How to Ship Goods from Germany to Nigeria
Shipping goods from Germany to Nigeria involves a few clear steps.
From choosing the best transport method to handling paperwork and customs, planning well can save time and money.
This guide covers everything you need to ship goods safely and legally between the two countries.
1. Understand Your Shipping Options
- The first step is to pick a shipping method.
- There are two main options: air freight and sea freight.
- Air freight is fast but more expensive.
- Sea freight is cheaper but slower.
- Each method has benefits depending on what you are shipping and how soon it must arrive.
- For small, urgent items, air freight is best.
- For heavy goods or large shipments, sea freight is more cost-effective.
Be sure to compare the total costs, including packaging, transport to the port or airport, customs fees, and delivery in Nigeria.
Air Freight
- Air freight is the fastest way to ship from Germany to Nigeria.
- Goods usually arrive in 2 to 7 days, depending on the service.
- Airlines like Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines offer cargo services.
- You can also use express services like DHL, FedEx, or UPS.
Pros:
- Fast delivery
- Good for small and valuable items
- Frequent flights available
Cons:
- Higher cost per kg
- Limited space for large cargo
- Extra charges for fuel and security
Air freight is ideal for electronics, documents, or medical supplies.
Sea Freight
- Sea freight is more affordable for large shipments.
- Depending on the route and port congestion, it can take 3 to 6 weeks.
- Goods are shipped in containers, either full (FCL) or shared (LCL).
- Popular ports in Germany include Hamburg and Bremen.
- Goods arrive in Nigerian ports like Lagos (Apapa), Tin Can, or Port Harcourt.
Pros:
- Lower cost per kg
- Suitable for bulk and heavy items
- Less risk of weight-based surcharges
Cons:
- Slower delivery
- Risk of delay at customs or ports
- Requires more paperwork and planning
Sea freight is best for furniture, vehicles, and industrial equipment.
2. Choose a Reliable Shipping Company
Choosing the right shipping company can make your shipment smooth.
Look for a company with experience shipping from Germany to Nigeria.
Things to check:
- Do they handle both air and sea freight?
- Do they offer door-to-door or port-to-port delivery?
- Do they help with customs clearance?
- Do they provide tracking?
Top options include DHL Global Forwarding, Maersk, Gercam Freight, and local freight forwarders.
Read reviews and compare quotes.
Ask about insurance in case of damage or loss.
Always get a written agreement showing costs, timelines, and responsibilities.
3. Prepare the Right Documents
- Shipping goods across countries requires proper documentation.
- Missing or incorrect papers can cause delays or fines.
- Here are the key documents you need:
Commercial Invoice
- This is a bill for the goods being shipped.
- It lists the seller, buyer, item description, quantity, and value.
- Customs uses it to assess duties and taxes.
- Make sure it’s accurate and signed.
Bill of Lading
The Bill of Lading (B/L) proves that goods have been shipped.
It shows where the cargo is going and who is responsible for it.
There are two types:
- Air Waybill (for air freight)
- Ocean Bill of Lading (for sea freight)
You need this to collect your goods at the destination.
Export and Import Licenses
- Some items require export licenses in Germany.
- Check with German Customs (Zoll).
- In Nigeria, you may need an import permit.
- Register your business with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) or the Customs.
- Without these licenses, goods can be delayed or seized.
4. Know the Customs and Import Duties in Nigeria
Nigeria has strict import rules.
All shipments must be declared to Nigerian Customs.
You will need:
- Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- Form M (a pre-shipment import document)
- Certificate of Origin
- Clean Report of Inspection (for some items)
Import duties vary by product type.
- They are calculated based on the CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight).
- Extra fees may include VAT (7.5%) and surcharges.
- Check Nigeria Customs’ official website or work with a licensed clearing agent to avoid problems.
5. Calculate Shipping Time and Costs
Time and cost depend on the shipping method, size, and weight of your goods.
Average Shipping Times:
- Air freight: 2–7 days
- Sea freight: 4–6 weeks
Cost Factors:
- Weight and volume
- Shipping method
- Delivery service type (door-to-door or port-to-port)
- Insurance and customs fees
Use online calculators from shipping companies to get estimates.
Always ask for a full quote that includes hidden charges like port handling or storage fees.
6. Track and Receive Your Shipment
- Once goods are shipped, you should receive a tracking number.
- Most major carriers offer online tracking.
- Track your shipment to stay updated on delays or customs checks.
- When the goods arrive in Nigeria, you or your agent will clear them at the port.
- Make sure all fees are paid and the paperwork is in order.
- Then arrange the final delivery to your address or warehouse.
Final Tip:
Plan and double-check every step.
It will save you time, money, and stress.
