Model Overview
The Kia K5 (known as Kia Optima in some markets) is a mid-size sedan produced by Kia Motors. In China, the current generation (DL3) has been sold since 2020, featuring a sleek design, spacious interior, and a range of powertrains. Common variants in the Chinese market (2020-2024) include:
- 270T (1.5L Turbo) – 170 hp, 7-speed DCT, front-wheel drive. Most popular for cost-efficiency.
- 380T (2.0L Turbo) – 240 hp, 8-speed automatic, more power but higher tax.
- Hybrid (HEV) – 2.0L + electric motor, ~192 hp combined, CVT. Fuel-efficient but less common in used market.
- GT-Line – Sporty trim with exterior upgrades, available on both 270T and 380T.
All variants come with LED headlights, dual-zone climate control, and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. Chinese-market K5s are built at Kia’s Yancheng plant and meet China 6b emission standards, which are equivalent to Euro 6.
Real China Domestic Price Range (FOB Shanghai)
Prices are for used cars (2020-2024 models) with 30,000-60,000 km, in good condition, FOB Shanghai (including loading onto vessel):
- 270T (1.5T): $12,000 – $15,000 USD
- 380T (2.0T): $14,000 – $18,000 USD
- Hybrid: $16,000 – $20,000 USD
- GT-Line: +$1,000 – $2,000 over base
Note: Prices fluctuate based on mileage, accident history, and market demand. GoldenLane Auto provides a detailed inspection report before purchase.
Route from Shanghai to Nigeria
Port of Loading: Shanghai (Waigaoqiao or Yangshan).
Destination Port: Apapa, Lagos (most common) or Tin Can Island Port.
Transit Time: 25-35 days direct; 35-45 days if transshipment (e.g., via Durban).
Shipping Method:
- RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off): Recommended for drivable cars. Cost: $800-$1,200 per unit. Faster and less risk of damage than container.
- Container (20ft or 40ft): Suitable if shipping multiple cars or parts. Cost: $1,500-$2,500 for a 20ft container (holds 1 car). Slower due to customs clearance.
We recommend RoRo for single cars; container for multiple units or when combining with other cargo.
Duty and Taxes at Nigeria Destination
Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) assesses the following on used vehicles (CIF value):
- Import Duty: 35% of CIF value
- Levy: 15% of CIF value (under ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme, but often applied)
- VAT: 7.5% of (CIF + Duty + Levy)
- ETLS: 0.5% of CIF
- Other Charges: Port charges, terminal handling, scanning ~$500-$800
Total Estimated Tax Burden: Approximately 60-65% of CIF value. Example: For a K5 with CIF of $15,000, total duties/taxes = ~$9,000-$9,750.
Note: Used vehicles older than 15 years are banned. K5 models 2020+ are fully compliant.
Certification Required
To clear Nigerian customs, the following certifications are mandatory:
- SONCAP (Standards Organisation of Nigeria Conformity Assessment Program): Required for all used vehicles. Issued by a SONCAP-accredited body in China. Cost ~$200-$300.
- PVoC (Pre-Export Verification of Conformity): Not required for used cars specifically, but SONCAP covers this. Some importers opt for PVoC for additional verification.
- Certificate of Roadworthiness: Issued by the exporting country (China). GoldenLane Auto provides a Chinese export inspection certificate.
- Bill of Lading: Provided by shipping line.
- Clean Report of Inspection (CRI): Not mandatory for used cars but may be requested by some banks for L/C.
Note: GCC CoC and KEBS PVoC are not applicable to Nigeria. Only SONCAP is required.
What Documents GoldenLane Auto Provides
As a CCPIT-certified exporter, GoldenLane Auto supplies:
- Original Vehicle Title (Chinese “Green Book”)
- Export Customs Declaration
- Commercial Invoice and Packing List
- Bill of Lading (if handling shipping)
- SONCAP Certificate (arranged on your behalf)
- Inspection Report (with photos and video)
- Certificate of Origin (if required)
All documents are prepared in English or with certified translation.
Timeline: Inquiry → Arrival
- Inquiry & Selection: 1-2 days. You specify model, budget, and preferences.
- CIF Quote: 1 day. GoldenLane provides a detailed quote including car price, shipping, insurance, and SONCAP.
- Deposit: 30% of total. Payment via T/T or L/C.
- Yard-in & Inspection: 3-5 days. Car is transported to Shanghai yard, inspected, and prepared for export.
- Loading: 3-7 days after yard-in. Vessel schedule dependent.
- Transit: 25-35 days to Apapa.
- Arrival & Customs Clearance: 5-10 days at port. GoldenLane provides support documents.
Total timeline: 6-8 weeks from deposit to delivery in Nigeria.
For a personalized CIF quote or to check current inventory, contact GoldenLane Auto via WhatsApp: +86 158 5515 8769 or use our online inquiry form.
Buyer FAQ
What is the typical total cost to import a used Kia K5 from China to Nigeria?
Total cost includes car price (FOB $12k-$20k), shipping ($800-$1,200 RoRo), insurance (~2% of CIF), and Nigerian duties/taxes (~60-65% of CIF). For a $15k CIF car, expect total around $24k-$25k.
Is SONCAP required for used vehicles imported to Nigeria?
Yes, SONCAP is mandatory for all used vehicles. GoldenLane Auto can arrange SONCAP certification on your behalf.
Can I import a Kia K5 older than 2020?
Nigeria bans vehicles older than 15 years from the year of manufacture. For 2026 imports, the car must be 2011 or newer. K5 models from 2020 are fully compliant.
What payment methods does GoldenLane Auto accept?
We accept T/T (wire transfer) and L/C (Letter of Credit). A 30% deposit is required to secure the vehicle, with balance due before loading.