Most delayed shipments aren't caused by carriers — they're caused by paperwork. Here's a straightforward checklist we walk first-time exporters through.
The document pack
Every export consignment needs, at minimum:
- Commercial invoice — buyer, seller, quantity, unit price, total value, currency, incoterm.
- Packing list — item-by-item, weight per unit, total weight.
- Certificate of origin — issued by the Nigerian Chamber of Commerce or equivalent.
- Bill of lading — issued by the carrier once cargo is on board.
- Phytosanitary certificate — for agricultural produce, issued by NAQS.
- Form NXP — required for currency repatriation on Nigerian exports.
Timing that matters
- Certificate of origin — 24–72 hours to issue. Start early.
- Phytosanitary certificate — inspection usually happens at the packing facility. Book at least 5 working days ahead.
- Form NXP — process it before loading, not after.
- Bill of lading — telex release is faster than original documents but costs slightly more.
The three most common mistakes
- Mismatched weights on invoice vs packing list vs bill of lading. Even small discrepancies trigger customs holds.
- Late certificate of origin. Buyers can't clear cargo at destination without it.
- Wrong HS code. Getting this wrong at origin creates duty issues on arrival.
What good coordination looks like
We assign one contact per shipment who owns the entire document pack from booking through to arrival — so you always know exactly which document is where in the process.
Request logistics support if you'd like us to handle your next outbound shipment.
