Shipping Routes from China to Nigeria

Are you wondering what the most efficient Shipping Routes from China to Nigeria are for your business or personal needs? Understanding the best options for sea freight, air freight, express shipping, and door to door shipping can save you both time and money. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the main shipping routes, major ports, costs, transit times, and tips for choosing the right freight forwarder for your shipment from China to Nigeria.

Shipping from China to Nigeria

When shipping from China to Nigeria, choosing the right transport solution is vital for balancing cost, speed, and reliability. As a leading international logistics provider, we at Dantful.US International Logistics offer a full range of freight forwarding services, including sea freight, air freight, express, and door-to-door shipping. Let’s explore each shipping mode to help you make the best choice for your business.

Sea freight from China to Nigeria

Sea freight is the most common and cost-effective way to ship large or heavy cargo from China to Nigeria. It is suitable for both Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) shipments. With a wide selection of container types—such as 20FT (28CBM), 40FT (56CBM), 40HQ (68CBM), and 45HQ (78CBM)—sea freight accommodates diverse cargo sizes and requirements.

• Advantages:

  • Lowest cost per unit for bulk cargo.

  • Ideal for non-urgent, large, or heavy shipments.

  • Flexible schedules and port options.

• Limitations:

  • Longer transit times (typically 30–45 days, depending on route and port).

  • Requires advance planning and proper documentation.

• Popular services:

  • FCL/LCL options

  • OOG (Out of Gauge), Breakbulk, Consolidated freight

  • Port-to-port and door-to-door solutions

We recommend sea freight for importers, exporters, manufacturers, and e-commerce businesses dealing with large volumes or less time-sensitive goods.

Related reading: If you’re interested in other African routes, you may also want to explore Shipping From China To Kenya and Shipping From China To South Africa.

Air freight from China to Nigeria

When speed matters, air freight is the preferred solution for shipping to Nigeria. It’s ideal for high-value, perishable, or urgent cargo, and is commonly used by electronics, fashion, and parts suppliers.

• Advantages:

  • Fastest transit times (as short as 3–7 days from major Chinese hubs to Lagos or Abuja).

  • High security and minimal handling.

  • Reliable schedules and tracking.

• Limitations:

  • Higher cost per kilogram compared to sea freight.

  • Limited by cargo size, weight, and certain dangerous goods restrictions.

Our air freight services include airport-to-airport, door-to-door, and consolidated shipments, tailored for SMEs, e-commerce sellers, and businesses requiring rapid delivery.

Express shipping from China to Nigeria

Express shipping provides the fastest and most convenient way to move small parcels and urgent consignments. Major global couriers—such as DHL, FedEx, and UPS—operate regular express routes from China to Nigeria.

• Advantages:

  • Delivery times as quick as 2–5 days.

  • End-to-end tracking and customs clearance included.

  • Simple documentation, easy pickup, and delivery.

• Limitations:

  • Higher costs, particularly for heavier shipments.

  • Strict dimensional and weight limits.

Express shipping is best for samples, documents, electronics, and urgent e-commerce orders.

Door to door shipping from China to Nigeria

Door-to-door shipping is a comprehensive solution where we handle the entire logistics chain—from supplier’s warehouse in China to recipient’s address in Nigeria. This all-inclusive service covers pickup, consolidation, freight, customs clearance, and final delivery.

• Advantages:

  • Hassle-free process; we manage every step.

  • Can be applied to sea, air, and express modes.

  • Fixed, transparent pricing simplifies budgeting.

• Limitations:

  • May involve slightly higher service fees for the convenience.

Door-to-door shipping is perfect for SMEs, first-time importers, and businesses seeking a one-stop solution. At Dantful.US International Logistics, our experienced team provides reliable, cost-effective, and high-quality door-to-door logistics, including customs clearance and insurance services.

Further reading: Learn about specialized Door to Door Shipping from China to Nigeria for a seamless logistics experience.

Major Chinese Ports for Nigeria-Bound Shipments

Choosing the right Chinese port for shipments to Nigeria affects transit time, costs, and logistics efficiency. Below are the primary ports handling most exports to Nigeria:

Port Name	Location	Major Advantages	Main Routes to Nigeria
Shanghai Port	East China	Largest container port, excellent connectivity	Lagos, Tin Can, Port Harcourt
Shenzhen Port	South China	Proximity to manufacturing hubs, fast processing	Lagos, Onne, Apapa
Guangzhou (Nansha) Port	South China	Efficient for South China factories, modern facilities	Lagos, Tin Can, Port Harcourt
Ningbo-Zhoushan Port	East China	High handling capacity, competitive rates	Lagos, Onne, Apapa
Qingdao Port	North China	Good for North China exporters, specialized services	Lagos, Tin Can
Xiamen Port	Southeast China	Flexible options, efficient customs procedures	Lagos, Onne
Tianjin Port	North China	Access to Beijing/Tianjin region, extensive rail links	Lagos (mainly transshipment)

Key Considerations:

• Proximity to supplier: Choose the port nearest to your supplier’s factory to minimize inland transport costs.

