If you are planning to import a Honda car into Nigeria in 2025, it is very important to understand the cost of clearing Honda cars in Nigeria before your vehicle arrives. Many car buyers make the mistake of only budgeting for the purchase price of the car and forgetting that clearing fees at the port are also a big part of the total cost.
In this complete guide, you will learn everything you need to know about clearing a Honda car in Nigeria including popular models like the Accord, CR-V, Pilot, Civic, Odyssey, and others. We will explain the factors that influence clearing costs, share estimated fees for each model, and answer common questions.
This guide is especially helpful if you live in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, or anywhere in Nigeria and want to import a Honda car without unnecessary stress or hidden costs.
Why Understanding Clearing Costs Is Important
Clearing costs in Nigeria are sometimes almost equal to the purchase price of the car itself, especially for newer models. If you fail to plan for these costs:
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Your car could be stuck at the port and attract demurrage charges.
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You may end up paying more than necessary because of poor planning.
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You could even risk losing the car if you cannot pay the full clearing fees on time.
Honda cars are popular in Nigeria because they are affordable, fuel-efficient, and durable. But since they are imported, they attract import duties, levies, and port charges.
How Clearing Fees Are Calculated in Nigeria
The Nigerian Customs Service determines the clearing cost of a car based on its CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight).
After determining the CIF, the following charges are added:
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Import Duty: 35% of CIF.
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Levy: Usually 0%–35% (Honda cars generally fall under regular vehicles, so this is often minimal).
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VAT: 7.5% of the total amount.
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Additional charges: Shipping company fees, port handling fees, and sometimes inspection charges.
For Honda cars, which are not classified as luxury vehicles, the clearing fees are relatively lower than for brands like Mercedes-Benz or Lexus.
Estimated Cost of Clearing Popular Honda Models in Nigeria (2025)
Below are the estimated clearing costs for some of the most commonly imported Honda models in Nigeria. These estimates are for cars in good condition, under 15 years old, and cleared through Lagos ports.
1. Honda Accord
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Years: 2010–2022
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Estimated clearing cost: ₦1,500,000 – ₦3,500,000
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Notes: The Accord is very popular in Nigeria and has moderate clearing fees because it’s a mid-size sedan.
2. Honda CR-V
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Years: 2010–2022
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Estimated clearing cost: ₦1,800,000 – ₦3,800,000
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Notes: As a compact SUV, the CR-V attracts slightly higher fees than sedans but remains affordable compared to luxury SUVs.
3. Honda Pilot
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Years: 2010–2022
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Estimated clearing cost: ₦2,200,000 – ₦4,200,000
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Notes: The Pilot is a full-size SUV with a larger engine and body, so its clearing cost is higher than the CR-V or Accord.
4. Honda Civic
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Years: 2010–2022
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Estimated clearing cost: ₦1,300,000 – ₦3,000,000
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Notes: The Civic is compact and fuel-efficient, making it one of the more affordable Honda models to clear.
5. Honda Odyssey
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Years: 2010–2022
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Estimated clearing cost: ₦2,000,000 – ₦4,000,000
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Notes: The Odyssey is a minivan and is popular among large families. Its larger size slightly increases port and handling fees.
6. Honda Element
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Years: 2010–2011
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Estimated clearing cost: ₦1,600,000 – ₦2,800,000
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Notes: The Element is a small, boxy SUV with modest clearing costs because of its smaller engine.
7. Honda Crosstour
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Years: 2010–2015
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Estimated clearing cost: ₦1,700,000 – ₦3,200,000
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Notes: The Crosstour combines a sedan and SUV design. Its moderate size keeps fees within an affordable range.
Summary Table: Cost of Clearing Honda Cars in Nigeria (2025)
| Honda Model | Year Range | Estimated Clearing Cost (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| Accord | 2010–2022 | 1,500,000 – 3,500,000 |
| CR-V | 2010–2022 | 1,800,000 – 3,800,000 |
| Pilot | 2010–2022 | 2,200,000 – 4,200,000 |
| Civic | 2010–2022 | 1,300,000 – 3,000,000 |
| Odyssey | 2010–2022 | 2,000,000 – 4,000,000 |
| Element | 2010–2011 | 1,600,000 – 2,800,000 |
| Crosstour | 2010–2015 | 1,700,000 – 3,200,000 |
Factors That Affect the Clearing Cost of Honda Cars
Here are the main factors that determine how much you pay to clear a Honda car in Nigeria:
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Year of manufacture: Newer models have higher CIF values.
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Model: Larger vehicles like Pilot or Odyssey cost more to clear than smaller models like Civic.
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Engine size: Cars with bigger engines attract higher duties.
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Exchange rate: The official naira-to-dollar rate directly affects the CIF calculation.
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Port of entry: Lagos ports (Apapa and Tin Can) are the most common, but rates can vary at Warri or Port Harcourt.
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Condition of the car: Salvaged vehicles may have a lower CIF value but might require additional documentation.
How to Clear a Honda Car in Nigeria: Step-by-Step Process
To avoid stress and unnecessary charges, follow these steps:
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Hire a Licensed Clearing Agent: Always work with an experienced agent.
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Prepare Your Documents: You will need the Bill of Lading, Invoice, Form M, Terminal Delivery Order (TDO), and Evidence of Duty Payment.
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Customs Assessment: Customs officers will determine the CIF and calculate duties.
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Pay All Fees: This includes import duty, VAT, shipping company charges, and port handling fees.
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Inspection and Release: Once fees are paid and the vehicle is inspected, it is released.
Tips to Reduce the Cost of Clearing a Honda Car
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Import slightly older (but not too old) vehicles — usually between 7–10 years — for lower CIF.
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Use a trusted clearing agent who knows how to navigate Customs efficiently.
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Avoid peak shipping seasons when port congestion increases costs.
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Make sure all paperwork is correct and ready before the car arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions About Clearing Honda Cars in Nigeria
Why are Honda cars cheaper to clear than some other brands?
Honda cars are considered regular vehicles, not luxury. Their CIF values are lower compared to brands like Mercedes-Benz or Lexus, which also attract luxury levies.
Can I clear the car myself without an agent?
It is technically possible, but it is not advisable. The process is complicated, and mistakes can cost more than an agent’s fee.
How long does it take to clear a Honda car?
If there are no delays and all paperwork is correct, it usually takes 4–7 working days.
Are older cars cheaper to clear?
Cars older than 15 years may not even be allowed to enter Nigeria. Slightly older cars (under 15 years) may have lower CIF, but avoid cars that are too old.
Final Thoughts on the Cost of Clearing Honda Cars in Nigeria (2025)
Honda remains one of the most popular car brands in Nigeria because it combines affordability, fuel efficiency, and durability. Clearing a Honda car at Nigerian ports is straightforward when you understand the process and budget properly.
From the Accord, CR-V, and Pilot to the Civic, Odyssey, and Crosstour, this guide has shown the estimated clearing costs for each model in 2025, along with tips to save money and avoid problems.
When importing your next Honda car, work with a professional clearing agent, prepare all required documents in advance, and plan your budget carefully. This will ensure a smooth experience and help you avoid unnecessary surprises at the port.