Are you looking to understand how to ship containers from China to Nigeria efficiently and cost-effectively? Navigating the world of sea freight, container costs, and customs clearance can be daunting. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about shipping containers from China to Nigeria, including transit times, main ports, and choosing the right freight forwarder for your needs. Get ready to simplify your shipping process and make informed decisions!
Sea freight from China to Nigeria
When it comes to international logistics, sea freight remains the most cost-effective and reliable solution for shipping containers from China to Nigeria. At Dantful.US International Logistics, we provide comprehensive sea freight services designed to meet the diverse needs of global traders, manufacturers, cross-border e-commerce sellers, and SMEs.
Our sea freight solutions include both Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) options. Whether you’re shipping a full 20ft or 40ft container, or consolidating smaller shipments, we ensure your goods move securely and efficiently from origin to destination.
Key benefits of choosing sea freight with Dantful.US include:
Cost-effectiveness: Sea freight is the best choice for heavy or bulky cargo. Our global contracts with major shipping lines help us secure competitive rates.
Capacity flexibility: Choose from 20ft (28 CBM), 40ft (56 CBM), 40HQ (68 CBM), and even 45HQ (78 CBM) containers based on your cargo volume.
Comprehensive service: We offer full support throughout the process—pick-up, consolidation, port handling, customs clearance, insurance, and delivery.
Wide coverage: We handle shipments from all major Chinese ports to various Nigerian destinations.
Choosing the right type of container and shipping schedule is crucial. The following table summarizes the most common container options for shipping from China to Nigeria:
| Container Type | Internal Volume (CBM) | Typical Use Cases |
|---|---|---|
| 20ft | 28 | Small to medium shipments, heavy goods |
| 40ft | 56 | Medium to large shipments |
| 40HQ | 68 | High-volume, light goods |
| 45HQ | 78 | Extra high-volume, light cargo |
With sea freight, transit times are generally longer than air freight, but the significant savings make it the preferred choice for most businesses shipping containers from China to Nigeria.
Recommended reading: If you’re interested in Sea Freight from China to Nigeria, you can find detailed process and service information in our resource guide.
Main ports in China and Nigeria
Selecting the appropriate port of loading and discharge is a key factor in efficient shipping. At Dantful.US, we help our clients choose the best port pairings based on cargo location, destination, and cost considerations.
Major Ports in China
China has several world-class ports that serve as the primary gateways for exports to Nigeria:
| Port Name | Location | Main Strengths |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai Port | East China | Largest container port in the world; extensive routes |
| Shenzhen Port | South China | Ideal for electronics, near manufacturing hubs |
| Ningbo-Zhoushan Port | East China | High capacity, competitive rates |
| Guangzhou Port | South China | Access to Pearl River Delta industries |
| Qingdao Port | North China | Chemical, machinery, and auto exports |
| Xiamen Port | Southeast China | Excellent for small and medium-sized enterprises |
| Tianjin Port | North China | Gateway for North China |
When determining the best port of origin, consider proximity to your supplier, available shipping schedules, and cost competitiveness.
Main Ports in Nigeria
Nigeria is home to several strategic seaports that handle containerized imports from China:
| Port Name | Location | Main Strengths |
|---|---|---|
| Apapa Port (Lagos) | Lagos (Southwest) | Largest and busiest port; main entry for FCL/LCL |
| Tin Can Island Port | Lagos (Southwest) | Modern facilities; handles containerized cargo |
| Port Harcourt Port | Rivers State | Serves South and East Nigeria |
| Onne Port | Rivers State | Specialized in oil & gas, also general cargo |
| Calabar Port | Cross River State | Ideal for Eastern Nigeria |
| Warri Port | Delta State | Handles general and containerized goods |
Most shipments from China are routed through Apapa Port or Tin Can Island Port in Lagos, due to their capacity and connectivity. However, for cargo destined to Eastern or Southern Nigeria, Port Harcourt, Onne, or Calabar can be considered for time and cost efficiency.
