Air freight from China to Nigeria

Are you looking for the most efficient way to handle air freight from China to Nigeria? Navigating the complexities of international shipping can be challenging, especially when considering factors like air shipping cost per KG, key airports, and import duties. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about air freight from China to Nigeria, including shipping routes, transit times, door-to-door services, and finding the right freight forwarder for your business needs.

Key airport in China and Nigeria

When it comes to air freight from China to Nigeria, understanding the major airports involved is crucial for optimizing transit time, cost, and overall shipping efficiency. Here’s an overview of the key airports in both countries:

Major Airports in China

China boasts a highly developed air cargo infrastructure, with several international airports serving as major hubs for freight forwarding:

Airport Name (English)	Location	IATA Code	Cargo Throughput (2023, Tons)	Key Features
Shanghai Pudong International Airport	Shanghai	PVG	~3,800,000	Largest air cargo hub in China; extensive routes to Africa
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport	Guangzhou	CAN	~2,000,000	Leading in South China; strong links to West Africa
Beijing Capital International Airport	Beijing	PEK	~1,800,000	Northern China’s gateway for international air freight
Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport	Shenzhen	SZX	~1,600,000	Tech hub; rapidly growing export volumes
Hong Kong International Airport	Hong Kong SAR	HKG	~4,300,000	World’s busiest cargo airport; flexible customs

Note: The above cargo throughput figures are indicative and subject to annual updates. These airports are well-equipped for handling various cargo types, including general cargo, e-commerce goods, perishables, and dangerous goods.

Major Airports in Nigeria

Nigeria is the largest economy in Africa and relies on several major airports for cargo imports from China:

Airport Name (English)	Location	IATA Code	Cargo Facilities	Notes
Murtala Muhammed International Airport	Lagos	LOS	Dedicated cargo terminals, bonded warehouses	Nigeria’s main international gateway; handles majority of air imports
Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport	Abuja	ABV	Cargo handling facilities, customs clearance services	Central Nigeria; strategic for inland distribution
Port Harcourt International Airport	Port Harcourt	PHC	Cargo terminals (smaller scale)	Supports Southern Nigeria; suited for oil/gas sector cargo
Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport	Kano	KAN	Basic cargo handling	Northwest Nigeria; serves commercial and agricultural hubs

Most air freight from China is routed through Lagos (LOS) due to its advanced infrastructure and proximity to commercial centers. However, for clients needing inland or regional delivery, Abuja and Port Harcourt are also significant.

For a broader perspective on shipping in Africa, you may also be interested in Shipping from China to Nigeria and related services such as Shipping From China To Kenya and Shipping From China To South Africa.

Popular Air Shipping Routes from China to Nigeria

Air freight from China to Nigeria operates on multiple direct and indirect routes, influenced by cargo airline schedules, customs policies, and demand. Here are the most common and efficient options:

Direct Air Cargo Routes

Direct flights significantly reduce transit time, which is vital for urgent shipments, high-value goods, and e-commerce:

Popular Origin Airport in China	Main Destination Airport in Nigeria	Typical Airlines*	Transit Time (Direct)	Frequency
Guangzhou (CAN)	Lagos (LOS)	China Southern Airlines, Ethiopian Cargo	1–2 days	3–5 flights/week
Shanghai (PVG)	Lagos (LOS)	Emirates SkyCargo, Qatar Airways	1–2 days	Multiple/week
Hong Kong (HKG)	Lagos (LOS)	Cathay Pacific Cargo, Turkish Cargo	1–2 days	Daily/Regular

Indirect/Transshipment Routes

Due to limited direct flight schedules and cost considerations, many shipments are routed via transshipment hubs (e.g., Dubai, Addis Ababa, Doha, Istanbul):

Route Example (Via)	Main Airlines	Estimated Total Transit Time	Advantages
Shanghai → Dubai → Lagos	Emirates, DHL Aviation	3–5 days	More flight options, flexible schedules
Guangzhou → Addis Ababa → Lagos	Ethiopian Airlines	3–4 days	Reliable transit, good for perishable and general cargo
Shenzhen → Istanbul → Lagos	Turkish Cargo	3–6 days	Broad network, frequent departures

Note: Actual transit times may vary depending on airline schedules, customs clearance, cargo type, and peak season congestion.

