For businesses importing goods into Nigeria, door‑to‑port cargo delivery offers a streamlined approach that takes your shipment from the shipper’s location directly to a Nigerian port—such as Apapa, Tin Can Island, or Lekki Deep Sea Port. This option can be a cost-effective choice compared to door‑to‑door services.
1. What Is Door‑to‑Port Cargo Delivery?
- Definition: The shipment is collected at the origin and delivered to the destination port in Nigeria. From this point, onward transport and customs clearance are managed separately.
- Cargo Scope: Ideal for FCL (Full Container Load), LCL (Less than Container Load), groupage cargo, machinery, and heavy goods.
2. Key Nigerian Ports for Delivery
| Port | Description |
|---|---|
| Apapa & Tin Can Island | Long-established ports handling most imports via Lagos. |
| Lekki Deep Sea Port | Nigeria’s newest deep-water facility, operational since 2023, with capacity for 2.5 million TEUs annually and modern handling facilities. |
3. How Door‑to‑Port Services Operate
- Booking & Pickup: Freight forwarder or logistics partner collects cargo from your location.
- Export Documentation: Handles paperwork and customs export clearance at origin.
- Shipping & Transit: Cargo is transported via sea or air to a Nigerian port.
- Arrival – Port to Receiver: Once docked, you arrange customs clearance and further inland transport to your final destination.
Door‑to‑port is a standard shipping model for many international logistics firms operating between the UK, EU, US, China, and Nigeria.
4. Leading Providers Offering Door‑to‑Port Services
- MDS Cargo: Specializes in sea freight groupage services from the UK and EU to Nigeria with affordable CBM-based pricing.
- CargoAfrik, NationDelivery, Cabologistics: These companies offer flexible shipping packages that include door‑to‑port arrangements.
- EON Logistics, DocShipper, Netcargong, Valuehandlers: Experienced in handling full container loads and consolidated cargo to Nigerian ports.
5. Customs & Documentation Essentials
- Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN/CTN): Required for maritime imports into Nigeria. This must be issued before cargo arrival to avoid fines and delays.
- Import Documents: Include commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of analysis, and certificate of conformity. Proper documentation is key for smooth customs processing.
6. Transit Times & Cost Estimates
- Sea Freight (e.g., UK to Nigeria ports):
- FCL: Approximately 16–21 days.
- LCL or groupage: Roughly 21 days depending on consolidation schedules.
- Air Freight: Typically 3–7 business days, depending on the departure location and carrier.
- Pricing: Sea freight rates start around £150 per cubic meter or approximately £1.00–£1.70 per kilogram for consolidated cargo.
7. When to Opt for Door‑to‑Port vs. Door‑to‑Door
- Door‑to‑Port
- Suitable if you have a local agent or logistics partner in Nigeria.
- Cheaper than full door‑to‑door delivery.
- You handle port clearance and local delivery.
- Door‑to‑Door
- Recommended for those without local contacts or customs experience.
- Slightly more expensive but highly convenient.
- End-to-end logistics managed by provider.
8. Best Practices for Smooth Door‑to‑Port Delivery
- Specify the exact Nigerian port for delivery.
- Ensure timely issuance of the ECTN/CTN.
- Share accurate consignee and delivery information.
- Coordinate closely with your logistics provider on pickup and cut‑off times.
- Monitor shipment progress and prepare for quick customs clearance.
- Arrange inland transportation in advance to avoid demurrage.
🚀 Final Thoughts
Door‑to‑port cargo delivery to Nigeria is a flexible and cost-effective solution for importers who can manage customs clearance and inland delivery. With major ports like Apapa, Tin Can Island, and Lekki Deep Sea Port offering robust infrastructure, businesses can efficiently receive goods from global suppliers. Choosing the right freight partner and staying ahead of documentation and compliance ensures a smooth cargo experience.
