Published by: Tim | General Manager, CoatTech
Focus Markets: West Africa, Nigeria (Apapa & Tincan Ports)
Industry: Automotive Refurbishing Equipment, Industrial Export Logistics
The demand for high-quality, fully integrated automotive maintenance, repair, and refurbishing workshops is rapidly expanding in the Nigerian market. From premium commercial spray booths to heavy-duty 4-post lifts and advanced 3D wheel aligners, investors are increasingly seeking consolidated, turn-key solutions from global supply chains.
As a leading engineering partner and primary integrator, CoatTech specializes in providing comprehensive equipment consolidation. However, navigating the Nigerian Standard Organization of Nigeria Conformity Assessment Program (SONCAP) requires a clear understanding of responsibilities between the integrator and the buyer.
Here is the definitive guide on how CoatTech structures consolidated shipments and the vital compliance policies buyers must follow.
1. The Consolidated Shipment Advantage: One Master PI
Sourcing multiple workshop components—such as spray booths, mixing rooms, air compressors, and diagnostic tools—from scattered suppliers creates logistical nightmares and inflates shipping costs. CoatTech solves this by acting as the primary engineering contractor.
Single Point of Contact: We consolidate all required equipment into a unified export plan.
One Master Proforma Invoice (PI): Buyers receive a single Master PI issued under CoatTech. This streamlined document is essential for the buyer to process their Form M payment applications seamlessly in Nigeria.
Centralized Technical Documentation: We provide a single master equipment list, gathering all the respective CE certificates and technical testing papers from our network of certified partner factories.
2. Crucial Policy: SONCAP (PC/SC) Certification and Inspection Responsibilities
To ensure transparency and efficiency in international trade, the division of compliance responsibilities must be strictly defined.
Important Export Policy: While CoatTech provides the foundational technical documents (CE certificates and laboratory test reports) for the core equipment, all procedures, applications, and financial costs associated with obtaining the SONCAP Product Certificate (PC), the final SONCAP Certificate (SC), and arranging third-party physical inspections are strictly the responsibility of the buyer.
This policy aligns with Nigerian import regulations, empowering the buyer to manage their local customs clearing agents and preferred accredited inspection firms (such as SGS, Cotecna, or Intertek) directly.
3. The Turn-Key Export Workflow
To ensure a smooth transition from order confirmation to final customs clearance at Apapa or Tincan ports, CoatTech has structured a highly efficient operational workflow.
| Stage |
Action by CoatTech (Integrator) |
Action by Buyer (Importer) |
| Phase 1: Documentation |
Issues Master Proforma Invoice & collects underlying CE/Test Reports from partner factories. |
Uses the Master PI to open Form M with their local Nigerian bank. |
| Phase 2: Product Certification |
Provides technical specifications and factory details. |
Applies and pays for the Product Certificate (PC) via accredited agencies. |
| Phase 3: Consolidation |
Receives all outsourced equipment at the CoatTech warehouse and prepares for container loading. |
Coordinates with their chosen inspection agency for the physical audit date. |
| Phase 4: Inspection & SC |
Hosts the third-party inspectors at the factory for physical quality audits and container sealing. |
Pays for and secures the final SONCAP Certificate (SC) required for port clearance. |
| Phase 5: Logistics |
Coordinates with freight forwarders for vessel loading to Lagos ports. |
Receives the Bill of Lading (B/L) and executes local customs clearance. |
Summary for Importers
Investing in a complete commercial workshop requires precise coordination. By leveraging CoatTech's engineering network, Nigerian buyers gain access to top-tier equipment without the hassle of managing dozens of individual suppliers. By clearly delineating the SONCAP compliance responsibilities, both parties can ensure a frictionless, rapid, and fully compliant export process.
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