WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CUSTOMS CLEARANCE IN NIGERIA. (AIR AND SEA)

Below are 11 tips for clearing your consignment in Nigeria:

1. Prior to shipping, the consignee in Nigeria completes and applies for Form M electronically (Form M is like an import license). This is done online through the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) /Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Trade Portal and is then transmitted to his/her bank with the following attachments:

        A.Proforma Invoice

        B. Insurance Certificate

        C. SON Product Certificate/SONCAP (If Required)

2. The Bank approves the Form M and generates a bank code otherwise known as a BA Number, and then sends/transmits the Form M to the Scanning Agent.

3. The Scanning Agent approves the Form M.

4. The Consignee forwards the Form M & BA Numbers to the Shipper. These numbers are to be shown on the Airway Bill/ Bill of Lading (AWB/BL).

5. Once shipped, the shipper provides the AWB/BL to the consignee for the processing of the Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR). The Report shows the duty rate /classification of the cargo. This document guides you while computing the Duty & Taxes.

6. The consignee’s customs agent prepares the Customs Entry and approaches customs for the Customs Assessment Notice.

7. The Consignee or his Customs agent pays custom’s duty at the Bank. The Consignee or Agent pays the Local Charges such as Airline Documentation Fee, Shipping & Terminal Company Local Charges. Other examples include: a. Air freight: NAHCO and SAHCOL Charges b. Sea freight: Port & Cargo, PTML, ENL Terminal, etc.

8. Customs examination is carried out.

9. Customs release and Exit notes are obtained. For Sea freight, Terminal Delivery Order (TDO) is also obtained. For Airfreight shipment, NAHCO/SAHCOL Gate Pass is also obtained.

10. The agent then positions his van/truck to take delivery of the shipment.

11. After loading, the van/truck proceeds to the customs exit gate for security check and final exit.