Shipping goods, cars, or personal items from the USA to Nigeria is exciting—but it can also feel stressful if you’re new to international shipping. Many first-time shippers make mistakes that end up costing them time, money, and peace of mind.
The good news? Most of these mistakes are completely avoidable if you know what to look out for.
In this guide, we’ll share the top mistakes people make when shipping from the USA to Nigeria—and how to avoid them.
Mistake #1: Choosing the Wrong Shipping Method
Not every shipment is the same. Some people automatically go with the cheapest option, but that’s not always the best choice.
- RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off): Great for cars, SUVs, and trucks if you don’t need to send extra items.
- Container Shipping: Better for high-value cars or when combining vehicles with personal effects or cargo.
👉 How to avoid it: Talk to a trusted logistics provider (like Jafbis Logistics) to help you choose the method that matches your needs.
Mistake #2: Not Preparing Documents Properly
Paperwork is one of the biggest reasons shipments get delayed. Missing or incorrect documents can even cause your cargo to be held at customs.
Commonly required documents include:
- Original car title (for vehicles)
- Bill of sale or proof of purchase
- Valid ID (passport or driver’s license)
- Commercial invoice & packing list (for cargo)
👉 How to avoid it: Work with a logistics partner that checks your paperwork before shipping. At Jafbis, we guide you step by step so nothing gets missed.
Mistake #3: Leaving Personal Items Inside the Car (RoRo Shipments)
Many people assume they can load personal items inside a car being shipped by RoRo—but this is not allowed. Cars must be empty except for factory-installed equipment.
👉 How to avoid it: If you want to send personal items, choose container shipping, which allows extra cargo.
Mistake #4: Ignoring Customs Duties and Fees in Nigeria
Some shippers only budget for U.S. shipping costs and forget about Nigerian customs duties. These fees depend on:
- The car’s age, engine size, and value (for vehicles).
- Type and quantity of goods (for cargo).
👉 How to avoid it: Always factor customs clearance into your budget. Jafbis Logistics provides guidance so you’re not surprised at the port.
Mistake #5: Using an Unreliable or Unlicensed Shipping Company
Sadly, not all shipping companies are trustworthy. Some offer “cheap deals” but disappear with your money or deliver poor service.
👉 How to avoid it: Always check if the company is licensed, has a physical office, and real customer reviews. Jafbis Logistics is fully registered in Dallas, Texas, and trusted by families and businesses.
Mistake #6: Not Insuring Your Shipment
Accidents are rare, but shipping across the ocean always carries risk. Many people skip insurance to save money—but end up regretting it if something happens.
👉 How to avoid it: Always ask about marine insurance for valuable shipments. It gives you peace of mind.
Mistake #7: Waiting Until the Last Minute to Ship
International shipping takes planning. On average, it takes 4–6 weeks for goods or cars to arrive in Nigeria. Last-minute shippers often pay higher rates or face unnecessary delays.
👉 How to avoid it: Book your shipment early and plan around your needs.
Final Thoughts
Shipping from the USA to Nigeria doesn’t have to be stressful—as long as you avoid these common mistakes.
- ✅ Choose the right shipping method.
- ✅ Prepare your documents correctly.
- ✅ Budget for customs duties.
- ✅ Work with a reliable logistics partner.
At Jafbis Logistics LLC, we make sure you don’t fall into these traps. From paperwork to delivery, we guide you every step of the way.
🚢 Ready to ship safely and stress-free?
📞 Contact Jafbis Logistics