Why port selection matters
Choosing the right port reduces inland transportation costs, minimizes transit times, and helps avoid congestion, which is common at some Nigerian ports. Our experienced team at Dantful.US will consult with you to determine the best shipping route and port combination for your specific needs.
For tailored advice or a free quote on shipping containers from China to Nigeria, feel free to contact us. As a highly professional, cost-effective, and one-stop international logistics service provider, Dantful.US International Logistics is committed to delivering seamless, reliable, and high-quality freight solutions.
Further reading: Explore Shipping Routes from China to Nigeria for an in-depth look at the most popular lanes and transit options.
Cost of Shipping Container from China to Nigeria
Shipping containers from China to Nigeria involves several cost factors that importers and exporters should carefully consider. The total cost depends on container size, shipping route, selected ports, seasonality, and service inclusions such as customs clearance or door-to-door delivery. Below, I’ll break down the costs for the most requested container types and provide up-to-date pricing reference tables for major port-to-port routes.
Cost of Shipping 20ft Container from China to Nigeria
A standard 20ft container (with a capacity of 28CBM) is popular for small to medium shipments. In 2025, the average ocean freight rate from major Chinese ports such as Shanghai, Shenzhen, or Ningbo to main Nigerian ports like Lagos (Apapa, Tin Can Island) generally ranges between $4,200 and $5,800 per container. This base rate includes ocean freight but may exclude additional fees such as documentation, port surcharges, and destination handling.
| Chinese Port | Nigerian Port | 20ft Container Sea Freight (USD) | Typical Transit Time (Days) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | Lagos (Apapa) | $4,200 – $5,000 | 35 – 41 |
| Shenzhen | Lagos (Tin Can) | $4,400 – $5,200 | 36 – 42 |
| Ningbo | Lagos (Apapa) | $4,300 – $5,100 | 36 – 43 |
Note: Rates do not include customs, inland transportation, or insurance. Prices fluctuate due to peak season, currency exchange, and global container demand.
Cost of Shipping 40ft Container from China to Nigeria
For larger shipments, a 40ft container (capacity: 56CBM) or 40ft High Cube (40HQ, capacity: 68CBM) is preferred. The average cost to ship a 40ft container in 2025 ranges from $7,200 to $8,800, depending on the ports and current market rates.
| Chinese Port | Nigerian Port | 40ft Container Sea Freight (USD) | 40HQ Container Sea Freight (USD) | Typical Transit Time (Days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | Lagos (Apapa) | $7,200 – $8,000 | $7,400 – $8,200 | 35 – 41 |
| Shenzhen | Lagos (Tin Can) | $7,400 – $8,200 | $7,600 – $8,400 | 36 – 42 |
| Ningbo | Lagos (Apapa) | $7,300 – $8,100 | $7,500 – $8,300 | 36 – 43 |
Tip: If your load volume exceeds 28CBM but is less than 56CBM, consolidating your cargo to fully utilize the 40ft container can help reduce the per-unit shipping cost.
Additional Cost Factors:
Port Charges & Local Fees: Each port may collect handling, documentation, and security fees.
Customs Clearance: Costs vary by value and type of goods.
Inland Transportation: Delivery to/from the port is billed separately.
Insurance: Highly recommended for international shipments.
Peak Season Surcharges: Rates rise during Q3 and Q4 or due to global demand fluctuations.
For precise quotes tailored to your cargo type, route, and service requirements, I recommend reaching out to a trusted freight forwarder like Dantful.US International Logistics. We offer transparent pricing and end-to-end logistics support.
