If a VIN check is the first step when buying a used car, verifying the documents is the second—and it’s just as important.
Over the years, I’ve seen buyers lose not only their money but also the vehicles they thought they owned because the paperwork wasn’t complete.
Last year, a customer from Ibadan called me after buying a clean 2012 Toyota Camry from someone he met on Facebook. The price was attractive, and the car looked great.
About two months later, he was stopped at a police checkpoint in Mokola. During the inspection, officers checked the vehicle documents and compared them with the chassis number. They informed him that the car had previously been reported stolen and seized it for investigation.
Unfortunately, he had collected only the vehicle licence and roadworthiness certificate. He had not verified the ownership documents or confirmed the vehicle’s import records.
That experience is a reminder that buying a car isn’t just about the condition of the vehicle—it’s also about making sure the paperwork is complete and genuine.
Whether you’re buying a Tokunbo or Nigerian-used car, make sure you collect and verify the following documents before making your final payment.
1. Original Customs Duty Receipt (Tokunbo Cars Only)
For imported vehicles, the Customs Duty Receipt is one of the most important documents.
It confirms that the vehicle entered Nigeria through the proper import process and that the applicable customs duties were paid.
A genuine Customs document typically contains:
- Nigeria Customs Service details
- Customs reference (C-Number)
- Chassis number (VIN)
- Year of importation
- Duty payment information
Before completing your purchase, ensure the chassis number on the receipt matches the VIN on the vehicle.
If you have any doubts, consider verifying the Customs reference through the appropriate authorities or a reputable clearing agent.
If the seller says the Customs documents will be available later, it’s usually safer to wait until they are available before paying the full balance.
2. Bill of Lading
The Bill of Lading is the shipping document issued when the vehicle was transported into Nigeria.
It usually contains:
- Port of departure
- Shipping company information
- Vessel details
- Vehicle identification details
- Chassis number
For Tokunbo vehicles, this document provides additional evidence of the vehicle’s import history.
If you’re buying a Nigerian-used vehicle, the original owner may still have this document, although it isn’t always required.
3. Proof of Ownership Certificate
The Proof of Ownership Certificate confirms the legal ownership of the vehicle.
If you’re buying a Nigerian-used car, ask the seller to provide the existing Proof of Ownership before you complete the transaction.
After purchase, you’ll need to process a Change of Ownership so the vehicle is registered in your name.
I explained the complete process here:
What is Proof of Ownership and How to Get It
Never rely solely on a verbal promise that the ownership documents will be processed later.
4. Vehicle Licence
The Vehicle Licence is one of the documents most commonly requested during routine traffic checks.
Before buying the vehicle, compare the information on the licence with the vehicle itself.
Pay special attention to:
- Chassis number (VIN)
- Engine number
- Vehicle make and model
The chassis number should always match exactly.
If there are discrepancies, ask the seller for an explanation before proceeding.
5. Roadworthiness Certificate
A Roadworthiness Certificate confirms that the vehicle has passed the required inspection for use on public roads.
If the existing certificate is close to expiry, you can renew it after purchasing the vehicle.
Where possible, ensure the certificate was issued through the appropriate licensing authority.
6. Insurance Certificate
Ask the seller to provide the current insurance certificate, even if it will expire soon.
After buying the vehicle, arrange your own insurance policy as soon as possible.
Depending on your needs, you can choose:
- Third-party insurance
- Comprehensive insurance
You should also verify that the insurance policy is genuine before relying on it.
For a complete guide, read:
How to Renew Vehicle License and Insurance Online
7. Dealer Receipt or Sales Agreement
Many buyers overlook this document, but it can become extremely important if ownership is ever questioned.
A proper receipt or sales agreement should include:
- Date of sale
- Buyer’s full name
- Seller’s full name
- Purchase price
- Vehicle make
- Model
- Year
- Colour
- Chassis number
- Engine number
- Seller’s signature
- Seller’s contact details
Where appropriate, the seller may also include a declaration confirming that the vehicle is being sold free from any known liens or ownership disputes.
If you’re buying from an individual, it’s also a good idea to keep a copy of the seller’s valid identification together with the sales receipt.
What If You’re Buying a Nigerian-Used Car?
If you’re buying a Nigerian-used vehicle instead of a Tokunbo car, you generally won’t need:
- Customs Duty Receipt
- Bill of Lading
However, you should ensure you receive:
- Existing Proof of Ownership
- Completed Change of Ownership documentation
- Valid vehicle licence
- Roadworthiness certificate
- Insurance certificate
- Signed sales receipt
Processing the Change of Ownership promptly helps ensure the vehicle is officially registered in your name.
My Personal Checklist Before Making Payment
Whenever I inspect a vehicle for someone, I go through the following checklist before recommending payment:
- VIN verified? How to Check VIN
- Customs documents verified? (Tokunbo only)
- Proof of Ownership collected?
- Vehicle Licence matches the vehicle?
- Insurance certificate available?
- Sales receipt completed and signed?
- Seller’s identification verified?
If every item is confirmed, you can proceed with greater confidence.
If something important is missing, it’s usually better to resolve it before transferring the balance.
The complete buying process—from choosing a vehicle to verifying documents—is explained here:
Ultimate Guide to Buying Tokunbo Cars in Lagos – in Buying Guide
Frequently Asked Question
Can I Verify Customs Documents Myself?
Yes.
You can verify Customs documentation through the appropriate Nigeria Customs Service channels or seek assistance from a reputable clearing agent if you’re unsure how to interpret the records.
Taking a few minutes to verify the documents before payment can save you significant time, money, and stress later.
For a complete guide, read:
[LINK TO ARTICLE #9 – How to Check if a Car is Stolen or Has Police Case]
Final Thoughts
A vehicle may look clean and drive well, but incomplete or questionable paperwork can create serious problems after purchase.
Before paying for any used vehicle, verify both the car and its documents carefully.
A little extra time spent checking ownership records, import documents, and supporting paperwork can protect your investment and give you greater peace of mind for years to come.