Important Considerations

• Cargo Consolidation: Many forwarders, such as Dantful.US International Logistics, offer cargo consolidation services to optimize costs and reduce delays, especially for small and medium-sized shipments.

• Customs Clearance Efficiency: Choosing the right airport and route can reduce customs bottlenecks and ensure faster release of goods.

• Special Cargo: Shipments with special requirements (temperature control, dangerous goods, etc.) may need to use specific hubs with proper facilities.

By understanding the key airports and popular air shipping routes, importers, exporters, and e-commerce sellers can optimize their supply chain, reduce transit times, and manage shipping costs more effectively when arranging air freight from China to Nigeria. For tailored logistics solutions, feel free to contact Dantful.US International Logistics—your trusted partner for global trade.

Air shipping cost from China to Nigeria per KG

When planning air freight from China to Nigeria, understanding the cost per kilogram is crucial for businesses seeking efficient and cost-effective logistics solutions. As a reputable freight forwarder, I always emphasize that air shipping rates fluctuate based on several variables, including the origin airport in China, destination in Nigeria, cargo type, weight, dimensions, seasonality, and the chosen service level (standard or express).

Key Factors Influencing Air Freight Rates

• Origin and Destination Airports: Rates differ between major gateways such as Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Guangzhou (CAN), Shenzhen (SZX) in China and Lagos Murtala Muhammed (LOS), Abuja Nnamdi Azikiwe (ABV) in Nigeria.

• Chargeable Weight: Air freight charges are calculated by actual weight or volumetric weight (whichever is higher), based on international air cargo standards.

• Cargo Type and Nature: General cargo is priced differently than hazardous, perishable, or high-value goods.

• Market Demand and Seasonality: Peak seasons (e.g., pre-Christmas, Chinese New Year) see higher rates due to increased demand.

• Transit Time and Service Level: Express and priority services command higher rates.

If you’re interested in comparing costs across other routes or want to understand different transit times, you might find it helpful to explore resources like How Long does it Take to Ship from China to Kenya or Shipping Cost from China to Kenya for East Africa.

Typical Air Freight Cost Per KG (2025)

Below is an estimated cost table for general cargo air freight from major Chinese airports to key Nigerian airports. Please note, these are indicative rates for standard services (excluding surcharges, fuel adjustment, and customs clearance fees).

Origin Airport (China)	Destination Airport (Nigeria)	100-300 kg (USD/kg)	300-500 kg (USD/kg)	500+ kg (USD/kg)
Shanghai (PVG)	Lagos (LOS)	6.50 – 8.00	6.00 – 7.50	5.50 – 7.00
Guangzhou (CAN)	Lagos (LOS)	6.30 – 7.80	5.80 – 7.30	5.30 – 6.80
Shenzhen (SZX)	Lagos (LOS)	6.70 – 8.20	6.20 – 7.70	5.70 – 7.20
Beijing (PEK)	Abuja (ABV)	7.00 – 8.50	6.50 – 8.00	6.00 – 7.50

Rates are for reference only (updated Q3 2025). Actual costs may fluctuate.

Note: For smaller shipments (<100kg), rates may be higher due to minimum chargeable weight policies. Additional charges such as fuel surcharges, security fees, and customs clearance are not included in the table above.

How long is air freight from China to Nigeria

Air freight is the fastest shipping method between China and Nigeria, making it ideal for time-sensitive shipments, cross-border e-commerce, and urgent industrial supplies. However, transit times can vary depending on directness of the flight, customs clearance speed, airline schedules, and the specific cities involved.

Typical Transit Times for Air Freight

• Direct Air Freight: Usually takes 3 to 5 days door-to-airport for major routes (e.g., from Shanghai, Guangzhou, or Shenzhen to Lagos).

• Indirect/Transshipment Services: May take 5 to 8 days, especially if flights are routed via intermediary hubs (e.g., Dubai, Addis Ababa, Istanbul) due to limited direct flight frequency.

