•MWCN-reinforced polymer composite frequency computed using the HSDT model.•The nanotube composite properties are computed theoretically assuming the random distribution via Mori-Tanaka scheme and experimentally.•The desired responses are computed via computer code and compared with experimental frequencies for the validation purpose. The vibration frequencies of multi-walled carbon nanotube-reinforced polymer composite structure are examined numerically via a generic higher-order shear deformation kinematics for different panel geometries. The extensive behaviour of the current higher-order model is demonstrated by comparing the results with the published data including the own in-house experimental values. In this analysis, the required elastic properties of the randomly distributed nanotube-reinforced polymer composite panel are evaluated numerically using Mori–Tanaka scheme. Firstly, the equation of motion of the vibrated nanotube composite panel derived via the classical Hamilton's principle and the isoparametric finite element steps are implemented for the numerical purpose. Further, the modal responses are obtained computationally using an original computer code (MATLAB) with the help of the higher-order finite element formulation. The necessary convergence and subsequent comparison have been made for the presently developed numerical model with those available published results including the values obtained via commercial package (ANSYS). Additionally, the model validation has been established by comparing the present numerical frequency values with the lab-scale free vibration experimental data. The specific conclusions are drawn by examining different numerical examples for various structural parameters using the experimental properties. Display omitted The vibration frequencies of MWCN–reinforced composite panel is computed theoretically using the presently developed higher–order kinematic theory and compared with available experimental results for the validation purpose. The MWCN reinforced composite plate is fabricated using hand layup technique and frequency values are recorded via cDAQ in association with LabVIEW.