Insightz: I am freshly into the auto auto business. I am operating from the European axis; Holland, Belgium and Germany. I started a few months ago when a friend asked me to buy a Toyota Corolla for him. I thought it was difficult but I ended up having fun checking out cars. I have succeeded in sending some buses with some cargo loaded on them. I must say that, the nature of car business can be a bit tricky. I realized that sometimes the market is quite slow. Or maybe I am not doing the right things the right way or doing the rights the wrong way. Most of what I know now I learned from experience; no apprenticeship or external help. First my experiences with the clearing agents was bitter sweet. The guy kept on asking for money after money. He said he needed to pay this, pay that! Then came also the buyers who gave ridiculous bids.

To all the successful car dealers in the house, kindly drop some useful tips on how to succeed in this business:

1. What are the best places to source Tokunbo cars: open market, garage sales, auction houses? For those who are familiar with the European market? I source mostly online.
2. What cars are surefire sellers in Naija?
3. Any good clearing agents in the house? not those who have to pay this, pay that and pay those!
4. How can one reduce shipping charges and clearing charges? is it better to use containers or Roll on Roll off?
5. Is it advisable to sell on the forum before the car gets cleared? I see that some veterans do this.
6. Any other info is well appreciated

Thanks

oliverjiad: use roll on roll off for it u can contact me forr ur clearing handling sir

Regards

Jaid

chucky234: The best places to source cars at affordable rates are the US and Canada, toyota being the most overhyped and overrated brand in Nigeria should be your top choice especially 1997 - 2011 Camry and 2001 - 2009 Avalon. 2003 - 2008 Corolla sell like magic candles, Honda Accord (1998 - 2011) is another model that appeal to Nigerians, Lexus RX 300/330/350 also attract potential buyers.
Try as much as possible to offer your cars below market rates.

chucky234: The best places to source cars at affordable rates are the US and Canada, toyota being the most overhyped and overrated brand in Nigeria should be your top choice especially 1997 - 2011 Camry and 2001 - 2009 Avalon. 2003 - 2008 Corolla sell like magic candles, Honda Accord (1998 - 2011) is another model that appeal to Nigerians, Lexus RX 300/330/350 also attract potential buyers.
Try as much as possible to offer your cars below market rates.

calculusx:

Infact,you have hit the nail on the head with not an ordinary hammer but with a Sledge hammer . GOD bless you.

OP: Which country are you? We can meet somewhere in Europe next month for meeting and discussion. We can work something out from there.

Many Nigerians love German Cars but price is another issue. You need to carefully study the Nigerian Market (as there are some Car Spec and Trims that won't sell in 6months and some will sell within weeks) before going fully into the business.

Insightz:

Thanks chucky234. You have been of much help. Do you have any suggestions on buses? I am also ship bulk Tokunbo washing machines, freezers, etc. I use buses to load my stuff from the warehouses. Do have any suggestions on the kinds of buses or trucks that are marketable? Also you mentioned Toyota; what about Toyota Rav4? Is it marketable? Those I can I source at competitive rates in European markets, especially the German auto bush market. I read in the forum about Infiniti, are they good to go? Thanks again

calculusx:

Infact,you have hit the nail on the head with not an ordinary hammer but with a Sledge hammer . GOD bless you.

OP: Which country are you? We can meet somewhere in Europe next month for meeting and discussion. We can work something out from there.

Many Nigerians love German Cars but price is another issue. You need to carefully study the Nigerian Market (as there are some Car Spec and Trims that won't sell in 6months and some will sell within weeks) before going fully into the business.

justjeff: Contact calculusx autos on this site. You can view his thread to confirm his deals. He is a guru and trust-worthy fellow.

I stand to be corrected on my referal.

Cheers

Benez: My brother, Corolla, Highlander and Rav 4 actually dominate Nigerian Market. For Freezers, get Liber and some other good ones. For washing Machines, buy uploaded machines with especially manual ones.

Insightz:
Thanks calculusx. I have gone through your posts. I can say that you come well recommended. From what I see, Toyota cars are the thing. To tell you the truth I am very curious about the car specs and trims that sell within weeks.
Thanks for the tips