• Sailing frequency: Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou have the highest frequency of Nigeria-bound vessels.

• Cargo type: For special cargo (OOG, breakbulk, reefer), consult with our experts for the best port and handling facilities.

At Dantful.US International Logistics, we leverage our network across all major Chinese ports to provide flexible consolidation, warehousing, and customs clearance solutions, ensuring your cargo moves efficiently from China to Nigeria.

Related services: Looking for other African shipping options? See our guide on Shipping from China to Morocco.

Key Nigeria Ports Receiving Shipments from China

When shipping from China to Nigeria, understanding the destination port options helps ensure smooth customs clearance and final delivery. As a highly professional and experienced international logistics provider, I always advise clients to select the port that best aligns with their cargo type, destination, and logistics needs.

Main Nigeria Ports Handling Cargo from China:

Port Name	Location	Description & Main Features	Suitable Cargo Types
Apapa Port (Lagos)	Lagos, Southwest Nigeria	Largest and busiest seaport in Nigeria, connected to industrial hubs.	All containerized & general cargo
Tin Can Island Port	Lagos, Southwest Nigeria	Close to Apapa, specializes in containers, RORO, and bulk cargo.	Containers, vehicles, bulk
Onne Port	Rivers State, South-South	Major oil & gas logistics hub, deep water, modern facilities.	Machinery, bulk, project cargo
Port Harcourt Port	Rivers State	Handles general, bulk, and container cargo; inland connections.	Breakbulk, containers, agro-products
Calabar Port	Cross River State	Ideal for Eastern Nigeria, handles breakbulk and smaller container loads.	Breakbulk, containers, dry cargo
Warri Port	Delta State, South-South	Industrial region, handles general cargo and containers.	General & containerized cargo

Apapa Port and Tin Can Island Port together serve over 70% of containerized imports into Nigeria from China due to their proximity to major markets and developed infrastructure. Onne Port is preferred for oil and gas equipment, large machinery, and projects due to deep water access and specialized handling capabilities.

Main Shipping Routes from China to Nigeria

Sea Freight Routes from China to Nigeria

Sea freight is the backbone of global trade between China and Nigeria due to its cost efficiency for large and heavy shipments. The most popular shipping routes leverage major container ports in both countries.

Typical Sea Freight Routes:

1. South China (Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Hong Kong) to Lagos (Apapa, Tin Can Island)

   • Transit Time: Approx. 35–42 days (FCL), 40–50 days (LCL)

   • Description: Most direct and frequent route, favored for electronics, textiles, and consumer goods.

2. East China (Shanghai, Ningbo) to Lagos (Apapa, Tin Can Island)

   • Transit Time: Approx. 40–45 days (FCL), up to 55 days (LCL)

   • Description: Suitable for manufacturing machinery, chemicals, and bulk commodities.

3. North China (Qingdao, Tianjin) to Lagos

   • Transit Time: Approx. 45–55 days (FCL/LCL)

   • Description: Often requires transshipment in Singapore, Port Klang (Malaysia), or Jebel Ali (UAE).

4. China to Onne/Port Harcourt/Calabar/Warri

   • Transit Time: Usually adds 7–14 days compared to Lagos routes due to feeder vessel schedules and possible transshipments.

   • Description: Ideal for oil, gas, and project cargo targeting South-South and South-East Nigeria.

Major Shipping Lines Serving These Routes:

• Maersk Line

• COSCO

• MSC

• CMA CGM

• Evergreen

Example Transit Time Table

Origin Port	Destination Port	Estimated Transit Time (FCL)	Transshipment?
Shenzhen	Apapa (Lagos)	35–40 days	Rare
Shanghai	Tin Can Island (Lagos)	40–45 days	Sometimes
Ningbo	Onne	48–55 days	Yes
Qingdao	Apapa (Lagos)	45–55 days	Usually
Guangzhou	Calabar	50–60 days	Yes

Note: Actual transit times depend on vessel schedules, seasonal congestion, and transshipment requirements.

