Shipping from China to Nigeria can be a complicated process, but with Airsupply Logistics, it becomes highly efficient and straightforward. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know:
Keep reading for all the details!
Shipping Cost from China to Nigeria
Air freight cost per kg from China to Nigeria
| Airline | POD | 100+ | 300+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| ET | KAN | $5.65/kg | $5.52/kg |
| TK | KAN | $7.45/kg | $6.68/kg |
LCL sea shipping rate from China to Nigeria
| POL | POD | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Shenzhen | Lagos | $30/CBM |
| Shenzhen | Apapa | $42/CBM |
| Shenzhen | Tincan | $47/CBM |
Container shipping cost from China to Nigeria
| POL | POD | 20GP | 40GP | 40HC |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shenzhen | Apapa | $4750 | $5850 | $5900 |
| Shenzhen | Lagos | $4800 | $5950 | $6050 |
Practical tips for optimizing shipping costs
- Consolidate multiple small shipments into one larger batch to reduce overall shipping expenses.
- Always factor in the total landed cost, including shipping, duties, and other fees, to get a clear picture of your budget.
- Get quotes from several forwarding agents for shipping from China to Nigeria and negotiate competitive rates.
- Keep in mind seasonal variations and shifts in exchange rates that could impact your shipping cost.
- Request a tailored shipping quote from ASLG that matches your specific shipping needs.
Shipping time from China to Nigeria
Below is a table outlining the estimated transit times for air and sea shipments from major Chinese ports to key Nigerian ports like Lagos, Tincan, and Apapa:
| POL | POD | Air freight | LCL sea freight | FCL sea freight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shenzhen | Lagos | 2-5 days | 50 days | 40 days |
| Shenzhen | Tincan | 3-5 days | 55 days | 47 days |
| Shenzhen | Apapa | 3-5 days | 55 days | 48 days |
Please remember that these are approximate shipping durations, which may vary due to weather conditions, chosen shipping routes, and port congestion.
You can check with us to ensure the most accurate and up-to-date shipping times from China to Nigeria.
Air freight from China to Nigeria
Typically, it takes around 3-7 days from China to Nigeria by air. If your business prioritizes speed and security over cost, especially for shipping high-value items, airfreight is an excellent solution.
- Standard Airfreight: This option is more affordable but slightly slower than air express services.
- Express Services: Carriers like DHL, FedEx, and UPS offer quick and reliable delivery services.
Air cargo from China to Nigeria generally follows a direct route, departing from major Chinese cities such as:
- Shanghai
- Beijing
- Guangzhou
- Shenzhen
And arriving at key Nigerian airports, including:
- Murtala Muhammed International Airport
- Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport
- Kaduna International Airport
Sea shipping from China to Nigeria
Sea freight is the most cost-effective option for large shipments, typically taking 6 to 8 weeks to reach Nigeria. While the transit time is longer, the significant savings for bulk goods make it popular. At ASLG, we offer various container types, including dry, reefer, open-top, 20’, 40’, and high-cube containers. Learn more about how container shipping works.
- Full Container Load (FCL): Ideal for larger shipments that fill an entire container.
- Less than Container Load (LCL): Perfect for smaller shipments that don’t require a full container, allowing you to share space with other shippers.
The main sea routes from China to Nigeria involve shipments departing from China’s major ports and arriving at Nigeria’s key seaports.
Major Chinese Ports:
- Shanghai Port
- Shenzhen Port
- Ningbo-Zhoushan Port
- Guangzhou Port
- Qingdao Port
Key Nigerian Ports:
- Lagos Port Complex (Apapa)
- Tincan Island Port
- Onne Port
- Port Harcourt
- Warri Port
Popular Shipping Routes:
- Shanghai to Lagos (Apapa/Tincan)– One of the busiest routes, as Lagos is Nigeria’s primary commercial hub.
- Shenzhen to Lagos– Frequently used for shipping electronics and manufactured goods.
Custom duties in Nigeria
In most cases, import duties and taxes are calculated based on the goods’ Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) value.
Types of Duties and Taxes in Nigeria
Basic Customs Duty (BCD)
It varies by product type, typically ranging from 5% to 35% of the CIF value. The specific rate is determined by the Harmonized System (HS) code classification of the goods. Essential items like raw materials may attract lower duty rates, while luxury goods are subject to higher rates. For example, the import duty on cars in Nigeria is 15%.
