If you’re importing goods into Nigeria, you’ll need to understand the container customs clearance process. Whether it’s a 20ft or 40ft container, clearing through Nigeria Customs Service involves duties, fees, and documentation that can quickly become complicated.
At Cargonaija, we specialise in container customs clearance in Nigeria — ensuring fast, transparent, and affordable clearance at Lagos ports (Apapa & Tin Can), as well as Port Harcourt and Onne.
What Is Container Customs Clearance?
Container customs clearance is the process of declaring your imported goods with the Nigeria Customs Service, paying duties, and securing release for delivery. This can apply to:
📦 20ft containers (smaller loads)
🚢 40ft containers (large shipments)
Full Container Load (FCL) or Groupage/Shared containers
Key Documents Required for Container Clearance
To clear your container in Nigeria, you’ll need:
Bill of Lading (BL) – Issued by shipping line.
Form M – Import declaration form.
PAAR Report – Pre-Arrival Assessment Report approved by Customs.
DTI Print – Customs declaration form.
Clearance Letter – Agent authorisation.
Our team assists with every step, ensuring compliance with Nigeria Customs.
20ft vs 40ft Container Customs Clearance Costs in Nigeria (2025)
Importers often ask: “How much does it cost to clear a 20ft or 40ft container in Nigeria?”
Here’s an overview of indicative container clearing costs:
20ft Container – Estimated Costs
Deposit Fee: ₦100,000
Terminal Fee: ₦90,000
Shipping Company Fee: ₦250,000
Punching: ₦65,000
Customs Documentation: ₦56,000
Agency Fee: ₦85,000
Possible Storage/Demurrage: from ₦48,000
40ft Container – Estimated Costs
Deposit Fee: ₦200,000
Terminal Fee: ₦190,000
Shipping Company Fee: ₦450,000
Punching: ₦130,000
Customs Documentation: ₦110,000
Agency Fee: ₦150,000
Possible Storage/Demurrage: from ₦100,000
⚠️ Important Note: The prices above are for indicative purposes only. Customs duties and port charges in Nigeria are subject to change at intervals. Please call us or email us for the current going rate for your container clearance.
Our full customs clearance services in Nigeria cover both 20ft and 40ft container clearance with licensed agents
Why Choose Cargonaija for Container Clearing in Nigeria?
✅ 5-day container clearance guarantee at Lagos ports
✅ Licensed customs clearing agents in Nigeria
✅ Transparent duty calculation — no hidden fees
✅ Prevent demurrage or storage delays
✅ Expertise in 20ft and 40ft container customs clearance
FAQs on Container Customs Clearance
Q: How long does it take to clear a container in Nigeria?
A: With Cargonaija, container clearance takes 5 working days if documentation is complete.
Q: Which ports do you cover for container clearance?
A: Lagos (Apapa & Tin Can), Port Harcourt, and Onne.
Q: Do you provide both 20ft and 40ft container clearance?
A: Yes, we specialise in both, as well as groupage shipments.
Q: Why is using a licensed customs clearing agent important?
A: It prevents delays, overcharges, and ensures compliance with Nigeria Customs Service regulations.
⚠️ Important Payment Disclaimer
To avoid being scammed, never make payment to any staff’s personal account. If you do so, you could be scammed, and Cargonaija will not take responsibility for it.
👉 All payments for customs clearance or any other service with Cargonaija must only be made into the company’s official business account below:
Bank: UBA
Account Name: NGCARGONAIJA LIMITED
❌ Never pay into any other account apart from the above.
Contact Us Today
📍 Office: No. 31 Olaiya Street, Mafoluku, Lagos, Nigeria
📞 Nigeria: 07049450575 | 09046181274
📞 UK: 02039045521
📧 Email: info@cargonaija.com
Cargonaija – Your Trusted Partner for Container Customs Clearance in Nigeria.