Dantful.US International Logistics provides both Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) services, including door-to-door and customs clearance solutions from major Chinese manufacturing zones to all key Nigerian ports.

Air Freight Routes from China to Nigeria

For urgent, high-value, or time-sensitive cargo, air freight is the best choice. The fastest connections are typically from major Chinese cities to Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS) in Lagos.

Key Air Freight Hubs in China:

• Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)

• Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)

• Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)

• Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX)

Major Nigerian Airport Gateways:

• Lagos – Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS)

• Abuja – Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (ABV)

• Port Harcourt International Airport (PHC) (for special projects)

Typical Air Freight Routes:

Origin Airport	Destination Airport	Transit Time (Direct)	Major Airlines	Frequency
Guangzhou (CAN)	Lagos (LOS)	1–2 days	Emirates, Qatar Airways, Ethiopian	Daily–Weekly
Shanghai (PVG)	Lagos (LOS)	2–3 days	Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways	Several/week
Beijing (PEK)	Lagos (LOS)	2–4 days (not always direct)	Air China, Emirates	Weekly
Shenzhen (SZX)	Lagos (LOS)	2–3 days	Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates	Several/week

Note: Direct flights are limited; most cargo moves with 1–2 stopovers in Dubai, Addis Ababa, Istanbul, or Doha.

Air Freight Highlights:

• Transit Time: Typically 3–7 days door-to-door (including handling and customs).

• Cargo Types: Electronics, pharmaceuticals, fashion products, samples, perishables.

• Cost: Higher than sea freight; best for urgent or high-value goods.

Dantful.US International Logistics leverages strong partnerships with leading airlines and offers flexible air freight options, including express, consolidated, and door-to-door services, ensuring efficient delivery from any location in China to any location in Nigeria.

Professional Tips for Choosing the Right Route:

• For large or heavy shipments, prioritize sea freight to Apapa or Tin Can Island.

• For time-sensitive cargo, use air freight via Guangzhou or Shanghai to Lagos.

• Consider destination proximity to final delivery point: Onne and Port Harcourt are optimal for Nigeria’s southeast and oil industry.

• Always factor in seasonal congestion, customs efficiency, and local delivery arrangements.

For a tailored solution, comprehensive documentation support, and real-time tracking, choose Dantful.US International Logistics—your trusted partner for cost-effective, reliable, and high-quality shipping from China to Nigeria.

How much is shipping from China to Nigeria

Understanding the shipping costs from China to Nigeria is crucial for importers, exporters, cross-border sellers, and supply chain managers. Freight charges vary depending on shipping mode, cargo volume, weight, transit time, and value-added services. Below, I will break down the main shipping cost structures for sea freight, air freight, express shipping, and door-to-door services, with the most up-to-date and reliable information.

Cost of Sea Freight from China to Nigeria

Sea freight is the most cost-effective method for transporting large and heavy cargo. It is widely used for full container load (FCL) and less than container load (LCL) shipments.

FCL (Full Container Load) Sea Freight Rates

Container Type	Capacity (CBM)	Average Rate to Lagos Port (USD)	Average Rate to Onne Port (USD)	Remarks
20FT	28 CBM	$2,800 – $3,500	$3,200 – $3,900	Varies by carrier/season
40FT	56 CBM	$4,200 – $5,200	$4,700 – $5,800
40HQ	68 CBM	$4,500 – $5,600	$5,000 – $6,300	High cube for more volume

Note: Rates are subject to change due to market fluctuations, fuel surcharges, and peak seasons. For the latest quote, contact a trusted freight forwarder like Dantful.US International Logistics.

LCL (Less than Container Load) Sea Freight Rates

For shipments less than a full container, LCL is cost-effective:

Volume (CBM)	Rate to Lagos (USD)	Rate to Onne (USD)
1 CBM	$140 – $180	$160 – $210
5 CBM	$690 – $870	$790 – $1,050
10 CBM	$1,250 – $1,600	$1,400 – $1,950

LCL rates include ocean freight and basic charges but exclude destination charges, customs, and delivery fees.

Cost of Air Freight from China to Nigeria (per KG)

Air freight is ideal for time-sensitive and high-value goods. The cost is calculated per kilogram (KG) and depends on the cargo’s chargeable weight.

Route	General Goods Rate (USD/KG)	Min. Chargeable Weight	Transit Time
Guangzhou to Lagos	$5.50 – $8.00	45 KG	3 – 7 days
Hong Kong to Lagos	$6.00 – $8.50	45 KG	3 – 7 days
Shanghai to Lagos	$6.20 – $8.80	45 KG	3 – 7 days

Rates may vary for special cargo, dangerous goods, lithium batteries, or oversized shipments. For a tailored quote, please contact Dantful.US International Logistics.