• Door-to-Door Air Freight: Allow for an additional 1-2 days for pick-up, local delivery, and customs clearance at both origin and destination.

Air Freight Transit Time Table (2025)

Origin City (China)	Destination City (Nigeria)	Service Type	Estimated Transit Time
Shanghai (PVG)	Lagos (LOS)	Direct	3-5 days
Guangzhou (CAN)	Lagos (LOS)	Direct	3-5 days
Shenzhen (SZX)	Lagos (LOS)	Indirect/Transship	5-7 days
Beijing (PEK)	Abuja (ABV)	Indirect/Transship	5-7 days
Shanghai (PVG)	Port Harcourt (PHC)	Indirect/Transship	6-8 days

Times are for reference and may vary due to seasonal airline schedules, customs processing, and unforeseen delays.

Factors Affecting Air Freight Transit Times

• Flight Frequency: Availability of direct flights from the origin city to Nigeria.

• Customs Clearance: Efficient documentation and compliance can speed up or delay shipments.

• Cargo Type: Certain goods (e.g., hazardous materials) may require additional screening.

• Peak Seasons: During holidays or trade peaks, congestion may extend delivery times.

Our Commitment to Timely Delivery

At Dantful.US International Logistics, we prioritize timely cargo delivery. Our dedicated logistics experts help clients choose optimal flight schedules, manage customs clearance, and monitor shipments in real time. We offer both airport-to-airport and door-to-door air freight services from China to Nigeria, ensuring the fastest possible transit for your goods.

To learn more about comprehensive door-to-door solutions, you can read our guide on Door to Door Shipping from China to Nigeria.

If you need an accurate estimate for your specific shipment, contact our team with your cargo and routing details for a prompt consultation. We are committed to providing reliable, high-quality logistics solutions tailored to your business needs.

If you have more questions about air freight from China to Nigeria or want to optimize your supply chain, our team at Dantful.US International Logistics is ready to assist you with expert advice and professional service.

Import Tax and Duty in Nigeria

When importing goods into Nigeria by air freight from China, understanding the import tax and duty regulations is essential for compliance and cost management. As a professional freight forwarder, I always advise clients to account for these charges early in their logistics planning.

Main Types of Import Taxes and Duties

Tax/Duty	Description	Typical Rate
Customs Duty	Levied on the CIF (Cost + Insurance + Freight) value of imported goods	5% – 35%, depending on HS code
Value Added Tax (VAT)	Charged on most imports. Calculated as a percentage of the total landed cost (goods + duty + CISS + other fees)	7.5%
ETLS Levy	ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme levy, applicable for goods outside ECOWAS region	0.5%
CISS Fee	Comprehensive Import Supervision Scheme, for inspection and documentation	1%
Excise Duty	Specific products, such as alcohol or tobacco	Varies
Other Charges	Including port surcharges, customs processing, and handling fees	Varies

Note: The exact rates vary depending on the product’s Harmonized System (HS) code. Verify specific rates and regulations with Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) before shipment.

How Import Duty is Calculated

1. Determine Product HS Code: Every product has a unique HS code which dictates the duty rate.

2. Calculate CIF Value: Add up the cost of goods, insurance, and air freight charges.

3. Apply Customs Duty: Multiply CIF value by the applicable duty rate.

4. Add VAT and Other Levies: Calculate VAT on the total value (CIF + Duty + CISS, etc.).

5. Pay at Clearance: All import duties and taxes must be paid before goods are released.

Example Calculation (For General Goods)

Suppose you’re importing electronics with a CIF value of $10,000, a duty rate of 20%.

Item	Calculation	Amount ($)
CIF Value		10,000
Customs Duty (20%)	10,000 x 20%	2,000
CISS (1%)	10,000 x 1%	100
Subtotal	10,000 + 2,000 + 100	12,100
VAT (7.5%)	12,100 x 7.5%	907.5
Total Payable	2,000 + 100 + 907.5	3,007.5 taxes/fees

Key Considerations

• Prohibited/Restricted Items: Nigeria has strict import restrictions on certain goods, including counterfeit products, hazardous materials, and used electronics.

