Buying a car at a US auction can save you a lot compared to buying the same car in a Lagos showroom. It can also go badly wrong if you bid blind, underestimate the costs or pick the wrong importer. Here’s how the process works from start to finish.
Set your total budget, not your bid budget.
The winning bid is only part of what you’ll pay. Add auction fees, towing to the port, shipping, customs duty, clearing charges and delivery. Many first-time buyers win a car at a great price and then can’t afford to clear it. Get a landed-cost estimate before you bid.
Choose the car carefully.
Study every photo, read the damage description and run the VIN through a history check. Ask what the auction’s condition description covers and arrange any available inspection before committing.
Agree your bid limit.
If you bid through an importer, agree your maximum bid in writing first, so there’s no argument if the price climbs. Confirm account eligibility and the auction’s terms for your chosen lot.
Pay and arrange pickup.
Confirm the payment deadline, collection window and any storage fees for your auction. Your importer should arrange pickup from the yard to the departure port after payment clears.
Choose Ro-Ro or container.
Ro-Ro transports suitable vehicles driven onto a vessel. Containers provide an enclosed option. Ask which method is available for your vehicle, and compare the full quote and expected schedule.
Prepare for customs clearing.
The car must be cleared through customs before release. Ask your agent to confirm the required documents, duty assessment and payment process for your vehicle before arrival.
Receive your car.
Once released, the car can be delivered to your home or collected by arrangement. Confirm the handover location and any requested repairs with the team.
Doing it with Thamson.
We handle the journey from the bid to the handover, with updates on WhatsApp along the way. Send us the auction link and we’ll give you the full landed cost before you bid.
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