Express Shipping Cost from China to Nigeria (per KG)

Express shipping is provided by international couriers like DHL, FedEx, and UPS. It is the fastest and most reliable mode for urgent or small shipments.

Company	0.5 KG (USD)	1 KG (USD)	5 KG (USD)	10 KG (USD)	Transit Time	Remarks
DHL	$65 – $75	$95 – $110	$420 – $480	$800 – $950	3 – 5 days	Door-to-door
FedEx	$62 – $70	$92 – $105	$410 – $470	$780 – $930	3 – 5 days	Door-to-door
UPS	$60 – $68	$90 – $100	$400 – $460	$770 – $910	3 – 6 days	Door-to-door

Bulk discounts or corporate rates may be available. Prices exclude import duties, taxes, and remote area surcharges.

Door-to-Door Shipping Cost from China to Nigeria

Door-to-door shipping combines freight, customs clearance, and local delivery. It offers a hassle-free solution especially for SMEs and e-commerce sellers.

Weight/Volume	Service Type	Rate (USD/KG or USD/CBM)	Typical Inclusions
1-50 KG	Air Door-to-Door	$7.50 – $10.50 / KG	Freight, customs, local delivery within Lagos/Abuja
51-200 KG	Air Door-to-Door	$6.50 – $9.50 / KG
1 CBM (Sea DDP)	Sea Door-to-Door	$480 – $620 / CBM	Freight, customs, delivery to Lagos
20FT FCL (Sea DDP)	Sea Door-to-Door	$4,300 – $5,100	Complete service to recipient’s address

DDP = Delivered Duty Paid. For specific requirements, dangerous or oversized cargo, rates may differ. Dantful.US International Logistics specializes in customized door-to-door solutions from China to Nigeria.

How long does it take to ship from China to Nigeria

Transit time is a key factor in choosing your optimal shipping route. It depends on the shipping mode, origin and destination ports or airports, and the efficiency of customs clearance.

Below is a summary table for the main shipping methods:

Shipping Mode	Origin Port/City	Destination	Estimated Transit Time	Remarks
Sea Freight (FCL)	Shanghai, Ningbo, Shenzhen	Lagos, Onne, Apapa	35 – 45 days	Includes ocean transit, customs, and local delivery
Sea Freight (LCL)	Shanghai, Ningbo, Shenzhen	Lagos, Onne, Apapa	38 – 50 days	May include extra consolidation/deconsolidation time
Air Freight	Guangzhou, Shanghai, Hong Kong	Lagos, Abuja	3 – 7 days	Direct flights or with transshipment
Express Shipping	Any major Chinese city	Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt	3 – 5 days	Fastest, door-to-door
Door-to-Door (Sea)	Any major Chinese city	Lagos, Abuja	45 – 55 days	Includes all processes: pickup, shipping, customs
Door-to-Door (Air)	Any major Chinese city	Lagos, Abuja	5 – 10 days	End-to-end, customs included

Key Notes:

• Sea freight times can be affected by port congestion, weather conditions, and customs clearance.

• Air freight and express are much faster but typically cost more per KG.

• Door-to-door saves time and effort as the logistics provider manages every step.

At Dantful.US International Logistics, we offer a complete range of services—from booking space, cargo consolidation, and customs clearance to final delivery—ensuring your goods arrive safely and efficiently, whether you prioritize speed or cost.

See also: Curious about other Africa region timelines? Check How Long does it Take to Ship from China to Kenya for a comparison.

For the latest rates, sailing schedules, and tailored advice for your China to Nigeria shipping needs, please contact us directly. Our professional team is ready to provide solutions that best fit your business supply chain.

How to choose the best shipping route for your shipment

Selecting the most suitable shipping route from China to Nigeria is a core decision for any importer, exporter, or supply chain professional. The right route directly impacts your costs, delivery speed, and overall supply chain reliability. Based on my experience at Dantful.US International Logistics, I recommend a systematic approach:

1. Analyze Your Cargo Characteristics

• Volume & Weight: If your cargo exceeds 2 CBM or 200 KG, sea freight is generally the most economical choice. For lightweight or urgent shipments, air freight or express shipping may be preferable.

• Type of Goods: Perishable, high-value, or time-sensitive goods often require air freight or even express solutions. For standard industrial or consumer goods, sea shipping is ideal.

