International Freight Forwarder and Customs Broker Based in China

The Complete Guide to Shipping from China to Nigeria

Table of Contents

Shipping goods is surely difficult. There are many rules you need to adhere to, deal with ports and even avoid issues that can make it more expensive and even unsafe. This guide shows you how to solve these problems, like getting through customs, handling things at the port, and keeping costs down. Allwayforward can be your source of relief as we give you the complete help you need without the hassle.

Shipping Methods

There is a plethora of shipping methods to choose from. Each option has its own strengths and weaknesses so you need to have a clear understanding of each.

Sea Freight

Sea freight often tops the charts for the most preferred shipping method. It is mostly because of its low cost, convenience, and ideal for cargo of all sizes.

  • LCL (Less Than Container Load): LCL is best for smaller shipments, as you only pay for the space you use in a shared container. However, it has slower transit times and a higher risk of delays due to multiple handling points and shared space.
  • FCL (Full Container Load): FCL is the perfect choice for larger shipments with it you can get exclusive use of a full container. This means you will get faster processing times however, on the other side you may have to pay higher upfront costs.

Air Freight

Air freight is surely the best choice for fastest shipping for time-sensitive, high-value goods. Even though it is more expensive than sea freight, it provides greater security and is a more reliable option.

Door-to-Door Shipping

If you prefer convenience over everything else then you shouldn’t even consider other methods when you ship from China to Nigeria. Door-to-door shipping is where a service does it all for you. All you have to do is wait for the shipment to arrive at your door and that’s about it.

Express Shipping

If you deal in high-value items and are running on a short deadline, express shipping should be your best choice. Two of the leading carriers for express shipping are DHL and FedEx, each offering unique benefits.

Cost Breakdown

Don’t make decisions in haste, it is better to first know all the details before you ship from China to Nigeria. The cost is one of the most problematic areas and you must be aware of the complete breakdown before you make a final decision.

Factors That Influence Shipping Costs

FactorHow It Influences Shipping Costs
Weight and VolumeCalculated based on the item’s dimensions (length x width x height). The physical weight of the item. The higher of dimensional or actual weight determines the cost.
Port FeesDifferent ports in Nigeria have varying fee structures. Fees for loading, unloading, and storage of goods. Fees for moving cargo between the ship and the terminal. Busier ports generally have higher fees due to congestion.
SurchargesShipping costs rise during peak periods (holidays, back-to-school). Fluctuates with global fuel prices, directly impacting transportation costs. Exchange rate changes between Naira and foreign currencies affect costs.
Customs Duties and TaxesTaxes based on the value or type of goods imported. A tax on goods and services. Charges for processing customs and clearing goods.
Inland TransportationTransportation costs within Nigeria increase with distance. Poor roads can lead to delays and higher costs. Security risks can raise transportation costs.
InsuranceProtects goods against loss or damage during transit. Varies based on the value of goods and coverage level.

Real-Life Scenario

To give you an example of how long it would take to ship 500 kilos of textiles from China to Nigeria using different shipping methods, we have put together a comparative analysis.

Shipping MethodEstimated CostTransit TimeBest For
Sea Freight (LCL)$400 – $60025-30 daysCost-effective, good for non-urgent shipments.
Sea Freight (FCL)$1,200 – $1,50020-30 daysFaster than LCL, good for larger shipments.
Air Freight (Standard)$1,500 – $2,0005-7 daysFaster than sea freight, suitable for moderately urgent goods.
Express Air Courier$2,500 – $3,0002-3 daysFastest option, ideal for urgent or high-value goods.

 

Customs Clearance Process in Nigeria

The customs clearance process in Nigeria can be complex and time-consuming. To ensure a smooth import experience, it’s crucial to understand the key regulations and documentation requirements.

  • Who’s in Charge: The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) is the government agency that oversees all imports and exports. It makes sure rules are followed, and also collects taxes.
  • Quality Check: For some products, you need to get a “Pre-shipment Verification of Conformity” (PVoC). This means the goods must be checked to make sure they meet Nigerian safety and quality standards.
  • Import Forms: You must fill out an “Import Declaration Form” (IDF) for every item you bring into Nigeria. This form needs to be submitted online through the NCS’s Simba system.

Required Documents:

  • Bill of Lading/Air Waybill
  • Commercial Invoice
  • Packing List
  • Certificate of Origin
  • Import License
  • Pre-shipment Inspection Certificate (PVoC)
  • Insurance Certificate
  • Import Declaration Form (IDF)

How to Have Smooth Customs Clearance:

  1. Find a customs broker who knows the Nigerian system inside and out. They’ll take care of all the paperwork and get your goods moving smoothly.
  2. Make sure all your documents are complete and accurate. Missing information can cause delays, and you surely don’t want that.
  3. If your goods need a PVoC certificate, get it sorted before you ship.
  4. Learn how to use the Simba system to submit your documents online. It’s much easier and will help you in the longer run.

Customs rules can change, so keep yourself informed about the latest requirements.

Tools and Resources

Advancements in the shipping industry have led to great innovations and that includes the tools and resources that make it easier for people who want to ship from China to Nigeria.

  • Shipping Calculator: Figures out how much shipping will cost based on weight, size, and where it’s going. Compare prices, make good choices, and plan your budget.
  • Transit Time Checker: Tracks your shipment and tells you when it will arrive. Plan ahead, stay informed, and feel less worried.
  • Document Templates: Provides ready-to-use forms for important shipping papers (like invoices). Avoid mistakes, make sure everything is correct, and make shipping easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I ship goods from China to Nigeria myself, or do I need to use a freight forwarder?

You can ship things yourself, but using a freight forwarder is usually easier. They take care of all the details, so your shipment gets there smoothly.

  • Can I get a better price if I ship a large amount from China to Nigeria?

Yes, you can often get better deals on shipping from China to Nigeria if you’re sending larger quantities. Many shipping companies and freight forwarders offer discounts for bulk shipments.

Conclusion

Allwayforward can be your shipping partner and help you with all complex requirements when you ship from China to Nigeria. There is absolutely no need to burden yourself with all the hassle and worries of ensuring that you fulfill the requirements when you can get the help you need.

Get in contact with Allwayforward and you can start your shipping process right away! We’re just a call away!

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