If you plan to export cars from China to Nigeria, timing is everything. Whether you’re buying brand-new vehicles or used cars, the total delivery time depends on several factors, including order processing, shipping method, and customs procedures. On average, the entire car delivery process takes between 35 to 60 days from order confirmation to arrival at the Nigerian port.
Step 1: Order Confirmation (3–7 Days)
Once you’ve chosen your preferred car model and signed the purchase agreement, your exporter will issue a Proforma Invoice (PI) and confirm your payment. This stage typically takes about 3 to 7 days, depending on the speed of payment confirmation and vehicle availability in the exporter’s stockyard.
If the car is already in inventory, the car delivery process moves faster. However, if it needs to be sourced from a factory or another city, expect an extra few days.
Step 2: Vehicle Preparation and Inspection (5–10 Days)
Before you export cars from China to Nigeria, each vehicle must pass quality checks, cleaning, and documentation. Reliable exporters will provide:
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) verification
- Export inspection certificates
- Photo and video documentation for buyers
During this stage, the car is moved to the nearest port city such as Guangzhou, Shanghai, or Tianjin, ready for shipping.
Step 3: Shipping Booking and Customs Clearance (7–14 Days)
After inspection, your exporter books space on a ship. The most common methods for car shipping from China to Nigeria are:
- RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off): Ideal for large shipments and used cars
- Container Shipping: Safer but slightly more expensive
Customs clearance in China usually takes 5 to 7 days, depending on port congestion. Professional exporters who regularly export cars from China to Nigeria can often speed up this stage due to established relationships with port authorities.
Step 4: Sea Transportation (25–35 Days)
The sea journey is the longest part of the car shipping time China to Nigeria. Ships typically depart from Chinese ports like Shanghai, Qingdao, or Guangzhou, heading toward Lagos, Tin Can Island, or Port Harcourt.
Here’s an approximate timeline:
- Shanghai to Lagos: 32–35 days
- Guangzhou to Lagos: 28–30 days
- Tianjin to Lagos: 35–40 days
Weather conditions, shipping traffic, and customs inspection in Nigeria may slightly extend the total car delivery process.
Step 5: Nigerian Customs Clearance and Final Pickup (5–10 Days)
Once your cars arrive in Nigeria, importers must handle local customs clearance. This includes:
- Payment of import duties and taxes
- Presentation of Bill of Lading (B/L) and vehicle documents
- Inspection by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS)
Working with a licensed clearing agent ensures smoother clearance and faster delivery. After this, your vehicles can be transported directly to your dealership or buyer.
How to Shorten the Delivery Time
To reduce total delivery time when you export cars from China to Nigeria, follow these tips:
- Choose experienced exporters with a stable shipping schedule
- Confirm vehicle availability before making payment
- Opt for RoRo shipping if cost efficiency and speed matter more than packaging
- Ensure all paperwork and customs forms are correctly filled to avoid delays
Final Timeline Overview
| Stage | Estimated Duration |
|---|---|
| Order Confirmation | 3–7 Days |
| Vehicle Preparation | 5–10 Days |
| Shipping Booking & Customs | 7–14 Days |
| Sea Freight | 25–35 Days |
| Nigerian Clearance | 5–10 Days |
| Total Estimated Time | 35–60 Days |
Conclusion
The total car shipping time from China to Nigeria generally ranges between five to eight weeks, depending on logistics and port activity. By choosing a trustworthy exporter and planning ahead, you can minimize delays and secure smooth delivery for your vehicles.
If you’re ready to export cars from China to Nigeria, partner with an experienced Chinese exporter who offers transparent communication, reliable documentation, and consistent delivery schedules—so every car arrives on time and in perfect condition.
