The Ultimate Guide to Shipping from China to Nigeria: Ports, Airports, and Costs

As Africa’s largest economy and most populous country, Nigeria is a powerhouse of trade and a vital partner for businesses around the world, especially China. For anyone looking to export goods from China to Nigeria, understanding the logistics landscape is the first step toward success.

Navigating ports, airports, and shipping options can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about shipping from China to Nigeria, from key port codes to freight costs.

1. Major Nigerian Sea Ports and Their Codes

Nigeria’s extensive coastline is home to several key ports that serve as gateways for international trade. The vast majority of cargo, however, is concentrated in the Lagos area.

Port Name	Port Code	Brief Description
Apapa Port	NGAPA	Nigeria’s oldest and busiest port, located in Lagos. It handles a wide range of cargo, including containers, bulk goods, and general cargo.
Tin Can Port	NGLOS	Also part of the Lagos port complex, this is a modern container terminal designed to ease congestion from Apapa Port and is known for its relatively higher efficiency.
Port Harcourt	NGPHC	Located in the southeast, this is a major hub for the oil industry and serves as a key regional trade center.
Onne Port	NGONG	Also known as the Lagos Deep Sea Port or Lekki Port, this is Nigeria’s newest deep-water port. With state-of-the-art facilities, it is poised to become a major shipping hub in West Africa.
Calabar Port	NGCBQ	Situated in the southeast near the Cameroon border, it serves as an important regional port.

Key Takeaway: For most shipments from China, your cargo will be destined for Apapa Port (NGAPA) or Tin Can Port (NGLOS) in Lagos.

2. Major Nigerian Airports and Their Codes

For high-value or time-sensitive goods, air freight is the preferred method. Nigeria has several international airports, with one standing out as the primary cargo hub.

Airport Name	Airport Code	Brief Description
Murtala Muhammed Int’l Airport	LOS	Located in Lagos, this is Nigeria’s busiest and most important international airport for both passengers and cargo.
Nnamdi Azikiwe Int’l Airport	ABV	Located in the capital, Abuja, it serves as a key political and business travel hub.
Port Harcourt Int’l Airport	PHC	Serves the southeastern region and the oil industry hub.
Mallam Aminu Kano Int’l Airport	KAN	Located in the north, it is a vital air link connecting West and North Africa.

Key Takeaway: If you choose air freight, Lagos (LOS) will almost certainly be your destination airport due to its extensive flight network and mature cargo infrastructure.

3. Which Ports Do Most Shipments from China Use?

The answer is overwhelmingly clear: Lagos.

Over 90% of all sea freight from China to Nigeria is discharged at the ports of Lagos. Here’s why:

1. Dense Shipping Routes: Nearly all major shipping lines (like Maersk, MSC, COSCO) offer direct services to Lagos, providing frequent and reliable schedules.
2. Superior Infrastructure: Compared to other Nigerian ports, Lagos has the most developed support services for customs clearance, warehousing, and inland transportation.
3. Economic Hub: Lagos is the commercial heart of Nigeria. Most importers have their headquarters or warehouses in and around Lagos, allowing for faster distribution of goods across the country.

While new ports like Lekki are gaining traction, Apapa and Tin Can will remain the primary gateways for China-Nigeria trade for the foreseeable future.

4. Shipping Methods and Costs from China to Nigeria

Choosing the right shipping method is a balance between cost, speed, and the nature of your goods.

Method 1: Sea Freight (Ocean Freight)

This is the most common and cost-effective method for large, heavy, or bulk items like machinery, furniture, and textiles.

• Full Container Load (FCL)
  • Description: You book an entire container for your exclusive use. Ideal for large shipments that can fill a container.
  • Common Sizes: 20-foot (20’GP), 40-foot (40’GP), and 40-foot High Cube (40’HQ).
  • Cost Estimate: Sea freight rates are highly dynamic. For a 40’HQ container from a major Chinese port (like Shanghai or Shenzhen) to Lagos, the cost can range from $2,000 to$5,000+ USD depending on the season and market conditions. Always get a real-time quote.
• Less than Container Load (LCL)
  • Description: Your goods share container space with shipments from other exporters. Perfect for smaller cargo volumes.
  • Costing: Charged per cubic meter (CBM) or per ton, whichever is greater.
  • Cost Estimate: Rates are more stable but still fluctuate. From China to Lagos, you can expect to pay approximately $50 to$150 USD per CBM.

Factors Affecting Sea Freight Costs:

• Seasonality: The peak season (Q3-Q4) sees higher rates.
• Fuel Surcharges (BAF): Linked to global oil prices.
• Port Congestion: Lagos ports often face congestion, which can lead to additional surcharges.

Method 2: Air Freight

Best for high-value, lightweight, or time-sensitive cargo like electronics, spare parts, and important documents.

• Costing: Charged based on the greater of the actual weight or the volumetric weight (Length x Width x Height / 6000).
• Cost Estimate: Air freight prices vary greatly. From China to Lagos, the cost for general cargo can range from $3 to$8 USD per kilogram. Prices can be higher during peak seasons or for special cargo (e.g., batteries).

Method 3: International Express Courier

Ideal for small parcels, documents, and samples. Services like DHL, FedEx, and UPS offer door-to-door delivery.

• Pros: Extremely convenient, fast, and fully trackable.
• Cons: The most expensive option, not suitable for commercial cargo.
• Cost Estimate: A small 0.5 kg package could cost between $50 to$100 USD.

Final Recommendations

1. Know Your Cargo: The nature, size, and urgency of your goods will determine the best shipping method.
2. Default to Lagos Ports: Unless you have a specific reason, plan for your sea freight to arrive at Apapa or Tin Can Port.
3. Rates are Dynamic: Never rely on old quotes. Always get a real-time quote before booking.
4. Find a Reliable Logistics Partner: This is the most crucial advice. An experienced and trustworthy freight forwarder will provide you with optimal shipping solutions, handle complex customs clearance, and resolve any issues that arise, saving you time, money, and stress.

The trade bridge between China and Nigeria is strong and full of opportunity. By mastering these logistics fundamentals, your business is set to thrive.

Happy shipping!