Shipping Car Parts to Nigeria from the UK: Engines, Panels and Tyres
UK car parts are in demand in Nigeria. Here is how to ship them, how to prepare engines and gearboxes, and the parts you cannot send.
Written by
R-Zone Cargo Team
Published on
20 October 2026
Quick Answer
Most car parts can be shipped to Nigeria, usually by sea because they are heavy. Engines and gearboxes must be drained of all fluids, batteries must be declared, and used and retreaded tyres are on Nigeria's import prohibition list. New tyres can be shipped.
- Best mode
- Sea, for heavy parts
- Engines
- Drained of all fluids
- Used tyres
- Prohibited
- Batteries
- Declare; sea only
In This Article
Car parts from the UK to Nigeria
UK-sourced parts are prized in Nigeria for their quality, and many mechanics and car owners rely on them. Whether you are sending a single gearbox or a pallet of spares for a workshop, a little preparation avoids most problems.
What you can send
- Engines and gearboxes, fully drained
- Body panels, bumpers, doors and lights
- Suspension and brake parts
- Electrical parts: sensors, ECUs, alternators and starters
- New tyres and alloy wheels
- Service parts: filters, belts, plugs and pads
What you cannot send
- Used or retreaded tyres
- Parts still containing oil, fuel or coolant
- Undeclared batteries
- Airbag units and pretensioners unless declared and approved (they contain explosive charges)
- Anything on the prohibited items list
Preparing heavy parts
- Drain every fluid and plug the openings.
- Clean off oil and grease so it cannot stain other cargo.
- Palletise engines and gearboxes, strapped or bolted down.
- Wrap panels at the edges and corners with card or foam.
- Label each part with the recipient's name and phone number.
Air or sea, and shipping a whole car
Heavy parts go by sea freight in 4 to 6 weeks at the lowest cost per kilo. Small dry parts can go by air in 5 to 10 working days when a car is off the road waiting.
Shipping the whole vehicle? Read our car shipping guide for vehicle age rules and duty. Call +44 (0) 800 772 0864 or WhatsApp +44 7915 647119 and a member of our UK team will help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I send used tyres to Nigeria?
No. Used and retreaded tyres are on Nigeria's import prohibition list. New tyres can be shipped.
How do I prepare an engine for shipping?
Drain all oil, coolant and fuel, plug the openings, and bolt or strap the engine to a pallet so it cannot move. Undrained engines are a fire and leak risk and will not be accepted.
Can I send a car battery?
Car batteries are hazardous goods. They must be declared and normally travel by sea with terminals protected. Ask us before you include one.
Can small parts go by air?
Yes. Small, dry parts such as sensors, filters, brake pads and electronics can travel by air if you need them quickly. Anything with fluids, and heavy parts, should go by sea.
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