Navigating customs clearance in Nigeria—whether through seaports or airports—can be complex and time-consuming without the right expertise. As a leading maritime and logistics solutions provider, Oitha Marine ensures a seamless import and export process that complies with Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) regulations, helping businesses save time, reduce costs, and avoid penalties.
If you are importing machinery, exporting agricultural produce, or managing bulk shipments, understanding the customs clearance procedures in Nigeria is critical to your business success.
What Is Customs Clearance?
Customs clearance is the process of preparing and submitting required documentation to facilitate the entry or exit of goods in a country. It involves payment of duties, compliance with import/export laws, and inspection of goods by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and relevant agencies.
Customs Clearance at Nigerian Seaports
Nigeria’s major seaports—Apapa, Tin Can Island, Onne, and Port Harcourt—handle over 80% of the country’s international trade. Oitha Marine’s dedicated customs agents are strategically positioned at these ports to handle documentation, tariff classification, and container release efficiently.
Key Steps in Seaport Customs Clearance:
1. Import Duty Assessment: Calculation of duties using the NCS tariff code.
2. Documentation Submission: Includes Bill of Lading, Form M, Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR), and SONCAP (for regulated goods).
3. Physical Examination and Scanning: Conducted by NCS and other agencies.
4. Duty Payment and Release: Final clearance and delivery to warehouse or client destination.
Customs Clearance at Nigerian Airports
Airfreight is ideal for urgent or high-value goods, and Oitha Marine provides end-to-end clearance services at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (Lagos) and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (Abuja).
Key Steps in Airport Customs Clearance:
1. Processing Airway Bill (AWB) and Import Documents
2. Submission to NAHCO/SAHCOL Terminals
3. Customs Duty and VAT Payment
4. Inspection and Cargo Release
Oitha Marine’s Competitive Advantage
Licensed Customs Brokers: Fully registered with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and other regulatory agencies.
Technology-Driven Operations: Real-time cargo tracking, e-documentation, and automated reporting.
Multi-Modal Capability: Handling clearance for sea, air, and inland transport.
Compliance and Transparency: Ensuring all duties and tariffs are properly accounted for.
Common Challenges in Customs Clearance (and How Oitha Marine Solves Them)
Challenges Oitha Marine’s Solutions
Delayed release of cargo Real-time follow-up and relationship with customs officials
Documentation errors Pre-shipment document verification
Overpayment of duties Expert tariff classification and HS code interpretation
Regulatory bottlenecks Liaison with SON, NAFDAC, NESREA, and NPA for smooth clearance
Tips for Smooth Customs Clearance in Nigeria
1. Ensure Form M is correctly filled before shipment.
2. Work with a licensed customs agent to avoid penalties.
3. Keep digital copies of all shipping documents.
4. Understand the import duty classification for your product category.
5. Plan for port demurrage and clearance timelines.
Why Businesses Choose Oitha Marine
Proven track record in customs brokerage and port logistics
24/7 customer support and cargo tracking
Cost-efficient clearance process that saves clients time and money
Strong partnerships with shipping lines, terminal operators, and airport authorities
FAQs on Customs Clearance in Nigeria
1. How long does customs clearance take in Nigeria?
Depending on documentation accuracy and cargo type, clearance can take 2–7 working days for air cargo and 5–14 days for seaport cargo.
2. What documents are required for import clearance?
You’ll need a Form M, Bill of Lading or Airway Bill, Packing List, Commercial Invoice, PAAR, and SONCAP Certificate (for regulated goods).
3. Can Oitha Marine handle export clearance too?
Yes. Oitha Marine provides full export clearance, including documentation, inspection, and shipment coordination.
4. What are the main ports and airports Oitha Marine operates in?
Major seaports: Apapa, Tin Can, Onne, and Port Harcourt.
Airports: Lagos (NAHCO/SAHCOL) and Abuja International Airport.
5. How can I get a quotation for my import or export shipment?
You can contact Oitha Marine via OithaMarine.com or email info@oithamarine.com for a tailored customs clearance quote.
Conclusion
Efficient customs clearance is key to keeping your global supply chain running smoothly. With Oitha Marine’s expert customs brokerage, regulatory compliance, and nationwide coverage, importers and exporters in Nigeria can focus on business growth while leaving the clearance process in capable hands.
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