
Ro-Ro is the standard for roadworthy vehicles. A container is a good option if the vehicle is not roadworthy or if additional protection is required.
Am I allowed to import any second-hand vehicle into Nigeria?
Not necessarily. Nigeria has import regulations regarding the age of vehicles and duties. Be sure to check the current conditions before making a purchase.
What ports are there in the Lagos area?
The main port areas are Apapa and Tin Can Island, each of which has Ro-Ro terminals.
Can I also ship construction machinery or lorries?
Yes. Roadworthy machinery is transported by Ro-Ro, whilst oversized or non-roadworthy cargo is carried on flat racks.
Who is responsible for exports in Germany?
The export is processed via the ATLAS export declaration. A freight forwarder can take care of this step for you.
All the information in this article has been carefully researched, but is subject to change at any time. ODS Orient accepts no liability for the timeliness, accuracy or completeness of the information provided. Please contact us directly for a no-obligation quote.
