✈️ Air Freight
- Fastest option: transit typically 6–7 hours flight time, but delivery takes around 3–7 business days, including handling and clearance.
- Operates on main routes such as Lagos/Abuja to London and Manchester, served by passenger aircraft with cargo capacity.
- Ideal for high-value or urgent shipments.
🚢 Sea Freight (Container/Ocean)
- More economical for bulk or large cargo.
- Transit ranges from 18 to 30 days, depending on origin port (e.g. Lagos Tincan/Apapa or Lekki) and destination (UK ports; London Gateway).
- Weekly departures, often with one or more transshipment points.
📦 Cost & Cargo Considerations
- Air freight: better for small, urgent cargo; rate varies by weight, dimensions, and service level (standard vs express).
- Sea freight: cost-effective for full containers (FCL) or groupage shipments (LCL). Pricing typically based per TEU or cubic metre.
📑 Required Documentation & Regulations
To export cargo from Nigeria, these documents are typically required:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading (sea) or Airway Bill (air)
- Certificate of Origin, Export License if applicable
- Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN): mandatory. Must be applied for and submitted at least 5 days before vessel arrival; failure can result in fines or shipment delay.
🚛 Step-by-Step Shipping Process
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Choose mode & provider | Air freight for speed; sea freight for cost savings. Providers include Haulam and standard freight forwarders. |
| 2. Obtain quote | Provide cargo details, size, weight, origin and destination to platform or forwarder. |
| 3. Arrange pickup or drop-off | Many services collect from origin within Nigeria or accept cargo at major hubs. |
| 4. File documentation & ECTN | Submit required paperwork and track ECTN compliance well ahead of shipment. |
| 5. Customs clearance (UK side) | Import duties and taxes may apply; consider using a customs broker for clearance. |
| 6. Delivery in UK | Some providers offer door-to-door service across UK regions; others require pick‑up at port or depot. |
✅ Why Businesses Choose Travo.ng for Nigeria → UK Shipping
- Offers multiple modes: flexible air and sea freight options.
- Transparent, real‑time quote system.
- Guidance with export documentation and timely ECTN filing.
- Pickup and consolidation services within Nigeria.
- Delivery solutions in the UK: from port hand-off to full door delivery.
🧠 Tips for Efficient Cargo Shipping
- Compare air and sea: match urgency vs budget.
- Prepare packaging well: use sturdy boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and label clearly to reduce damage or inspection delays.
- Account for volumetric weight: some carriers charge based on volume over actual mass.
- Monitor ECTN deadlines to avoid customs penalties.
- Confirm recipient processes in the UK, including duties and delivery logistics.
🚀 Final Thoughts
Shipping cargo from Nigeria to the UK can be smooth when you select the right carrier, mode, and prepare all documents correctly. Whether using express air or full container sea services, Travo.ng can support your business with quotes, paperwork, tracking, and delivery coordination.
