How do I import a used excavator to Nigeria?
Ship to Lagos / Tin Can Island (32–38 days) with SONCAP certification, which we arrange. SONCAP is mandatory for clearing used machinery in Nigeria.
By ExcaYard Team · Updated August 18, 2026
Nigeria in one line
Used excavators enter Nigeria through Lagos / Tin Can Island (32–38 days from Shanghai) under the SONCAP program — the mandatory conformity scheme for regulated imports, including machinery.
The SONCAP process
- Product certificate — the machine is assessed against Nigerian standards.
- SONCAP certificate — issued after pre-shipment inspection.
- Customs — the SONCAP certificate, bill of lading, and invoice clear the machine at Lagos.
We arrange SONCAP in-house, so the certification is done before your machine ever sails. Nigeria is one of our highest-volume routes.
Related questions
Is SONCAP mandatory for used excavators?
Yes — SONCAP is required for regulated imports into Nigeria, including used construction machinery.
How long does Nigeria import take?
32–38 days port-to-port from Shanghai to Lagos / Tin Can, plus prep and clearance.
Which Nigerian port do you use?
Lagos / Tin Can Island is the standard entry point for our Nigeria-bound machines.
