Guide
How to Import Auto Parts to Africa: Complete Checklist
Africa imports over $8 billion in auto parts annually, with Nigeria, Kenya, and Ghana as the largest markets. The right sourcing strategy can save 20-40% compared to buying from local distributors. Here's your complete import checklist.
1. Classify Your Products with HS Codes
Correct HS (Harmonized System) codes are critical for customs clearance. Wrong codes mean delays, fines, or seized shipments. Here are the most common codes for auto parts imports:
| HS Code | Product | Avg Duty (EA) |
|---|---|---|
| 8708.30 | Brake pads, discs, systems | 25% |
| 8708.80 | Suspension, shock absorbers | 25% |
| 8708.70 | Road wheels (aluminum/steel) | 25% |
| 8409.91 | Engine parts (spark-ignition) | 10% |
| 8421.23 | Oil & fuel filters | 10% |
| 8511.10 | Spark plugs | 10% |
| 4011.10 | Passenger vehicle tires | 25% |
| 8708.91 | Radiators & cooling parts | 25% |
2. Country-Specific Import Requirements
Nigeria
- • SONCAP certificate required for all auto parts
- • Form M must be filed before shipment
- • Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) mandatory
- • Recommended port: Apapa (Lagos) or Tin Can Island
Kenya
- • KEBS (Kenya Bureau of Standards) pre-export verification
- • Import Declaration Form (IDF) required
- • Recommended port: Mombasa
- • Used parts face additional inspection requirements
Ghana
- • Ghana Conformity Assessment Programme (G-CAP)
- • Import Declaration Form (IDF) via GCNet
- • Recommended ports: Tema (main), Takoradi
3. Shipping Methods Comparison
| Method | Best For | Transit Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| LCL (Less than Container) | Small orders, trial shipments | 30-45 days | $150-300/m³ |
| FCL 20ft | Medium orders (28m³) | 25-40 days | $2,000-4,000 |
| FCL 40ft | Large orders (58m³) | 25-40 days | $3,500-6,500 |
| Air freight | Urgent, high-value parts | 3-7 days | $3-8/kg |
4. Payment and Risk Management
- ✓Start with a small trial order ($2,000-5,000) before committing to full containers
- ✓Use Letter of Credit (L/C) for first transactions with new suppliers
- ✓Request third-party inspection (SGS, Bureau Veritas) before shipment
- ✓Never pay 100% upfront — negotiate 30/70 or 50/50 payment terms
- ✓Get shipping insurance (typically 0.3-0.5% of cargo value)
Find verified auto parts suppliers now
Each supplier profile includes HS codes for your products. Start your first import today.
Search Auto Parts Suppliers →