Clearing at Apapa (Lagos Port Complex)
Apapa is Nigeria's oldest and busiest port. Most containers here are handled by APM Terminals Apapa, and trucks reach the terminals through the Nigerian Ports Authority's electronic call-up system.
Updated October 2026.
What to know about Apapa (Lagos Port Complex)
- Containers: most boxes land at APM Terminals Apapa. Your shipping line tells you which terminal holds your cargo.
- Truck access: export and import trucks are booked through the NPA's electronic call-up, so build that into your timeline.
- Paperwork starts before arrival: Form M is opened through your bank before shipment, and the PAAR is issued by customs before release.
See your duty line by line in seconds, then let licensed agents at Apapa (Lagos Port Complex) compete for your shipment.
Calculate my dutyCommon questions
How long does clearing take at Apapa?
Once Form M, PAAR and duty payment are in place, release depends on examination and terminal queues. Agents start work before the vessel arrives so storage charges don't build up.
Can I clear a car at Apapa?
Yes. Cars arrive both in containers and on roll-on/roll-off vessels. Many RoRo cars in Lagos discharge at Tin Can Island instead, so check your bill of lading.
What does it cost to clear a container at Apapa?
Statutory duties depend on the goods' value and tariff band. Use the calculator for those. Terminal, shipping-line and agent charges come on top, and agents quote those.
Get competing quotes from licensed clearing agents
Tell us about your shipment once. Up to three NCS-licensed customs agents at your port compete for the job and quote you directly on WhatsApp. Free for importers, no obligation.