Container Shipping to Nigeria: Costs, Options, and What You Need to Know

Shipping goods from the USA to Nigeria has never been more important. Families send personal items home, businesses ship cargo for trade, and car buyers often prefer containers for added protection. But one of the most common questions we hear at Jafbis Logistics LLC is:

👉 “How much does container shipping cost, and which option is best for me?”

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about container shipping from the USA to Nigeria—including the costs, types of containers, and how to choose the right option for your shipment.

What Is Container Shipping?

Container shipping simply means packing your cargo (cars, goods, or personal items) inside a large steel container that is loaded onto a cargo ship.

It’s one of the most popular and secure ways to ship internationally because:

  • 🚢 Containers protect goods from weather, theft, and damage.
  • 📦 They allow you to ship large volumes at once.
  • âś… You can combine different items (cars, household goods, electronics, etc.) in one shipment.

If you’re sending valuable items or mixed cargo, container shipping is usually the best choice.

Types of Container Shipping Options

At Jafbis Logistics, we offer two main types of container shipping:

1. Full Container Load (FCL)

  • You rent the entire container for your shipment.
  • Common sizes: 20ft (fits 1–2 cars or large cargo) and 40ft (fits 3–4 cars or bulk goods).
  • âś… Best for: Businesses, car dealers, or families moving large volumes.
  • âś… Pros: Maximum security, more space, ship cars + goods together.
  • ❌ Cons: More expensive than shared containers.

2. Less than Container Load (LCL)

  • Your cargo shares space with shipments from other customers.
  • You only pay for the space you use.
  • âś… Best for: Smaller shipments like a few boxes, bags, or personal effects.
  • âś… Pros: Cost-effective if you don’t need a whole container.
  • ❌ Cons: Takes a bit longer to load/unload since it’s combined with others.

💡 Tip: If you’re shipping a single car with no extra cargo, RoRo might be cheaper. But if you’re shipping a car plus household items, FCL is usually better.

How Much Does Container Shipping to Nigeria Cost?

The cost depends on several factors:

  1. Container Size – 20ft vs 40ft.
  2. Cargo Type – Cars, electronics, household goods, or mixed cargo.
  3. Shipping Method – FCL (full) vs LCL (shared).
  4. Haulage Distance – If your cargo needs to be transported from another U.S. city to Dallas before loading.
  5. Port of Arrival – Most shipments arrive at Lagos (Apapa or Tin Can Island).

Average Price Range (Estimates):

  • 20ft Container (FCL): $3,500 – $5,000
  • 40ft Container (FCL): $5,500 – $8,000
  • Shared Container (LCL): Depends on volume/weight, starting as low as $500

(⚠ Note: Prices vary with season, demand, and cargo type—always request a quote before shipping.)

At Jafbis Logistics, we provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees so you know exactly what to expect.

How Long Does It Take?

On average, container shipping from the USA to Nigeria takes 4–6 weeks.

  • This includes time for loading, transit, customs clearance, and unloading.
  • Shipping from Dallas is efficient because it’s a central logistics hub.

We provide tracking updates so you always know where your container is.

Required Documents for Container Shipping

Just like with cars, you’ll need the right paperwork to avoid delays:

  • Bill of Lading (shipping contract)
  • Packing list (what’s inside the container)
  • Commercial invoice (if shipping for business)
  • Car documents (title, bill of sale) if shipping vehicles
  • Valid ID (passport or driver’s license)

Our team at Jafbis Logistics helps you prepare and check these documents so customs clearance is smooth on both the U.S. and Nigerian sides.

Why Choose Container Shipping Over RoRo?

RoRo shipping is great for cars, but containers offer some key advantages:

  • đź”’ More secure for high-value shipments.
  • 📦 Can combine different items (cars + goods + personal effects).
  • 🏠 Perfect for families relocating or businesses shipping in bulk.
  • 🌍 Reliable delivery with less exposure to outside elements.

If safety and flexibility matter more than just price, container shipping is the way to go.

Why Ship with Jafbis Logistics?

At Jafbis Logistics LLC, we make container shipping simple and stress-free by offering:

  • âś… FCL and LCL options
  • âś… Nationwide haulage to our Dallas hub
  • âś… Transparent pricing—no hidden costs
  • âś… Expert support with paperwork and customs
  • âś… Regular shipment updates until your cargo arrives in Nigeria

Whether you’re sending a few boxes or an entire container of vehicles, we treat your shipment like it’s our own.

Final Thoughts

Container shipping from the USA to Nigeria is one of the most reliable ways to move cars, goods, and personal effects across the ocean. By choosing the right option—FCL or LCL—you can ship safely, affordably, and with peace of mind.

At Jafbis Logistics LLC, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

🚢 Ready to ship your container?
📞 Contact Jafbis Logistics