Nigeria is one of Africa’s largest economies and a major trade partner for Canadian businesses and families. With growing migration, education, and business links, demand for overseas container shipping continues to expand. Whether it’s vehicles, household goods, or commercial cargo, understanding the cost of shipping container from Canada to Nigeria is critical for budgeting and logistics planning.
This guide covers average prices, transit times, routes, and the advantages of hiring a professional container transport company.
Why Ship a Container to Nigeria?
There are multiple reasons why individuals and companies ship containers from Canada to Nigeria:
- Household Relocation: Families moving to Nigeria often send furniture, appliances, and personal effects.
- Automobile Shipping: Sedans, SUVs, and trucks are commonly shipped in 20ft or 40ft containers.
- Business & Trade: Machinery, manufactured goods, and retail products.
- Project Cargo: Construction materials, oil & gas equipment, or industrial machinery.
Key Nigerian Ports:
- Apapa Port (Lagos) – Nigeria’s largest container port.
- Tin Can Island (Lagos) – Handles vehicles and large volumes of cargo.
- Port Harcourt – Gateway for southern Nigeria.
Cost of Shipping Container from Canada to Nigeria
The cost of shipping container from Canada to Nigeria depends on container size, departure port, service type (FCL or LCL), and local handling fees.
- 20ft container: $3,500 – $4,800 CAD
- 40ft container: $6,200 – $7,800 CAD
- LCL (Less than Container Load): $110 – $160 per cubic meter
For larger shipments, many customers specifically research the cost of shipping 40ft container from Canada to Nigeria, since it offers the best value per unit of cargo.
Average Costs (2025 Estimates)
| Container Type | Service | Estimated Cost (CAD) | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20ft Standard | FCL | $3,500 – $4,800 | 28–35 days |
| 40ft Standard | FCL | $6,200 – $7,800 | 28–35 days |
| Shared Cargo | LCL | $110 – $160 / CBM | 32–40 days |
(Rates vary depending on seasonality, carrier capacity, and Nigerian port handling charges.)
FCL vs LCL Shipping Options
When planning container transport, customers can choose between:
- FCL (Full Container Load): Exclusive use of 20ft or 40ft container. Best for vehicles, households, or bulk shipments.
- LCL (Less than Container Load): Cargo is consolidated with other shipments. Best for small volumes.
| Feature | FCL (Full Container) | LCL (Shared Container) |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Vehicles, large households, commercial | Small moves, partial shipments |
| Security | Cargo travels alone in sealed container | Shared with other shippers |
| Cost | Higher overall, cheaper per unit | Lower total, but more per cubic meter |
| Transit Time | Faster, direct service | Slightly longer due to consolidation |
Transit Times & Routes
The transit time for shipping from Canada to Nigeria varies depending on the origin port and final Nigerian destination.
- Montreal → Lagos (Apapa/Tin Can): 28–32 days
- Halifax → Lagos: 25–30 days
- Toronto (via Montreal or Halifax): 30–35 days
- Vancouver (via transshipment): 35–40 days
With customs, drayage, and port handling included, total door-to-door shipping usually takes 5–7 weeks.
Customs & Documentation in Nigeria
Nigeria has strict customs requirements. To avoid penalties or delays, proper documentation is essential.
Required Documents:
- Bill of Lading (B/L)
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- SONCAP Certificate (Standards Organization of Nigeria)
- Form M (import declaration)
- Insurance Certificate
Professional support ensures paperwork is processed correctly, preventing long delays at Lagos or Port Harcourt.
Benefits of Using a Professional Container Transport Company
Arranging an overseas shipment independently is risky, especially with Nigerian customs regulations. Professional companies provide:
- Expert customs handling (SONCAP, Form M, and duty payments).
- Cargo insurance for protection against loss or damage.
- Predictable costs without hidden fees.
- Efficient routing through major Canadian ports.
- Door-to-door delivery with drayage and inland trucking in Nigeria.
DIY vs Professional Shipping
| Factor | DIY Arrangement | Professional Transport Company |
|---|---|---|
| Paperwork | High chance of mistakes or rejection | Managed by customs experts |
| Costs | Risk of hidden charges at destination | Transparent all-inclusive quotes |
| Risk | Cargo delays, inspections, penalties | Insurance + reliable delivery |
| Time | Weeks of personal coordination | Streamlined door-to-door service |
Why Choose Metropolitan Logistics
Metropolitan Logistics offers trusted solutions for the cost of shipping container from Canada to Nigeria, whether for families, students, or businesses.
- Canadian Coverage: Toronto, Montreal, Halifax, Vancouver.
- Nigerian Expertise: Lagos (Apapa, Tin Can), Port Harcourt.
- Service Options: FCL, LCL, drayage, inland delivery.
- Decades of Experience: Handling international moves and trade cargo.
👉 Learn more here: Container Transport Company
Conclusion
The cost of shipping container from Canada to Nigeria depends on size, port, and cargo type, but with a reliable logistics partner, you can ensure predictable pricing and smooth delivery. For households, vehicles, and commercial cargo, choosing a professional provider is the best way to save time and avoid costly mistakes.
📞 +1 (365) 829 5000
📧 service@metropolitanlogistics.ca
👉 Get a Container Shipping Quote
