Sea Freight: The Most Cost-Effective Route
For bulk imports, sea freight is far cheaper than air. Typical 2026 rates from China to Nigeria: FCL 20ft US$1,600–2,550, FCL 40ft US$2,025–4,050, and LCL US$40–90 per cubic metre. Transit time is 27–44 days depending on the route and port.
Routes and Ports
Main discharge ports are Apapa and Tin Can Island (Lagos), plus Onne, Port Harcourt and Calabar. Typical schedules: Shenzhen to Lagos 27–37 days, Shanghai to Lagos 29–39 days. For smaller first orders, LCL (shared container) keeps cost low while you test the market.
Air vs Sea
Air freight cuts transit to 5–10 days but costs far more per kilogram — best reserved for samples, urgent top-ups and high-value small parcels. Once your volumes justify it, switch to sea freight for the savings.
Door-to-Door and DDP
Many Nigerian importers prefer door-to-door / DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) freight, where one forwarder handles ocean freight, customs clearance and inland delivery. This removes the hassle of dealing with customs brokers and port demurrage. Get a delivered quote from CN9JA — we ship solar and phone accessories from China to Apapa, Tin Can and beyond with full documentation.