• Required Documentation: Ensure all necessary paperwork, such as Form M, Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR), Bill of Lading, and Clean Report of Inspection (CRI), are complete before customs clearance.

• Penalties: Incorrect declarations or missing documentation can result in delays, fines, or seizure.

If you need expert guidance on customs clearance, Dantful.US International Logistics provides comprehensive services, including customs brokerage and compliance consulting, to ensure your shipments from China to Nigeria are both efficient and compliant.

Door to Door Air Freight from China to Nigeria

Door to door air freight is an increasingly popular logistics solution for importers and exporters shipping goods from China to Nigeria. This end-to-end service covers the entire logistics chain—from your supplier’s facility in China to your doorstep in Nigeria.

What is Door to Door Air Freight?

Door to door air freight means your freight forwarder (like us at Dantful.US International Logistics) manages every stage of the shipment:

• Pickup from the Chinese supplier’s warehouse or factory

• Inland transportation to the origin airport in China

• Export customs clearance

• International air freight to the destination airport in Nigeria (e.g., Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos)

• Import customs clearance in Nigeria

• Delivery to the consignee’s address in Nigeria

Benefits of Door to Door Air Freight

Benefit	Description
Simplified Process	One provider manages all steps, saving you time and reducing complexity.
Cost Control	Transparent, all-in-one pricing (including local charges and destination fees).
Reduced Risk	Minimized handovers and streamlined communication for better cargo security and reliability.
Customs Assistance	Professional handling of documentation and compliance, reducing the risk of delays or fines.
Flexible Delivery	Service tailored for all shipment sizes—parcels, pallets, or full ULDs (Unit Load Devices).

For more information about this service, explore Door to Door Shipping.

Typical Door to Door Air Freight Process

1. Booking & Pickup: We coordinate with your supplier for cargo readiness and pickup.

2. Cargo Consolidation & Export Clearance: Goods are consolidated and cleared through Chinese customs.

3. International Air Shipping: Cargo is flown to Nigeria on the next available flight.

4. Import Clearance in Nigeria: Our team or local partners handle all customs formalities and duty payments.

5. Final Delivery: After clearance, goods are delivered directly to your specified address.

Estimated Door to Door Transit Times

Service Type	Estimated Transit Time (Days)
Standard Air Freight	5 – 7
Express Service	3 – 5

These times may vary depending on origin/destination, airline, and customs clearance efficiency.

How to ship from China to Nigeria by air

Shipping goods by air from China to Nigeria is a fast and efficient solution, especially for time-sensitive or high-value cargo. Below, I detail the step-by-step process for arranging air freight between these two countries, emphasizing practical tips and industry best practices.

Step 1: Identify Your Cargo and Shipping Needs

• Assess your cargo type: Is it general cargo, dangerous goods, temperature sensitive, or oversized?

• Determine shipment volume and weight: Airlines charge by either actual weight or volumetric weight—whichever is higher.

• Choose shipping terms: Decide whether you need airport-to-airport, door-to-door, or door-to-airport service.

Step 2: Select Reliable Freight Forwarder or Air Cargo Agent

Choosing a reputable freight forwarder in China is critical. They will handle bookings, documentation, customs clearance, and logistics coordination. Dantful.US International Logistics, for example, offers end-to-end air freight, customs clearance, and even door-to-door solutions, ensuring your goods reach Nigeria safely and on schedule.

If you also ship to nearby regions, see our guides on Shipping From China To Kenya and Shipping From China To Tanzania.

Step 3: Prepare Documentation

Proper documentation is essential for international air shipments. Typical documents include:

• Commercial Invoice

• Packing List

• Air Waybill (AWB)

• Export and Import Permits (if applicable)

• Certificate of Origin (if required)

• MSDS for hazardous cargo

Step 4: Booking and Cargo Pickup

• Your freight forwarder will book cargo space with airlines flying from major airports in China (e.g., Beijing Capital International Airport, Shanghai Pudong International Airport, Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport) to major airports in Nigeria (e.g., Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja).

• Dantful.US can arrange for cargo pickup from your supplier’s warehouse or your own facility.

