Updated 28 September 2026 · Travo.ng
Quick answer
The best-known courier companies in Nigeria in 2026 are DHL Express, FedEx (provided through its Nigerian licensee Red Star Express), UPS, GIG Logistics (GIGL), CourierPlus and NIPOST EMS, with app-based services such as Sendbox and Kwik for e-commerce and same-day city deliveries. The right one depends on whether you are sending locally, across states or abroad, and how fast it needs to arrive.
Nigeria has hundreds of courier and dispatch businesses, from global express networks to one-rider operations on Instagram. For most people, the choice comes down to a shortlist of established names. This guide compares the main courier companies using what each company says about its own services, gives the latest published price indications, and explains how to pick the right one for your parcel.
Top courier companies in Nigeria at a glance
| Company | Best for | Key facts (from the company) |
|---|---|---|
| DHL Express | International documents and parcels | Express shipping with import and export options; service point locator on dhl.com |
| FedEx (via Red Star Express) | International express | Red Star Express describes itself as a licensee of FedEx in Nigeria |
| UPS | International express for businesses | Nigeria site offers quotes, shipping and tracking for domestic and international deliveries |
| GIG Logistics (GIGL) | Interstate parcels and e-commerce | 170+ experience centres, all 36 states, GoFaster express in 24–48 hours, exports to 230+ locations |
| CourierPlus | Business and interstate courier | Over 45 locations in Nigeria, international delivery to over 190 countries, in business since 2009 |
| NIPOST EMS | Budget and nationwide postal parcels | EMS parcels, online track and trace and a tariff calculator |
| Sendbox | Online and social sellers | Local and international shipping for personal and business use |
| Kwik | Same-day city delivery | Bike, van and truck delivery; its site cites deliveries within 2 hours in Lagos |
Sources: each company’s own website, accessed September 2026. Services and coverage change, so check with the company before you send.
1. DHL Express
DHL is the default choice for many Nigerians sending documents and parcels abroad. On its Nigeria website, DHL offers express document and package shipping, including next-possible-business-day options and flexible import and export services. DHL Global Forwarding handles heavier cargo by air, road, ocean and rail. You can find a drop-off point with DHL’s service point locator. For country-specific prices, see our guides to DHL prices from Nigeria to Canada and to Germany.
2. FedEx, through Red Star Express
Red Star Express says on its website that it is a licensee of FedEx in Nigeria. The group also runs Red Star Logistics (haulage and supply chain), Red Star Freight (freight and customs brokerage) and Red Star Support Services. FedEx’s Nigeria rates page says export and import rates rose from 5 January 2026, and it lists surcharges such as a dynamic fuel surcharge linked to jet fuel prices, USD 26.8 per package for additional handling and USD 11.2 for Saturday delivery. Read more in our guide to how FedEx delivery works in Nigeria.
3. UPS
UPS runs a Nigeria website where you can get a quote, ship and track domestic and international deliveries, and business customers can use UPS My Choice for Business. UPS is mostly used for international express and business accounts. See our UPS Nigeria guide.
4. GIG Logistics (GIGL)
GIGL is one of the largest local networks. The company says it has more than 170 experience centres, operates in all 36 states, and exports to more than 230 locations. Its GIGGo app lets you book pickups and track shipments, and its GoFaster service promises express delivery across Nigeria in 24 to 48 hours.
A price guide published by brands.ng in May 2026 gives these indications for GIGL:
| Route or service | Up to 2kg | 3–5kg | Over 5kg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Within a city | ₦3,000–₦5,000 | ₦5,000–₦7,500 | ₦7,500+ |
| Lagos to Abuja | ₦6,000–₦9,000 | ₦9,000–₦12,000 | ₦12,000–₦18,000+ |
| Lagos to Port Harcourt | ₦7,000–₦10,000 | ₦10,000–₦13,000 | ₦13,000–₦18,000+ |
| Lagos to Kano | ₦7,000–₦11,000 | ₦11,000–₦14,000 | ₦14,000–₦20,000+ |
Source: brands.ng GIG Logistics price list 2026 (22 May 2026, updated June 2026). The same guide gives international starting prices of about ₦50,000+ to Ghana, ₦80,000+ to the UK or Europe and ₦100,000+ to the USA or Canada. Door-to-door delivery can cost extra.
