If you are planning to import a Mercedes-Benz car into Nigeria in 2025, understanding the cost of clearing Mercedes-Benz cars in Nigeria is very important. Many people get surprised by the clearing fees at the port because they didn’t plan properly. This guide will explain everything you need to know about clearing Mercedes-Benz cars in Nigeria — including C-Class, E-Class, GLE, G-Class, and more.
We will cover the estimated costs for different models, explain what affects these costs, and share tips to help you avoid unnecessary expenses. Whether you live in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, or anywhere else, this article will help you budget wisely and clear your car without stress.
Why Is Clearing a Mercedes-Benz Car in Nigeria So Expensive?
Mercedes-Benz is a luxury brand. In Nigeria, the Customs Service charges higher duties and levies for luxury cars than for regular vehicles. Some reasons why clearing Mercedes-Benz cars is expensive include:
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The cars are high-value, so duties (which are percentage-based) become high.
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Many Mercedes-Benz models have large engines and are classified as luxury.
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Some models, like SUVs and G-Class, are bulky and attract higher port handling fees.
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Newer models have higher CIF (Cost + Insurance + Freight) values.
How Nigerian Customs Calculates Clearing Fees
The clearing cost for any imported car in Nigeria depends on the CIF value of the car (the cost of the car abroad + insurance + shipping to Nigeria). Then Customs applies:
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Import Duty: 35% of the CIF value.
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Levy (Luxury Tax): Up to 35% of CIF value for luxury vehicles.
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VAT (Value Added Tax): 7.5% of total duties.
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Other fees: Port handling, shipping company charges, and terminal fees.
Because Mercedes-Benz cars are classified as luxury and have high CIF values, the final clearing cost is significant.
Estimated Cost of Clearing Popular Mercedes-Benz Models in Nigeria (2025)
Below are the estimated clearing costs for the most common Mercedes-Benz models Nigerians import. These estimates assume the cars are under 15 years old, in good condition, and cleared through Lagos ports.
1. Mercedes-Benz C-Class
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Years: 2010–2022
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Estimated clearing cost: ₦2,200,000 – ₦4,000,000
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Notes: The C-Class is a compact luxury sedan. Although it’s entry-level, it still attracts luxury duties.
2. Mercedes-Benz E-Class
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Years: 2010–2022
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Estimated clearing cost: ₦2,800,000 – ₦5,000,000
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Notes: The E-Class is a mid-size luxury sedan, more expensive than the C-Class and highly popular among professionals.
3. Mercedes-Benz S-Class
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Years: 2010–2022
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Estimated clearing cost: ₦4,500,000 – ₦8,500,000
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Notes: The flagship luxury sedan, S-Class clearing costs are very high due to its premium status.
4. Mercedes-Benz GLE
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Years: 2015–2022
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Estimated clearing cost: ₦4,000,000 – ₦7,500,000
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Notes: This luxury SUV attracts higher port fees because of its size and high CIF value.
5. Mercedes-Benz GLS
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Years: 2015–2022
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Estimated clearing cost: ₦5,000,000 – ₦8,500,000
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Notes: A full-size luxury SUV, the GLS is among the most expensive Mercedes models to clear.
6. Mercedes-Benz G-Class (G-Wagon)
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Years: 2010–2022
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Estimated clearing cost: ₦6,000,000 – ₦12,000,000
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Notes: The G-Class is the most expensive to clear because it’s a luxury off-roader with high valuation.
7. Mercedes-Benz CLA
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Years: 2014–2021
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Estimated clearing cost: ₦2,000,000 – ₦3,500,000
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Notes: A smaller luxury sedan, the CLA is one of the more affordable models to clear.
8. Mercedes-Benz GLK
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Years: 2010–2015
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Estimated clearing cost: ₦2,800,000 – ₦4,500,000
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Notes: A compact luxury SUV, the GLK remains popular and its clearing fees are moderate.
Summary Table: Cost of Clearing Mercedes-Benz Cars in Nigeria (2025)
| Mercedes-Benz Model | Year Range | Estimated Clearing Cost (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| C-Class | 2010–2022 | 2,200,000 – 4,000,000 |
| E-Class | 2010–2022 | 2,800,000 – 5,000,000 |
| S-Class | 2010–2022 | 4,500,000 – 8,500,000 |
| GLE | 2015–2022 | 4,000,000 – 7,500,000 |
| GLS | 2015–2022 | 5,000,000 – 8,500,000 |
| G-Class (G-Wagon) | 2010–2022 | 6,000,000 – 12,000,000 |
| CLA | 2014–2021 | 2,000,000 – 3,500,000 |
| GLK | 2010–2015 | 2,800,000 – 4,500,000 |
Factors That Affect the Clearing Costs of Mercedes-Benz Cars
Several factors determine how much you’ll pay to clear your car:
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Year of manufacture: Newer cars attract higher valuations.
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Model type: SUVs, S-Class, and G-Wagon are costlier than sedans.
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Exchange rate: Customs uses the official naira-to-dollar rate to calculate CIF.
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Condition: Salvaged cars may have lower CIF, but you must provide proper documentation.
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Port of entry: Clearing at Lagos (Apapa or Tin Can) is the most common but rates may vary slightly from Port Harcourt or Warri.
Step-by-Step Process of Clearing a Mercedes-Benz Car in Nigeria
To clear a car successfully, follow these steps:
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Hire a Licensed Clearing Agent: Work with a trusted agent who knows the process.
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Prepare Documents: You’ll need your Bill of Lading, Invoice, Terminal Delivery Order (TDO), Form M, and Import Duty Payment Receipt.
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Customs Valuation: Customs assesses your car and assigns a CIF value.
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Pay Duties & Fees: Pay the calculated import duty, levy, VAT, and port charges.
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Inspection & Release: Once all payments and inspections are done, your car is released.
Tips to Save Money on Clearing a Mercedes-Benz Car
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Import a car that is less than 10 years old but not brand new to reduce valuation.
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Use an experienced clearing agent to avoid errors and demurrage charges.
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Make sure all documents are ready before the car arrives at the port.
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Avoid peak seasons when port congestion and fees tend to rise.
Common Questions About Clearing Mercedes-Benz Cars in Nigeria
Why is clearing a G-Wagon so expensive?
The G-Wagon is classified as a luxury SUV, has high CIF value, and attracts maximum import duties and levies.
Can I clear the car myself?
While technically possible, the process is complicated and it’s better to hire a licensed clearing agent.
How long does it take to clear a Mercedes-Benz car?
If all documents are in order, it usually takes between 4–7 working days.
Are older Mercedes cars cheaper to clear?
Not necessarily. Cars older than 15 years may face additional penalties or may not even be cleared.
Final Thoughts on the Cost of Clearing Mercedes-Benz Cars in Nigeria (2025)
Clearing a Mercedes-Benz car in Nigeria requires proper planning and budgeting. Because these cars are luxury vehicles, their clearing costs are higher than many other brands. However, knowing what to expect and working with the right professionals can help you avoid unnecessary expenses.
This guide to the cost of clearing Mercedes-Benz cars in Nigeria 2025 — covering models like the C-Class, E-Class, GLE, GLS, G-Wagon, and more — will help you prepare your budget and avoid surprises at the port. Always use a trusted clearing agent, prepare all documents ahead of time, and act quickly to avoid demurrage.
With the right knowledge, clearing your dream Mercedes-Benz can be a smooth process.