One of the biggest fears importers have is hidden charges during container clearance in Nigeria. Many clearing agents quote a low price upfront, only to add unexpected fees later.
At Cargonaija, we believe in transparent container customs clearance in Nigeria. Whether you’re clearing a 20ft or 40ft container, we provide a clear breakdown of all expected charges so you know exactly what to budget.
Common Hidden Charges Importers Face
When using unlicensed or unreliable agents, you may encounter:
❌ Inflated agency fees
❌ Unnecessary “documentation charges”
❌ Overstated customs duty beyond the official tariff
❌ Surprise demurrage or storage costs due to delays
❌ Demands for “urgent release fees”
👉 With licensed customs clearing agents in Nigeria, these hidden costs are avoided.
Transparent Container Clearing Costs (2025 Estimates)
Here’s what you should expect when clearing containers:
20ft Container (Indicative)
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 (Indicative)
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
Choose Cargonaija for transparent customs clearance services in Nigeria with no hidden fees
⚠️ Important Note: These container clearance prices are for indicative purposes only. Costs such as customs duty, shipping line charges, and port fees are subject to change. Please call us or email us for the current going rate before budgeting.
How to Avoid Hidden Charges in Container Clearance
✅ Always request a written breakdown of fees before starting clearance.
✅ Use only licensed customs clearing agents in Lagos or other ports.
✅ Confirm official customs duty rates on the Nigeria Customs Service portal.
✅ Ensure your documentation (Form M, PAAR, BL) is ready to avoid demurrage.
✅ Pay only into the company’s official business account (see disclaimer below).
FAQs – Container Customs Duty in Nigeria
Q: Can customs duty vary from one agent to another?
A: No. Duty rates are fixed by Nigeria Customs Service. Only agency and terminal fees may differ.
Q: Why do people get overcharged for container clearance?
A: Often due to using unlicensed or fraudulent agents who inflate fees.
Q: How do I confirm I’m paying the right duty?
A: Check the official NCS tariff or ask Cargonaija for a verified duty assessment.
⚠️ 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 Without Hidden Charges.
