How to Import Goods from China to Nigeria

Doing business is no longer limited to just your city or country. We owe that to the internet and easy international shipping, people can now buy and sell products across the globe. One of the smartest ways to grow a small or big business in Nigeria is by learning how to import goods from China to Nigeria.

China is known for producing a wide range of products at low prices, which makes it a perfect place to find items you can resell for profit.

If you are just starting your business or looking to add new products to your store, importing from China gives you access to thousands of quality products, from electronics and clothing to home accessories and gadgets.

This simple guide will explain the entire process step by step. You’ll learn how mini importation from China to Nigeria works, how to handle shipping, how to buy without using an agent, and how to choose the cheapest shipping company from China to Nigeria.

1How to Import Goods from China to Nigeria

2Mini Importation from China to Nigeria

3How to Import from China without an Agent

4How Much Does it Cost to Import from China to Nigeria?

5Cheapest Shipping Company from China to Nigeria

6Factors that can Delay of the Importation of Goods from China to Nigeria

7Frequently Asked Questions

8Conclusion

9References

10Recommendations

How to Import Goods from China to Nigeria

Here’s an easy guide on how to import from China to Nigeria.

Find out what people in Nigeria want to buy

Look for products that sell well, like phones, clothes, shoes, or home items. You can check popular online shops like Jumia and Konga, search on Google Trends, or scroll through social media to see what’s trending.

Pick a reliable seller

Use websites like:

Alibaba: best for buying in large amounts
AliExpress: good for buying in small amounts
Made-in-China: good for checking and comparing sellers

Talk about the price and delivery

Before you buy, ask the seller about:

The price for each item
The smallest number of items you can order
How long will the delivery take
How to pay
If there’s a return policy for any item when there’s a problem

Pay the safe way

Always pay through safe websites like Alibaba that protect your money until you get your goods. Don’t send money through unknown or personal accounts.

Choose how to get your goods delivered

Pick a delivery method that works for your budget and how fast you need the items. You can choose:

Express delivery: fast but more expensive
Air shipping: a balance of cost and speed
Sea shipping: cheaper but slower, good for big orders

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Mini Importation from China to Nigeria

Mini importation from China to Nigeria means buying cheap products in small amounts. It’s a good way for beginners to start a business. You don’t need a big office or warehouse, and you can begin with as little as ₦20,000.

Here’s how it works:

Look for affordable and popular items on websites like AliExpress or 1688.com
If you’re using 1688 (which is in Chinese), get help from a buying agent
Pay for the goods and the delivery fee within China
Your agent helps to ship the goods to Nigeria
Once the items arrive, you can sell them on WhatsApp, Instagram, Jumia, or Konga

How to Import from China without an Agent

Want to save money by not using an agent? Remember, you’ll be the one to handle things like talking to the seller, checking the shipment, and clearing the goods at customs.

Here’s how to import from China without an agent, using simple steps:

Shop on websites like AliExpress or Alibaba because they’re in English and easy to use.
If you’re using 1688.com, open it with Google Chrome so it can translate the page for you.
Set up a domiciliary account at your bank, or use PayPal or Alipay to pay safely online.
Choose a shipping company like DHL or a freight forwarder to send the goods to Nigeria.

How Much Does it Cost to Import from China to Nigeria?

Importing isn’t just about product cost. Other things to consider at this stage include:

Product Price
International Shipping
Customs Duty
Local Delivery

However, as of May 2025, below is the updated rate to import goods from China to Nigeria.

Shipping Mode	Price Range	Best For	Transit Time
LCL (Less than Container Load)	$30–$60 per cubic meter	Small shipments not filling a full container	30–40 days
FCL (20ft Container)	$4,200	Large shipments requiring a full container	50–55 days
FCL (40ft Container)	$4,900	Very large shipments	50–55 days
Air Freight	$6 per kg	Time-sensitive, high-value goods	6–8 days
Express Shipping	$5–$10 per kg	Urgent, small packages	3–5 days

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Cheapest Shipping Company from China to Nigeria

Looking for the cheapest shipping company from China to Nigeria? Consider these:

Company	Delivery Time	Type
Skylord Courier	5–12 days	Air cargo
CIF Freight	10–20 days	Sea cargo
DHL/EMS/FedEx	3–7 days	Express
Valuehandlers	10–15 days	Consolidated cargo

Factors that can Delay of the Importation of Goods from China to Nigeria

Many things can slow down your shipment from China to Nigeria. Knowing what causes delays helps you plan better and get your goods on time.

Here are the main reasons shipments get delayed:

Bad Weather: Storms or heavy rain can stop ships and planes from moving.
Busy Ports: When ports are overcrowded, it takes longer to load and unload goods.
Customs Checks: If your paperwork is wrong or incomplete, customs can hold your goods.
Poor Logistics: If your shipping company is slow or unorganized, your items may take longer to arrive.

How to avoid these delays:

Pick the Right Shipping Method: Choose sea or air freight depending on how fast you need the goods and what you’re shipping.
Use a Trusted Shipping Company: Work with a reliable freight forwarder who knows how to avoid delays.
Prepare Your Paperwork Properly: Make sure all your documents are correct and complete before shipping, so customs clearance goes smoothly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I import without a business name?

Yes, for small orders. But a registered business adds credibility and helps with customs clearance.

Do I pay tax on imports?

Yes. Most goods attract VAT (7.5%) and import duty (5–20%).

How can I reduce shipping costs when importing from China to Nigeria?

You can save money on shipping by picking the cheapest delivery method that suits your needs, asking suppliers and shipping companies for better prices, combining several shipments to cut costs, and looking at the total cost before making a decision.

How can I track my shipment from China to Nigeria?

You can follow your shipments using tracking tools from their freight company, shipping company, or courier service. These tools show updates in real time, helping businesses see where their goods are and prepare for any possible delays.

Conclusion

Importing goods from China to Nigeria is no longer a hidden business secret meant for only a few people. It’s now an open opportunity for anyone ready to take the first step. With the right information, some patience, and the courage to begin, you can start a successful business right from your home, even with just your phone.

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