Sea Freight Transit Time from China to Nigeria
Transit time is a critical factor for planning inventory and supply chains. On average, sea freight shipping from China to Nigeria takes between 35 to 45 days, depending on the origin and destination ports, as well as shipping schedules and transshipment requirements.
| Route | Typical Transit Time (Days) |
|---|---|
| Shanghai to Lagos (Apapa) | 35 – 41 |
| Ningbo to Lagos (Apapa) | 36 – 43 |
| Shenzhen to Lagos (Tin Can) | 36 – 42 |
| Qingdao to Lagos (Apapa) | 38 – 45 |
| Guangzhou to Lagos (Tin Can) | 37 – 44 |
Influencing Factors:
Vessel Routing: Some sailings may include transshipments, adding several days.
Port Congestion: Both Chinese and Nigerian ports face occasional congestion, which can lead to delays.
Shipping Line Schedules: Not all routes have weekly direct service; some may require waiting for available vessels.
Customs Inspections: Delays during customs clearance can impact overall delivery time.
Recommendations:
Always plan shipping schedules with buffer time.
Consider working with a reliable freight forwarder who can advise on the latest sailing schedules and help manage any unforeseen delays.
For urgent shipments, air freight may be considered, though it is significantly more expensive than sea freight.
At Dantful.US International Logistics, we provide real-time shipment tracking, efficient documentation support, and proactive updates to minimize transit risks and optimize your supply chain from China to Nigeria.
If you need a customized quote, have concerns about shipping schedules, or seek professional logistics solutions including door-to-door, customs clearance, or insurance, do not hesitate to contact us. As a highly professional, cost-effective, and high-quality global freight forwarder, Dantful.US International Logistics is your one-stop partner for all international shipping needs.
Related resource: See our comprehensive Shipping from China to Nigeria guide for more insights on costs and procedures.
Port to port shipping from China to Nigeria
When considering port-to-port shipping from China to Nigeria, it’s essential to understand how this service works and why it’s a popular choice for many businesses. Port-to-port shipping refers to the transportation of goods from a designated departure port in China to an arrival port in Nigeria. This is an economical and efficient solution, particularly for those who have the capability to manage pre-carriage (from supplier to port) and on-carriage (from destination port to final address) themselves.
How Port-to-Port Shipping Works
Booking and Documentation: The process begins with booking space on a vessel, often through a reliable freight forwarder like Dantful.US International Logistics. Required shipping documents (such as the bill of lading, commercial invoice, and packing list) are prepared.
Container Stuffing: Goods are loaded into containers at the supplier’s warehouse or a dedicated facility, then transported to the export port in China.
Export Procedures: At the Chinese port (such as Shanghai, Shenzhen, or Ningbo), export customs clearance is completed before the cargo is loaded onto the vessel.
Ocean Transit: The container is shipped by sea to the chosen port in Nigeria, for example, Lagos (Apapa Port, Tin Can Island Port) or Onne Port.
Arrival and Import Procedures: Once the vessel arrives, the container is unloaded, and customs clearance at the destination port is carried out before the consignee arranges for pickup or onward transportation.
Major Port Pairs for Shipping
| China Origin Port | Nigerian Destination Port | Typical Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | Lagos (Apapa/Tin Can) | General cargo, FCL/LCL |
| Ningbo | Onne | Machinery, bulk goods |
| Shenzhen | Lagos | Electronics, textiles |
| Qingdao | Onne | Industrial products |
Advantages of Port-to-Port Shipping
Cost-Effective: Lower cost compared to door-to-door services, as you only pay for the ocean freight and port handling.
Flexibility: Ideal for buyers who have experience with local transportation and customs at the destination.
Customization: You can choose your preferred carriers, sailing schedules, and handle local logistics as needed.
Considerations
Responsibility Split: With port-to-port shipping, you take responsibility for arranging inland transport and customs clearance at both the origin and destination.
Additional Fees: Be mindful of destination terminal handling charges (DTHC), demurrage, and storage fees if the container isn’t picked up in time.
Transit Time: Typical ocean transit time from main Chinese ports to Lagos ranges from 30 to 45 days, depending on routing and shipping line.
