Article Summary: #
Choosing between air and sea freight can be confusing. In this article, we explain the major differences, benefits, and trade-offs between both so you can choose the best shipping method for your needs.
Air Shipping #
Air freight is the fastest way to ship goods from China to Nigeria, ideal for urgent, lightweight, or high-value items.
Best for: #
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Small or urgent orders
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Electronics, fashion items, and accessories
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Fragile or high-value goods
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Amazon FBA shipments
How It Works: #
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We weigh your goods in kilograms (kg)
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Shipping rates are charged per kg
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Goods are processed and sent via Guangzhou or Hong Kong Airport
Air Shipping Duration: #
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Normal Goods (no battery, liquids): 5–10 working days for Nigeria. USA, UK, Canada, Italy, Australia, etc 9-12 days
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Sensitive Goods (with battery, liquid, etc.): 14–20 working days. USA, UK, Canada, Italy, Australia, etc 9-12 days
- Express Goods ( phones, tablets, computers, liquids, powder) 3-4 working days
Sensitive goods are shipped via Hong Kong due to airline restrictions.
Sea Shipping #
Sea freight is cost-effective for large or heavy shipments, especially when time is flexible. Instead of weight, shipping is calculated by CBM (Cubic Meter).
Best for: #
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Bulky or heavy items
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Inventory restocking
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Furniture, tools, equipment
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Non-urgent shipments
How It Works: #
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We offer free consolidation and repacking
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Goods are grouped, packed into containers, and shipped
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CBM is calculated after consolidation (not weight)
Sea Shipping Duration: #
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Standard delivery time: 45–90 days
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Destination: Major African ports, especially Nigeria
Weight does not matter with sea freight — volume is everything.
Air vs Sea Comparison Table #
| Feature | Air Shipping | Sea Shipping |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | 5–20 working days | 45–90 days |
| Cost Basis | Charged per KG | Charged per CBM |
| Best for | Light, urgent, high-value | Heavy, bulky, low-urgency items |
| Delivery Type | Door-to-door or pickup | Door-to-door or warehouse pickup |
| Sensitive Goods | Requires special route | Usually accepted with CBM rate |
| Tracking | Real-time updates available | Real-time updates after dispatch |
How to Choose the Best Option #
| If your priority is… | Choose… |
|---|---|
| Speed & urgency | Air Shipping |
| Lower cost for large volume | Sea Shipping |
| Small but fragile items | Air (with special packing) |
| Planning inventory in advance | Sea Shipping |
| Shipping to Amazon FBA | Air (fast & traceable) |
Still Not Sure? #
We’re here to help you decide!
Reach out to our support team via chat or email — we’ll recommend the best option for your cargo type, timeline, and budget.
