Importing goods into Nigeria can be a profitable venture—if done correctly. However, failing to comply with customs regulations can lead to costly penalties, shipment delays, or even permanent seizure of your goods.
At SHAV ONE LIMITED, we believe in doing business the right way. With over a decade of experience clearing goods at Nigerian ports and airports, we’ve seen how small errors can create big problems. This guide will help you understand the most common customs pitfalls—and how to avoid them completely.
🚫 Common Customs Penalties in Nigeria
Before we show you how to avoid them, it’s important to know what’s at stake. Some of the most common customs penalties include:
Heavy fines for under-declaration of cargo value
Seizure or confiscation of goods
Demurrage charges due to delayed clearance
Legal action or blacklisting of importer details
Higher duty re-assessments and revaluation
✅ 1. Always Declare the True Value of Your Goods
Many importers make the mistake of under-declaring the value of their goods to reduce duty. Nigerian Customs is equipped to detect such practices through valuation databases and international pricing benchmarks.
Why it’s risky:
It’s illegal and classified as fraud
It triggers red flags and full inspections
If caught, you pay fines and possibly lose your goods
How to avoid it:
Work with a licensed customs broker like SHAV ONE LIMITED
Provide authentic invoices and shipping documents
Let us help you determine the correct Customs Valuation and HS Code
✅ 2. Get the Right Permits and Approvals Before Shipping
If you’re importing regulated items such as food, drugs, cosmetics, electronics, or industrial equipment, you’ll likely need approvals from:
NAFDAC (National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control)
SON (Standards Organisation of Nigeria)
End-User Certificates (for restricted or sensitive items)
How to avoid penalties:
Confirm permit requirements before placing your order
Let SHAV ONE LIMITED handle permit processing to ensure accuracy
Avoid shipping restricted items without clearance
✅ 3. Open a Proper Form M with Your Bank
The Form M is a mandatory document for all imports into Nigeria. Failing to open a Form M—or using the wrong product description—can result in penalties or your PAAR being rejected.
How to avoid issues:
Open the Form M with the correct HS code and detailed description
Double-check your supplier’s invoice and documents for consistency
Engage SHAV ONE LIMITED to process your Form M professionally
✅ 4. Don’t Rely on Guesswork for Duty Estimates
Many importers make duty payments based on assumptions, only to find themselves under-assessed and penalized later.
Solution:
Get a custom duty quote from SHAV ONE LIMITED before your goods arrive
We assess based on official HS codes and customs benchmarks
You get clarity and avoid any surprise duty revaluation
✅ 5. Avoid Late Clearance and Port Delays
Every day your goods spend un-cleared at the port attracts demurrage fees and may signal negligence to customs.
How to avoid delays:
Submit documents before cargo arrival
Ensure shipping documents are sent to your broker in advance
Let SHAV ONE LIMITED handle end-to-end customs clearance for faster turnaround
✅ 6. Pay Customs Duties Through Approved Channels
Customs duties should always be paid using the Assessment Notice through your designated commercial bank.
Why this matters:
It ensures your payment is traceable and verifiable by customs
Unofficial payments or cash-based “shortcuts” may backfire
Pro Tip:
We generate official duty assessments for you
You can pay directly through your bank, or we can handle payment on your behalf if requested
🛡️ Work With a Licensed, Transparent Customs Agent
At SHAV ONE LIMITED, we don’t cut corners. Our commitment to full compliance and professional ethics protects your cargo—and your reputation.
When you work with us, you’re choosing:
✅ Transparency
✅ Legal compliance
✅ Zero shortcuts
✅ Timely delivery
✅ Accurate documentation
🚀 Ready to Import the Right Way?
Avoid customs penalties by working with professionals who know the rules and play by them. Whether you’re a first-time importer or a large-scale trader, SHAV ONE LIMITED is here to help you ship with peace of mind.
📞 Call/WhatsApp:
(+234) 08033487957, 08085382071
Import smart. Ship legally. Stay compliant.