Step 5: Customs Clearance & Security Checks

• In China, your freight agent will clear your goods for export, including inspection if required.

• Upon arrival in Nigeria, your local partner or Dantful.US handles import customs clearance, payment of duties/taxes, and delivery arrangements.

Step 6: Final Delivery

• After customs clearance in Nigeria, your cargo is delivered to your designated address, warehouse, or fulfillment center.

Summary Table: Typical Shipping Process

Step	Responsible Party	Notes
Cargo Assessment	Shipper, Freight Forwarder	Check size, type, and urgency
Freight Booking	Freight Forwarder	Secure space with airlines, arrange pickup
Documentation Preparation	Shipper, Freight Forwarder	Ensure all paperwork is accurate
Export Customs in China	Freight Forwarder, Customs Broker	Customs declaration, inspection if necessary
Air Transportation	Airline, Freight Forwarder	Transit time: ~3-7 days depending on service and route
Import Customs in Nigeria	Local Agent, Customs Broker	Duties, taxes, documentation check
Last-mile Delivery	Freight Forwarder, Local Carrier	Door-to-door or airport-to-door as required

Tips for Seamless Shipping

• Work with an experienced freight forwarder like Dantful.US for smooth communications and timely updates.

• Always confirm local import regulations in Nigeria to avoid delays.

• Consider cargo insurance for high-value shipments.

• Track your cargo using the AWB number through airline or freight forwarder portals.

Freight Forwarder in China

A qualified freight forwarder based in China is your key partner for successful international shipping. Here is what sets a professional freight forwarder apart and why choosing Dantful.US International Logistics is a smart choice.

Why Use a Freight Forwarder in China?

• Expertise in Export Procedures: Navigating Chinese export regulations, documentation, and customs requirements is complex. An experienced forwarder ensures compliance and fast processing.

• Access to Major Airlines and Routes: Established agents offer competitive rates with top airlines flying to Nigeria, optimizing cost and transit time.

• End-to-end Logistics Solutions: From warehousing, consolidation (for multiple suppliers), to final delivery, you benefit from streamlined operations.

Services Provided by Dantful.US International Logistics

As a highly professional, cost-effective, and high-quality one-stop international logistics service provider, Dantful.US offers:

Service	Description
Air Freight	Fast shipping for urgent/high-value goods from China to Nigeria
Sea Freight	Cost-effective for large shipments; complements air solutions
Rail Freight	Alternative for certain routes where available
Road Freight	Inland trucking, last-mile delivery in China and Nigeria
Amazon FBA	End-to-end logistics for Amazon sellers, including labeling and delivery to FBA warehouses
Warehouse	Storage, consolidation, and cargo management services
Customs Clearance	Full support for both China and Nigeria customs procedures
Insurance	Comprehensive cargo insurance for risk mitigation
Door to Door	Complete logistics from supplier in China to your address in Nigeria
OOG Freight	Handling of out-of-gauge (oversized) cargo
Consolidated Freight	Combine multiple shipments to lower costs
Breakbulk Freight	For large, heavy, or non-containerized cargo

How to Select the Right Freight Forwarder

When choosing your partner, consider:

• Proven expertise in both China and Nigeria trade lanes

• Transparent pricing with no hidden costs

• Ability to provide real-time shipment tracking

• Responsive customer service and problem-solving capabilities

Dantful.US International Logistics delivers on all these points, making us a preferred choice for global traders, importers, and e-commerce sellers.

FAQs

1. What is the typical transit time for air freight from China to Nigeria?

Air freight usually takes about 3–7 days, depending on the route, airline, and service level (direct vs. indirect flights).

2. What documents are required for air shipping from China to Nigeria?

You will need a commercial invoice, packing list, air waybill, and sometimes additional permits or certificates depending on your cargo type.

3. How are air freight charges calculated?

Charges are based on the greater of actual weight or volumetric weight (calculated as Length x Width x Height in cm ÷ 6000). Ask your forwarder for a precise quote.

If you have more questions or need a competitive quote for air freight from China to Nigeria, please contact Dantful.US International Logistics — your trusted, one-stop logistics partner for global trade.