For customers seeking reliable port-to-port shipping solutions, Dantful.US International Logistics offers tailored services with transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and experienced support throughout the shipping process.
If you want to compare port-to-port with other delivery modes, check out our Door to Door Shipping from China to Nigeria solutions for even more convenience.
Customs Clearance of China to Nigeria shipping
Customs clearance is a critical step when shipping containers from China to Nigeria. Efficient handling of import and export procedures ensures timely delivery and helps avoid costly delays or penalties.
Customs Clearance in China
Before your cargo leaves China, it must pass through export customs clearance. The exporter (or appointed freight forwarder) is responsible for:
Export License & Documentation: Ensuring all necessary permits and shipping documents are complete, including the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading.
Customs Declaration: Filing the correct HS codes, declaring the value and quantity of goods, and paying any applicable export duties or taxes.
Inspection & Quarantine: Certain cargo may be subject to inspection, fumigation, or quality checks, depending on the product type and destination requirements.
Customs Clearance in Nigeria
Upon arrival at a Nigerian port, your shipment must be cleared through Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). This involves several steps:
Submission of Import Documentation: Importers need to provide a Bill of Lading, Form M (mandatory for all imports), commercial invoice, packing list, and potentially a SONCAP certificate for regulated products.
PAAR Processing: The Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) is processed by NCS to assess the shipment and calculate applicable duties and taxes.
Duty and Tax Payment: Payment of import duties, Value Added Tax (VAT), and any other statutory charges as determined by NCS.
Physical Examination: Nigerian customs may conduct a physical inspection to verify the cargo matches the documentation.
Release of Cargo: Once all payments and verifications are complete, customs issues a release order, and the container can be picked up for final delivery.
Common Challenges and Tips
| Challenge | Solution/Tip |
|---|---|
| Incomplete or incorrect documentation | Work with experienced freight forwarders like Dantful.US |
| Delays in PAAR or SONCAP processing | Begin documentation early and confirm regulatory requirements |
| Unexpected customs inspections | Ensure cargo description and packing are accurate and compliant |
| Import duty calculation disputes | Double-check product classification (HS codes) and values |
By understanding port-to-port shipping procedures and the customs clearance process, you can streamline your supply chain and avoid unnecessary delays. For a seamless, professional shipping experience, consider partnering with Dantful.US International Logistics—your trusted expert for global freight forwarding between China and Nigeria.
Step-by-step guide to ship container from China to Nigeria
Shipping containers from China to Nigeria involves several crucial steps. Understanding each stage helps ensure a smooth, cost-effective, and timely delivery of your cargo. Here’s a comprehensive, step-by-step guide I follow and recommend to our clients:
Cargo Preparation and Packing
Start by confirming the type and volume of goods you want to ship.
Select the right container size: typically, a 20ft container (capacity: 28CBM) or 40ft container (capacity: 56CBM) is used for general cargo.
Ensure your goods are professionally packed, palletized, and labeled to meet international shipping standards. This minimizes damage and speeds up customs clearance.
Choose a Suitable Freight Forwarder
Partner with an experienced and reliable freight forwarder. At Dantful.US International Logistics, I provide end-to-end support, including documentation, space booking, and multimodal transport solutions. Our services cover Sea Freight, Air Freight, Rail Freight, Road Freight, Customs Clearance, Insurance, and more.
Get a Shipping Quote and Book Space
Request a detailed quote based on container type, cargo details, origin port in China, and destination port in Nigeria—common routes include Shanghai/Ningbo/Shenzhen to Lagos or Onne.
Compare transit times, rates, and included services.
Once satisfied, confirm your booking.
Prepare Shipping Documents
Organize essential paperwork:
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Bill of Lading (B/L)
-
Commercial Invoice
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Packing List
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Export/Import Licenses
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Certificates of Origin (if required)
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Bill of Lading (B/L)
Commercial Invoice
Packing List
Export/Import Licenses
Certificates of Origin (if required)
We at Dantful.US provide document verification to prevent delays at customs.
