If you’re planning to import a Toyota car into Nigeria in 2025, understanding the cost of clearing Toyota cars in Nigeria is a critical first step. Clearing your car at the Nigerian port (Apapa, Tin Can, or PTML) is mandatory before you can drive it legally on Nigerian roads.
This complete guide explains the clearing cost of popular Toyota models including Corolla, Camry, Sienna, Highlander, and others as well as what influences these costs, how the process works, and tips to save money when clearing your vehicle.
Whether you’re in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, or elsewhere, this guide will help you plan your budget wisely and avoid surprises.
Why Is Clearing a Car in Nigeria So Expensive?
Many Nigerians wonder why clearing a car at the port is so costly. The reason is that the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) applies import duties, levies, VAT, and sometimes demurrage on imported vehicles.
These fees are calculated based on:
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The age of the car.
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The Customs duty rate (often 35% of the car’s CIF value).
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Port charges and processing fees.
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Storage charges if delayed at the port.
Toyota cars remain very popular because of their durability, affordable maintenance, and strong resale value. But since they’re in high demand, Customs uses updated valuation tables to ensure proper revenue collection.
How Are Toyota Car Clearing Costs Calculated?
The clearing cost of a car is usually based on its CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight). Then, duties and taxes are applied.
Typically, the calculation involves:
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Customs duty (35% of CIF).
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Levy (if applicable, sometimes 35% of CIF for newer vehicles).
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VAT (7.5% of CIF + duty + levy).
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Port and terminal charges.
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Additional costs like agent fees and demurrage (if delayed).
You also pay for the agent who processes your documents and ensures release of the car from the port.
Average Cost of Clearing Popular Toyota Cars in Nigeria (2025)
Here’s a breakdown of estimated clearing costs for the most popular Toyota models in Nigeria for 2025. These costs assume the cars are in good condition, not more than 15 years old, and were imported via Lagos ports.
1. Toyota Corolla
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Year: 2008–2015
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Estimated clearing cost: ₦650,000 – ₦1,200,000
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Why it varies: Newer models attract higher valuations. Older cars (above 15 years) may be more expensive due to age penalties.
2. Toyota Camry
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Year: 2007–2017
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Estimated clearing cost: ₦750,000 – ₦1,500,000
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Notes: Models like “Spider” and “Muscle” Camry are still common imports. Newer Camrys are classified as luxury and attract higher levies.
3. Toyota Sienna
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Year: 2004–2015
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Estimated clearing cost: ₦950,000 – ₦1,700,000
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Notes: The Sienna minivan is very popular for families and transport business, but it’s heavier, so slightly higher port charges apply.
4. Toyota Highlander
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Year: 2005–2017
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Estimated clearing cost: ₦1,100,000 – ₦2,000,000
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Notes: SUVs generally have higher customs values due to their size and luxury features.
5. Toyota RAV4
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Year: 2006–2016
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Estimated clearing cost: ₦800,000 – ₦1,400,000
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Notes: This compact SUV is fuel-efficient and popular among Nigerian buyers.
6. Toyota Avalon
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Year: 2006–2016
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Estimated clearing cost: ₦850,000 – ₦1,500,000
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Notes: Luxury sedans like Avalon have higher valuations and attract more import charges.
7. Toyota Prado (Land Cruiser)
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Year: 2007–2017
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Estimated clearing cost: ₦1,800,000 – ₦3,500,000
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Notes: A premium SUV, the Prado falls into the luxury category, so higher duties and levies apply.
Summary Table: Cost of Clearing Toyota Cars in Nigeria 2025
| Toyota Model | Year Range | Estimated Clearing Cost (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| Toyota Corolla | 2008–2015 | 650,000 – 1,200,000 |
| Toyota Camry | 2007–2017 | 750,000 – 1,500,000 |
| Toyota Sienna | 2004–2015 | 950,000 – 1,700,000 |
| Toyota Highlander | 2005–2017 | 1,100,000 – 2,000,000 |
| Toyota RAV4 | 2006–2016 | 800,000 – 1,400,000 |
| Toyota Avalon | 2006–2016 | 850,000 – 1,500,000 |
| Toyota Prado (Land Cruiser) | 2007–2017 | 1,800,000 – 3,500,000 |
Factors That Influence Clearing Costs
Several factors determine how much you will pay to clear your car:
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Car’s year of manufacture: Newer cars are more expensive to clear.
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Port of entry: Apapa and Tin Can ports may have slightly different charges.
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Exchange rate: Customs duty is calculated using the prevailing exchange rate.
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Type of car: SUVs and luxury models attract higher duties.
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Delay at the port: If your car stays too long before clearing, you pay demurrage and storage fees.
Step-by-Step Process of Clearing a Toyota Car in Nigeria
Clearing a car involves several stages. Here’s how it typically works:
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Hire a Licensed Clearing Agent: Find a reliable agent who knows the process and has access to Customs.
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Submit Vehicle Documents: This includes Bill of Lading, Terminal Delivery Order, Invoice, and Form M.
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Assessment and Valuation: Customs values the car using their valuation database.
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Pay Duties and Taxes: Pay the assessed fees to designated banks.
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Release of Car: After payment confirmation, the car is released from Customs custody.
Tips to Reduce Clearing Costs
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Import a car that is less than 10 years old.
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Use an experienced clearing agent to avoid errors.
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Ensure all documents are complete and correct.
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Clear the car promptly to avoid demurrage charges.
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Choose a port that suits your budget and location.
Common Questions About Clearing Toyota Cars in Nigeria
How long does it take to clear a car in Nigeria?
On average, clearing takes between 3–7 working days, depending on the efficiency of the agent and availability of documents.
Can I clear a car without an agent?
Technically yes, but it’s not advisable unless you understand the entire process and have port access.
What happens if I delay clearing my car?
You’ll incur demurrage (storage fees) and may even lose the car if abandoned too long.
Are older cars more expensive to clear?
In many cases, yes — Customs penalizes cars older than 15 years, making them costlier.
Final Thoughts on the Cost of Clearing Toyota Cars in Nigeria (2025)
Clearing a Toyota car in Nigeria can seem expensive, but understanding the process helps you plan properly and avoid unnecessary costs.
Toyota vehicles remain a wise choice for Nigerians because of their durability, affordability, and strong resale value.
By choosing the right model, hiring a trusted agent, and acting fast, you can save money and enjoy your car sooner.
Whether you’re importing a Corolla, Camry, Sienna, Highlander, or Prado, this guide on the cost of clearing Toyota cars in Nigeria 2025 will help you make informed decisions.