1. Air Freight
- Fastest option: transit times typically 2–8 business days
- Ideal for high-value, time-sensitive goods
- Example providers include Haulam, County Cargo, Africanies
- Pricing often starts around ₦5,500–₦10,750 per kg depending on service level and weight thresholds
2. Sea Freight (Ocean/Container)
- Most cost-effective for large cargo or bulk shipments
- Transit ranges from 15–50 days, depending on routing and port schedules
- Common ports: Tincan or Lekki in Lagos to New York and other U.S. ports, serviced weekly by carriers like Maersk and CMA CGM
📦 Cargo Types & Typical Pricing
- Small packages (air): As low as ₦5,500/kg for larger weight brackets; express options ~₦10,750/kg or more for lighter parcels
- Large freight (sea): 20-foot container shipping prices fluctuate—with quotes available per cubic meter or full container (FCL/LCL)
📑 Documentation & Compliance
To export goods from Nigeria, you need:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading (sea) or Airway Bill (air)
- Origin Certificate, Export License
- Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN) — mandatory and must be submitted at least 5 days before ship arrival to prevent fines or clearance issues
📋 Shipping Process Overview
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Choose Service & Provider | Decide between air freight (fast, higher cost) or sea freight (economical, slower). Providers include Haulam, County Cargo, Africanies, FWFreight, FGK Logistics |
| 2. Request Quote | Input weight, cargo type, origin and destination details to get online estimates |
| 3. Arrange Pickup or Drop-off | Many providers offer pickup across Nigeria or drop at hubs like Lagos |
| 4. Prepare Export Documentation | Provide invoice, packing list, ECTN application on time |
| 5. Customs Clearance (USA side) | Recipient or appointed customs broker handles clearance; duties may apply |
| 6. Delivery in USA | Some services offer door-to-door delivery to recipient’s address after arrival |
🏆 Why Businesses Use Travo.ng for Nigeria–US Cargo
- Access to both air and sea shipping options
- Transparent pricing and instant quote system
- Help with export documentation and ECTN filing
- Pickup throughout Nigeria with partnered carriers
- Door-to-door delivery options in the U.S.
✅ Tips to Optimize Your Cargo Shipment
- Use dimensional weight: carriers charge by actual vs volumetric weight—whichever is higher
- Compare transit and costs between faster air and economical sea options
- Ensure ECTN is processed at least 5 days prior to shipping to avoid customs delays or penalties
- Understand customs obligations: import duties in the U.S. depend on cargo type and value
🚀 Final Thoughts
Shipping from Nigeria to the USA is seamless when you choose the right transport mode and prepare paperwork correctly. Travo.ng can guide you through selecting air or sea freight, handling/export documentation, tracking shipments, and ensuring on-time delivery.