Value Added Tax (VAT)
In addition to customs duties, imported goods are subject to a Value Added Tax (VAT) in Nigeria. The current VAT rate is 7.5%, although certain items may be exempt or taxed at different rates based on government policies.
Excise Duty
Excise duties apply to specific goods such as tobacco and alcohol. The rates vary significantly and typically depend on the quantity or volume of the imported items.
Additional Levies
Other charges may include fees under the Comprehensive Import Supervision Scheme (CISS) and the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS).
Duty Exemptions and Concessions
Certain goods may be eligible for duty exemptions or reduced rates under specific conditions:
- Diplomatic Goods:Items imported by foreign embassies and diplomats may be exempt from duties.
- Raw Materials and Machinery:These goods often benefit from lower duties to encourage industrial development.
- Special Economic Zones (SEZs): Goods entering SEZs may enjoy duty reductions or complete exemptions to promote business and investment in these areas.
Smooth clearance to Nigeria
All shipments entering Nigeria must undergo customs clearance, usually completed within 1-3 days. This process, managed by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), ensures that goods comply with local laws and regulations.
Required Documentation
- Commercial Invoice: A detailed invoice from the seller, outlining the value of the goods.
- Bill of Lading or Airway Bill: Proof of shipment provided by the carrier.
- Packing List: A comprehensive list detailing the contents of the shipment.
- Certificate of Origin: A document verifying the country of origin of the goods.
- Import License: Required for certain restricted or regulated items.
- Form M: A mandatory document for all imports into Nigeria, used for tracking and regulating the importation of goods.
Tips for Smooth Customs Clearance
- Ensure accurate classification of goods using the correct HS code, which determines applicable duty rates.
- Double-check that all paperwork is complete and accurate to avoid processing delays.
- Consider working with a licensed customs broker or a reliable shipping agent like Airsupply to navigate Nigeria’s complex customs regulations.
- Stay informed on the latest customs regulations, as they frequently change, to avoid complications.
Cheapest shipping from China to Nigeria
There isn’t a “cheapest” shipping option—it largely depends on the type of goods, shipping methods you choose, and the total shipped volume. For small, lightweight shipments under 300kg, air freight can often be more cost-effective than sea freight. Moreover, dangerous goods will incur higher costs compared to general cargo when shipping by the same transportation.
To determine the most affordable shipping solution, you need to consider factors such as shipment size, delivery speed, and logistics needs.
Alternatively, you can partner with Airsupply, a leading logistics and freight forwarder specializing in international shipping, including routes from China to Nigeria. We collaborate with top shipping providers like Maersk Line and TK Airlines, enabling us to offer competitive rates for our clients.
FAQs:
What can I import from China to Nigeria for profit?
There are numerous products you can import into Nigeria. Popular items include human hair, industrial machinery, electronics, mobile phones, and various accessories, among many others.
What goods can’t I import from China to Nigeria?
Prohibited Items: Certain items cannot be imported at all, such as counterfeit currency, specific chemicals, and products made from endangered species.
Restricted Items: Some goods, including firearms, pharmaceuticals, and certain food products, are subject to strict regulations and require special permits or licenses for importation.
How long does shipping from China to Nigeria take?
Shipping times vary depending on the method used. You can expect transit times for sea freight to be between 30 and 45 days. In contrast, air freight is much quicker, with deliveries usually arriving within a week.
Is cargo insurance necessary for my shipment?
While most shipping companies offer basic liability coverage, it’s wise for you to invest in additional cargo insurance. This extra layer of protection can safeguard your goods against loss or damage during transit.
Can I track my shipment from China to Nigeria?
Yes, many shipping companies provide online tracking services. When choosing a shipping provider, ensure they offer tracking capabilities and that you receive a tracking number to monitor your shipment’s progress.
What are common issues or delays in the shipping process?
Several potential issues can arise during shipping, leading to delays. These may include customs clearance complications due to inaccurate documentation, shipping hold-ups caused by weather or logistical challenges, product quality concerns that require further inspection, and communication barriers with suppliers or shipping companies.
