How to clear goods at a Lagos port

Clearing imports in Nigeria follows the same core steps at Apapa, Tin Can Island, Lekki and Onne. Starting before the ship arrives is what keeps storage and demurrage down.

1. Open Form M before shippingYour bank opens Form M on the customs trade portal before the goods ship. It records what you are importing and its value.
2. Ship and get the bill of ladingYour supplier ships and sends the original documents: bill of lading, commercial invoice and packing list.
3. Get the PAARCustoms issues the Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) from your Form M and documents. It confirms classification and value.
4. Lodge the declaration and pay dutyA licensed agent lodges the declaration. You pay the assessed duty through the official customs payment channels.
5. Settle terminal and shipping-line chargesPay the terminal and get the delivery order from the shipping line so the cargo can leave.
6. Examination and releaseCustoms may examine the cargo physically or by scanner. Once cleared, the release is issued.
7. Exit the portBook the truck through the port's call-up system and move the cargo out before storage charges start.

Document checklist

• Form M (opened through your bank)
• Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR)
• Bill of lading
• Commercial invoice and packing list
• Certificate of origin, where it applies
• Product certificates for regulated goods, such as SONCAP from SON or a NAFDAC permit for food and drugs
• For cars: the vehicle title or export certificate