5. CourierPlus
CourierPlus has been in distribution and logistics since 2009. It says it operates from over 45 locations across Nigeria and delivers to over 190 countries through its international express service. It offers same-day delivery to selected airport cities for shipments received before 10:00am. Its head office is on Concord Way, off Airport Road, Ikeja.
6. NIPOST EMS
The Nigerian Postal Service offers EMS parcels, mail and e-commerce logistics, with a nationwide network of post offices. NIPOST provides an online track-and-trace tool and a tariff calculator on its website. It is often a lower-cost option for non-urgent parcels, especially to smaller towns.
7. Sendbox
Sendbox serves e-commerce and social-commerce sellers, with local and international shipping for personal and business use. You can request a pickup from yourself or from a seller and have the item delivered where you need it.
8. Kwik
Kwik offers bike, van and truck delivery, fulfilment through KwikShelf and business fleet tools. Its website cites deliveries within 2 hours in Lagos and lists Lagos, Abuja and Ibadan as locations. Check current coverage in the app before you rely on it.
How to choose the right courier
| What you are sending | Good options |
|---|---|
| Documents or small parcels abroad, urgent | DHL Express, FedEx (Red Star), UPS |
| Parcels between Nigerian states | GIGL, CourierPlus, NIPOST EMS, or Travo interstate delivery |
| Same-day delivery within a city | Dispatch riders or app-based services such as Kwik, or Travo same-day delivery |
| Many small e-commerce orders | GIGL e-commerce plans, Sendbox, or an API integration |
| Large or heavy items | A van or truck booking rather than a standard courier |
Travo guide based on the services each company lists.
- Speed: Express networks are fastest abroad; within Nigeria, same-city riders beat interstate networks for urgent items.
- Price: Always compare a quote for your actual weight and dimensions. Couriers charge by the higher of actual and volumetric weight.
- Coverage: Check the courier delivers to the destination town, not just the state capital.
- Tracking and proof of delivery: Useful for business shipments and valuable items.
- Insurance: Ask about cover for high-value items; standard liability is often limited.
How to send a parcel safely
- Pack items firmly in a strong box, with padding for anything fragile.
- Write the full address and a reachable phone number for the recipient.
- Declare the contents honestly. Customs and couriers can refuse or hold undeclared items.
- Check the courier’s list of prohibited items. Cash, for example, should not be sent in a parcel. See can you send money in a DHL package.
- Keep the receipt and tracking number, and share the tracking number with the recipient.
Scam warning
Fake “courier” messages are common. Scammers send SMS or WhatsApp messages claiming a parcel is held and asking for a customs or delivery fee by bank transfer. Check the tracking number on the courier’s official website or app, and never pay into a personal account. Red Star Express, for example, gives an official email for fraud reports on its website.
Send a parcel today
Book a pickup for same-day, interstate or international delivery with Travo, or ask us on WhatsApp which option fits your parcel.
Frequently asked questions
Which is the best courier company in Nigeria?
There is no single best. DHL, FedEx (Red Star) and UPS are strongest for international express; GIGL, CourierPlus and NIPOST EMS cover interstate parcels; app-based services like Kwik and Sendbox suit city and e-commerce deliveries.
Who handles FedEx in Nigeria?
Red Star Express describes itself on its website as a licensee of FedEx in Nigeria.
How much does GIGL charge from Lagos to Abuja?
A May 2026 price guide gives ₦6,000–₦9,000 for up to 2kg and ₦9,000–₦12,000 for 3–5kg. Confirm the exact price in the GIGGo app.
Which courier is cheapest in Nigeria?
For non-urgent parcels, NIPOST EMS and local networks are usually cheaper than international express brands. Compare quotes for your exact weight and route.
How can I track my parcel?
Use the tracking number on the courier’s own website or app. See our guide to tracking a package with a tracking number.
Can I send parcels to other countries from Nigeria?
Yes. DHL, FedEx (Red Star), UPS, GIGL, CourierPlus and Sendbox all offer international shipping.
Related guides
- Same-day delivery with Travo
- International shipping with Travo
- Top 10 logistics companies in Nigeria
- Best delivery services in Lagos
- Track a package with a tracking number
Sources: Company websites of DHL, Red Star Express, FedEx Nigeria, UPS Nigeria, GIG Logistics, CourierPlus, NIPOST, Sendbox and Kwik (accessed September 2026); brands.ng GIGL price list (May 2026). Travo is a booking and logistics platform and is not an agent or partner of any courier listed. Fares and prices change often — confirm before you travel or pay.
