Shipping goods from South Africa to Nigeria can seem like a challenge, especially with customs procedures, shipping costs, and delivery timelines to consider. But with the right information and a trusted shipping company like Cargonaija, you can ship your cargo smoothly, affordably, and efficiently.
In this 2025 guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to successfully ship from South Africa to Nigeria — whether it’s personal effects, business inventory, or commercial cargo.
Why Ship from South Africa to Nigeria?
South Africa is a major export hub in Africa, with Johannesburg being a key centre for trade and cargo movement. Many Nigerians living in or doing business with South Africa frequently need to ship:
Household goods
Business inventory
Construction materials
Electronics
Auto parts
Clothing and fabrics
Choosing a reliable freight forwarder ensures your goods arrive safely and on time.
Air Freight vs. Sea Freight: Which Is Right for You?
Air Freight:
Best for urgent or lightweight packages
Delivery in 3–7 business days
Ideal for electronics, documents, and small personal items
Sea Freight:
Most cost-effective for bulky or large shipments
Estimated delivery: 4–6 weeks
Great for commercial cargo, furniture, or large volume household goods
At Cargonaija, we offer both air and sea freight options from Johannesburg to Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and other Nigerian cities.
Step-by-Step: How to Ship to Nigeria from South Africa
Get a Free Quote
Contact us via WhatsApp at +27688849494 or email info@cargonaija.com with details of your shipment.Drop Off or Arrange Pickup
Bring your items to our South Africa office:
Shop 20 York House, 45 Kerk Street, Johannesburg 2001.
Or request a pickup if you’re within the Johannesburg metro area.Packaging & Labelling
We help ensure your goods are properly packed, labelled, and prepared for customs clearance.Choose Shipping Method
Select between air freight (fast) or sea freight (budget-friendly) depending on urgency and weight.Tracking & Delivery
We provide regular updates until your goods arrive in Nigeria. You can choose delivery to the door or local pickup at our Nigerian office.
Cost Breakdown: What Does It Cost to Ship?
While costs vary based on weight, volume, and urgency, here’s a sample estimate:
| Item | Shipping Mode | Estimated Cost | Delivery Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10kg Personal Box | Air Freight | R1,200 – R1,800 | 5–10 Business Days |
| 1 Flat Screen TV | Air Freight | R2,800 – R3,500 | 10 Business Days |
| 1m³ Commercial Cargo | Sea Freight | R4,500 – R6,000 | 6–8 Weeks |
Contact us for precise rates — we offer competitive pricing with no hidden fees.
Prohibited & Restricted Items
Certain items are restricted from shipping into Nigeria. Here are a few you cannot ship:
Firearms, ammunition, explosives
Liquid chemicals, flammable goods
Pornographic material
Fake currency or counterfeit products
Food items (without inspection approval)
Our team will guide you on what’s allowed and help you comply with South African and Nigerian customs laws.
Packing Tips to Protect Your Cargo
To reduce the chance of damage or loss, follow these expert packing tips:
Use double-walled boxes for strength
Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap or foam
Use stretch film to bind goods securely
Avoid shipping loosely packed electronics
Label every package clearly with your name, address, and phone number
Need help packing? Cargonaija offers professional packaging services on request.
Understanding Nigerian Customs & Clearance
When your shipment arrives in Nigeria, it goes through customs. Here’s what to expect:
Inspection: Customs officials verify declared contents
Duties & Taxes: Depending on the item, you may be charged import duty (5–35%)
Required Documents: Invoice, ID copy, packing list, proof of ownership
Timeline: 2–5 days for clearance (faster with Cargonaija assistance)
We help speed up clearance by pre-filing documents and working with registered Nigerian customs agents.
Real Customer Success Stories
“I shipped a full bedroom set from Joburg to Lagos. It arrived in perfect condition in just over a month. Cargonaija updated me every step of the way.” – Chinyere A.
“Cargonaija picked up my boxes from my apartment and cleared them fast in Nigeria. It was totally stress-free.” – Taiwo G.
Your success story could be next.
Shipping Schedule & Frequency
We ship regularly from Johannesburg to Nigeria:
Air Freight: Every Friday
Sea Freight: Fortnightly (1x per month)
Booking Deadline: Air – 24 hrs before; Sea – 3 days before
Contact us early to guarantee your slot!
What Makes Cargonaija Different?
✅ Transparent pricing – No hidden charges
✅ Fast customs clearance in both countries
✅ Excellent support via WhatsApp, phone, and email
✅ Trusted by Nigerians across SA and the diaspora
✅ Experience shipping fragile and high-value items
With over 10 years in the logistics business, we’re your trusted bridge between South Africa and Nigeria.
Common Questions
Q: How long does sea shipping take from South Africa to Nigeria?
A: It typically takes 6–8 weeks door-to-door.
Q: Can I ship a car or auto parts?
A: Yes! We have experience shipping vehicles and large equipment.
Q: Is my cargo insured?
A: Insurance is optional but recommended. Ask us how to add it.
Q: Do you help with clearing in Nigeria?
A: Absolutely. We handle clearance to make the process hassle-free.
Q: Do I have to bring items to your office?
A: No. We offer local pickup in Johannesburg for your convenience.
Ready to Ship?
Contact our team today:
South Africa Office: +27688849494
Nigeria Team: +2349027816253
Email: info@cargonaija.com
Website: www.cargonaija.com
Want a direct quote or to get started now? Visit our Shipping from South Africa to Nigeria service page and book your spot today.
Let’s get your cargo to Nigeria, fast and stress-free. Whether you’re sending personal items or commercial goods — Cargonaija delivers.
