Best Method to handle Less Container Load (Groupage) shipping to Nigeria

Best Method to handle Less Container Load (Groupage) shipping to Nigeria.

Shipping of goods that small in quantity and volume requires that the importers opt for Less Container Load option. It is a way of reducing shipping cost e because you will pay less compare to air freight cost and using the Full Container Load options. This is very important while shipping to Nigeria in order to maximize profit by the importer

Groupage Shipping from USA, Germany, China, UK, India and some other countries can be easy because most of the loading in the containers are done at the Ports’ Terminals. More than two shippers can accommodate a container depending on the tons and volume (CBM) of the shipment of the shipper.

The best methods to use while using Less Container Load or groupage shipping to Nigeria

1. Avoid opening of Form M – You may ask me what is Form M; this is a document issue by Nigerian banks under the Central Bank of Nigeria policy that inform the customs and the Central bank that an importer intend to ship some items  shipping to Nigeria. The information about the goods, the goods value, the FOB (Freight on Board) charges, including the insurance value, importer’s bank details alongside with the Harmonized System Code (HS code) of the items for customs valuation for customs duty, levy and excise.
2. Request for Bill of Lading Draft – having a view of the information on bill of lading draft will help in correction of information on the Original Bill of Lading. This will assist to avoid discrepancies that may arise contrary to information on the Form M, SONCAP Certificate, NAFDAC documents and some other documents for clearing purpose.
3. Prepare Pre-Arrival Assessment Report or Customs goods Valuation – The beauty of not issuing form M is that at times delay in PAAR readiness by banks through Nigeria customs valuation unit in Abuja, may cause you to pay heavily for storage charges by the terminal operators. Customs goods valuation will be handled by the customs agents or the freight forwarders you authorize to handle the goods. After the valuation, the duty value will be prepared for the importer to pay; this will reduce the risks of demurrage payment to the terminal operators.
4. Terminal and customs Examination: After duty payment has been made, the shipping company and terminal fee need to be requested for and paid for accordingly. All other agencies involve like SON, NAFDAC fees will be paid for, for examination and goods release.

Handling of groupage shipment can be easy if all documents information are correct and be complicated if discrepancies occur in the process.

Do you have any questions regarding the shipping of goods using LCL method of shipping to Nigeria? Let’s talk on the handling process; you will be glad you choose our service for both shipping and customs clearance