Article Summary: #

In this article, we are going to explain what it means to import from China to Nigeria. This includes buying from China and finding a reputable freight forwarding company to ship your goods from China to Nigeria.

There is a naming convention when it comes to sourcing and shipping from China. It all depends on the angle you are starting.

1. China Importation
2. Mini Importation.

 

China Importation #

This refers mostly to businesses that buy directly from the Chinese local markets or suppliers in large quantities up to a full container. They don’t buy from the Chinese online platforms. They also don’t buy in pieces, they buy in bundles and cartons.

 

Mini Importation #

This model of buying and shipping from China to Nigeria allows small businesses or a neutral person to buy from China. This is usually through Chinese online stores as we will discuss below. It is more like a personal shopping model where you add products you need on a cart and checkout once your need is full.

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1. Choose Your Shipping Method #

You can ship goods from China to Nigeria using:

 Air Shipping

Air freight is ideal for small-to-medium-sized, time-sensitive goods. However, air shipping is classified into normal goods and sensitive goods, each with a different route and delivery timeline.

Normal Goods

• Includes: Clothes, shoes, fabrics, bags, and other general merchandise

• No liquids, powders, batteries, or magnetic/electronic components

• Shipping Route: Guangzhou Airport

• Delivery Time: 5–10 business days

 Sensitive Goods

• Includes: Items with batteries, liquids, power banks, cosmetics, electronics, powders, or anything magnetic

• Requires special handling and documentation

• Shipping Route: Hong Kong Airport

• Delivery Time: 14–20 business days

💡 All types of items can be shipped — just inform us of the category when making your booking to ensure proper handling and routing.

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Sea Shipping #

Sea freight is ideal for heavy or bulky shipments. It’s the most cost-effective option but takes longer to arrive.

• Best for: Large-volume orders or non-urgent goods

• Shipping Ports (China): Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Ningbo

• Delivery Time: 45–90 days

• Arrival Port: Lagos, Nigeria (other African destinations available upon request)

• Lower cost per kg or CBM compared to air freight

⏳ Sea shipping timelines depend on consolidation, customs clearance, and shipping schedules. If you have a deadline, consider air freight instead.

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2. Source & Procure Your Products #

Popular sourcing platforms include:

• Alibaba
• 1688
• Taobao
• Made-in-China
• OEM/ODM Manufacturers

Before purchasing:

• Verify your supplier’s credibility
• Ensure product quality via inspection
• Request necessary documents (invoice, packing list, etc.)

 

 Need Help Sourcing?

Most people can’t directly use platforms like 1688 or Taobao due to language, payment, and platform restrictions. This is why many importers rely on a procurement agent.

Here’s how it works:

• You send product links and quantity details
• The agent purchases goods on your behalf using a fully funded Alipay account in RMB
• They handle all communication with sellers
• They monitor the delivery progress until goods are delivered to the freight forwarder’s warehouse

This is the best option for people who:

• Don’t have a China payment solution (Alipay, WeChat)
• Need help with verification or supplier trust
• Want peace of mind from purchase to delivery

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3. Work With a Freight Forwarder (Like FastForth) #

Once your goods arrive, our freight forwarding service takes over.

Here’s how we make it easier:

• We operate a smart goods management system for all packages sent by customers
• You get a tracking dashboard that updates from seller pickup to warehouse delivery
• Once your package arrives, we:
  • Weigh and measure it
  • Update your dashboard with dimensions and cost estimate
  • Provide the option to apply for consolidation or repacking

After repacking is completed:

• You receive a detailed breakdown of cost per package
• You can track your consolidated shipment
• Payment is done online once your shipment arrives in Nigeria

🧠 Everything is digital — from tracking to payment. You manage your entire shipping experience from one dashboard.

We also offer:

• Quality assurance checks
• Short-term warehouse storage (free for up to 7 days)
• Long-term warehousing is available for OEM/ODM manufacturing products only

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4. Confirm Shipment Details #

Once your goods are ready to ship:

• Confirm the final weight and volume
• Approve shipping option (air or sea)
• Verify the final breakdown of your invoice

Your tracking page will also include:

• Shipment status
• Any packaging or service updates
• Expected delivery timeline

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5. Make Payment for Your Shipment #

You can pay in:

• Naira (₦) via bank transfer
• RMB/USD depending on your preference
• Or securely online

Invoice includes:

• Freight cost (air/sea)
• Handling and packaging (if applied)
• Customs and delivery (if door-to-door)

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6. Track Your Shipment #

Once shipped:

• Air shipments come with a tracking number
• Sea shipments include a Bill of Lading (BOL) or packing list for groupage.
• Your dashboard updates in real-time, from warehouse departure to final delivery in Nigeria

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7. Receive Your Shipment in Nigeria #

Choose:

• Door delivery (Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, etc. through waybill)
• Or pick it up from our partner logistics hubs.

Upon delivery:

• Inspect the goods
• Confirm receipt
• Clear any final customs if not prepaid

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Why Choose FastForth? #

• Digital tracking system from seller to delivery
• Professional procurement support is available
• Weekly air & sea shipping schedules
• Transparent cost breakdowns
• In-house warehousing & QA checks
• Amazon FBA supported
• Seamless online payment system

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Still, Have Questions? #

Check our [Help Center] or [Chat with an agent] for assistance.
Or [Request a quote now] to get started.