Clearing goods at Nigerian seaports and airports can be complex and overwhelming, especially for first-time importers. Delays, penalties, and even seizure of goods often happen—not because of bad intentions, but because of poor planning and lack of knowledge.

At SHAV ONE LIMITED, we’ve helped businesses and individuals clear thousands of shipments at ports across Nigeria. This guide outlines the step-by-step process to help you understand what’s involved, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure your cargo is cleared efficiently and legally.

✅ Step 1: Pre-Import Planning & Proper Documentation

Before your goods even leave their origin country, ensure all required documents are in place. Missing or incorrect paperwork is the number one cause of delay at Nigerian ports.
Key Documents Needed:

Bill of Lading (Sea) or Airway Bill (Air)

Commercial Invoice

Packing List

Form M (Opened with your Nigerian bank)

SONCAP certificate (for regulated products)

NAFDAC Permit (for food, drugs, cosmetics, etc.)

End-User Certificate (for items like armored vehicles)

Certificate of Origin

Pro Forma Invoice

👉 Pro Tip: SHAV ONE LIMITED can help you process critical documents like NAFDAC, SONCAP, and End-User permits to save you time and avoid mistakes.

✅ Step 2: Apply for a Form M

Form M is a mandatory import declaration form issued by your bank and approved by the Nigeria Customs Service.
Why it’s important:

It’s required for opening a trade transaction.

It allows customs to track and assess the cargo for duty.

👉 We assist clients in preparing and submitting Form M through their bank to ensure full compliance with Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and Customs requirements.

✅ Step 3: Generate a Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR)

Once the Form M is approved and the goods are on the way, your bank will issue a PAAR based on the shipping documents.
PAAR Includes:

Customs valuation of your goods

Duty and tax estimates

Required supporting documents

👉 This report is submitted electronically to Nigeria Customs for processing.

✅ Step 4: Customs Duty Payment

After the PAAR is approved, customs will issue an Assessment Notice detailing how much duty and tax is to be paid.
Two options for payment:

You (the importer) pay directly through your bank.

SHAV ONE LIMITED pays on your behalf, if authorized.

👉 We recommend clients handle their own payments for transparency, but we’re happy to assist when needed.

✅ Step 5: Terminal & Shipping Charges

In addition to customs duty, importers are responsible for:

Terminal handling charges

Shipping line charges

Storage fees (if applicable)

👉 We’ll provide the necessary debit notes, and you can either:

Pay directly and forward receipts to us

Allow us to handle payment for faster processing

 

✅ Step 6: Cargo Inspection and Clearance

Once payments are confirmed, customs will proceed with:

Document verification

Cargo physical inspection

Final clearance approval

👉 SHAV ONE LIMITED coordinates directly with port officials to expedite this process and resolve any inspection delays.

✅ Step 7: Delivery or Pickup

After clearance, you have two options:

Use your own transport company to pick up the goods from the port

 

Let SHAV ONE LIMITED arrange safe and timely transportation to your warehouse, office, or home

We deliver to anywhere in Nigeria, and our transport partners offer competitive rates.
💡 Bonus Tips for Smooth Clearance

Avoid under-declaring your goods—it may lead to seizure or fines.

Start your Form M and documentation process before the goods are shipped.

Work with licensed professionals like SHAV ONE LIMITED for customs brokerage.

Always budget for all legitimate charges: customs duty, shipping line fees, terminal fees, etc.

 

Keep track of your shipment status and be responsive to any queries from customs or regulatory agencies.

 

🛡️ Why Choose SHAV ONE LIMITED?

✅ Licensed by Nigeria Customs Service
✅ Members of ANLCA and CRFFN
✅ Decades of experience in customs clearing
✅ Experts in documentation (NAFDAC, SON, End-User)
✅ Transparent pricing—no hidden fees
✅ Fast, ethical, and stress-free cargo clearance
📦 Ready to Clear Your Cargo?

 

Let us help you avoid delays, penalties, and stress. Whether you’re a new or experienced importer, SHAV ONE LIMITED will handle your cargo with precision and care—from documentation to final delivery.

📞 Call/WhatsApp: (+234) 08033487957, 08085382071

 

Your cargo deserves a trusted partner. Let SHAV ONE LIMITED handle it—legally, quickly, and professionally.