• Packaging & Handling Needs: Fragile or specialized cargo may dictate your route choice.

2. Consider Your Timeline

• Delivery Deadlines: If you have a strict launch or production schedule, speed is critical. Air freight typically delivers within 3-7 days, whereas sea freight can take 30-45 days depending on the route and port congestion.

• Flexibility: If time is less critical, you can take advantage of slower, more cost-effective options.

Typical Transit Times from China to Nigeria

Mode	Average Transit Time	Suitable for
Sea Freight	30-45 days	Large, heavy cargo
Air Freight	3-7 days	Urgent, high-value
Express	2-5 days	Small, time-critical
Door-to-Door	7-15 days (varies)	Convenience, all-in-one

Note: Actual transit times depend on departure/arrival ports, carriers, and local customs clearance.

3. Evaluate Costs

It’s essential to balance speed and cost. Here’s a quick comparison:

Shipping Mode	Cost Range (USD)	Pros	Cons
Sea Freight	Lowest per CBM/KG	Economical, bulk cargo	Slow, complex documentation
Air Freight	Higher per KG	Fast, secure	Expensive, weight limits
Express	Highest per KG	Fastest, simplified process	Only for small shipments
Door-to-Door	All-in-one pricing	Convenience, reduced hassle	Slightly higher, not for all cargo types

Always get a detailed quote based on shipment size, weight, and service inclusions.

4. Assess Port and Route Options

• Origin Ports in China: Major ports like Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Ningbo offer frequent sailings and competitive rates for Nigeria-bound cargo.

• Destination Ports in Nigeria: Common entry points include Lagos (Apapa, Tin Can Island) and Onne Port.

Direct routes may cost more but save time; transshipment routes can reduce costs but add risk and delays.

Recommended reading: For door-to-door logistics to other major African markets, see our page on Door to Door Shipping from China to South Africa.

5. Regulatory and Documentation Requirements

• Ensure your route and mode of transport supports compliance with Nigeria Customs and Chinese export requirements.

• Specialized cargo (e.g., dangerous goods, electronics) may require additional documentation, affecting your route options.

6. Risk Management

• Consider insurance and tracking: Some routes and carriers offer enhanced cargo security and real-time tracking.

• Evaluate the reliability record of chosen carriers and ports.

7. Use a Professional Freight Forwarder

Partnering with a reputable freight forwarder like Dantful.US International Logistics can help navigate these complexities. We provide personalized route recommendations, competitive pricing, and end-to-end support tailored to your needs.

Choose a right freight forwarder

Selecting the right freight forwarder is equally vital to ensure your cargo’s safety, timely delivery, and compliance with international regulations. Here’s what I advise you to consider:

1. Industry Experience and Service Range

• Choose a partner with proven expertise in China-Nigeria shipping.

• Look for a company offering a full suite of logistics services: Sea Freight, Air Freight, Rail Freight, Road Freight, Amazon FBA, Warehouse, Customs Clearance, Insurance, Door to Door, OOG Freight, Consolidated Freight, Breakbulk Freight.

2. Certifications and Professionalism

• Verify the freight forwarder’s licenses, memberships, and reputation. A compliant partner ensures a smoother process and fewer regulatory issues.

3. Network and Partnerships

• A strong global network with reliable agents in both China and Nigeria guarantees better route options, competitive pricing, and problem resolution.

4. Pricing Transparency

• Request detailed quotations with clear breakdowns. Be wary of hidden fees or unclear terms.

5. Customer Support and Communication

• Responsive, multilingual support is vital. Your forwarder should provide real-time updates and proactive solutions during every stage.

6. Track Record for Reliability

• Examine reviews, case studies, and references. A forwarder with a history of punctual, safe deliveries is preferable.

7. Value-added Services

• Services like cargo insurance, customs clearance, and door-to-door delivery can save you time and resources.

Why choose Dantful.US International Logistics?

At Dantful.US International Logistics, we combine industry-leading expertise, cost-effective solutions, and comprehensive support for businesses shipping from China to Nigeria. Our tailored services help you optimize your logistics, minimize risks, and simplify the entire shipping process.

Our advantages include:

• Highly professional, multilingual team

• One-stop solutions from pick-up to delivery

• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees

• Advanced tracking and customer support

• Strong presence at major Chinese and Nigerian ports

Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you choose the best shipping route and service for your next shipment.

By following these guidelines and partnering with a trusted forwarder like Dantful.US International Logistics, you can ensure smooth, cost-effective, and reliable Shipping from China to Nigeria.