Cargo Delivery to Chinese Port and Customs Export Clearance
Transport your container to the port (or arrange pickup via your freight forwarder).
Complete export customs procedures in China. Our team can handle export declarations and ensure compliance with all Chinese regulations.
Sea Shipping and Tracking
Your container is loaded aboard the vessel and begins its journey to Nigeria.
We provide real-time tracking and proactive updates throughout the shipment.
Arrival at Nigerian Port and Import Customs Clearance
On arrival at the Nigerian port (e.g., Lagos Apapa, Tin Can Island, Onne), the shipment undergoes import customs clearance.
Provide all required documents to local authorities.
Payment of duties, VAT, and other charges must be handled at this stage. Our local partners can assist to ensure compliance and quick release.
Port Handling and Final Delivery
Once customs clearance is completed, arrange for container collection.
Choose between port pickup or last-mile delivery to your warehouse, office, or consignee address.
Dantful.US offers flexible delivery solutions across Nigeria, including door-to-door and insured transport.
Key Documents Required for Shipping from China to Nigeria
| Document Type | Description | Issued by |
|---|---|---|
| Bill of Lading (B/L) | Shipping contract & cargo receipt | Carrier/Freight Forwarder |
| Commercial Invoice | Details the goods and transaction value | Exporter |
| Packing List | Detailed itemization of shipment | Exporter |
| Certificate of Origin | Proves country of manufacture (if required) | Chamber of Commerce |
| Export License | Authorization for export from China | Exporter/Chinese Customs |
| Import License | Authorization for import into Nigeria | Nigerian Importer |
Freight forwarder from China to Nigeria
Choosing the right freight forwarder is vital for successful container shipping from China to Nigeria. Here’s what you should consider, and why I recommend Dantful.US International Logistics for your shipments.
What to Look for in a Freight Forwarder:
Industry Experience: Your partner should have deep knowledge of both the Chinese and Nigerian logistics landscapes, covering major ports, customs requirements, and transport networks.
Comprehensive Services: Look for a provider who offers a full spectrum of services:
Sea Freight (FCL/LCL)
Air Freight
Rail Freight
Road Freight
Amazon FBA shipping
Warehousing
Customs Clearance
Cargo Insurance
Door-to-Door delivery
OOG and Breakbulk Freight
Consolidated Shipping
Cost-efficiency and Transparency: Competitive rates, transparent pricing, and no hidden fees are musts.
Cargo Tracking and Customer Support: Real-time tracking and professional customer service ensure you always know your shipment status.
Strong Local Networks: An established network in both China and Nigeria helps resolve issues quickly, whether at origin or destination.
Why Choose Dantful.US International Logistics?
At Dantful.US, I am proud to represent a team known for professionalism, reliability, and competitive pricing. Here’s what sets us apart:
One-Stop Solution: We provide everything from container booking, multimodal transport, customs clearance, warehousing, to door delivery.
Expertise in China–Nigeria Trade: Years of hands-on experience with China to Nigeria routes, ensuring compliance and efficiency at every step.
Tailored Logistics Solutions: We design shipping plans based on your cargo, schedule, and budget, including specialized services for Amazon FBA, OOG, and breakbulk shipments.
Transparent Quoting & Tracking: Our clear, upfront pricing and 24/7 online tracking give you complete control and peace of mind.
Trusted by Global Traders: We serve importers, exporters, manufacturers, e-commerce sellers, and SMEs—helping clients minimize risks, optimize costs, and expand their global reach.
If you are shipping to other African countries, you might also find our Shipping From China To Kenya and Shipping From China To South Africa guides useful for regional logistics insights.
In summary, partnering with Dantful.US International Logistics means your shipments from China to Nigeria are handled by experts—professionally, efficiently, and cost-effectively. For a tailored quote or free consultation, feel free to contact our team today.
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