One of the most important parts of exportation is shipping — moving your goods safely from Nigeria to foreign buyers. Many first-time exporters worry about which method to choose, how much it will cost, and which documents are required.
At Gooven Multiservice Ltd, we make the process simple, practical, and stress-free. Through Gooven Foods and Gooven Trade Academy, we guide exporters from packaging to final delivery.
This article explains exactly how to ship Nigerian food products abroad, comparing sea freight and air freight, and how to decide which option suits you best.
1. Understand the Two Main Shipping Methods
Sea Freight is best for bulk cargo such as palm oil, crayfish, ogbono, garri, and egusi. It is slower but cheaper, especially for heavy or large quantities.
Air Freight is faster but more expensive. It is ideal for small, high-value, or urgent deliveries such as spices or packaged samples.
Pro Tip: New exporters often start with shared or group shipping to reduce costs. Gooven provides a structured Shared Container Export Program that lets you send smaller volumes safely.
2. Pre-Shipment Preparation
Before shipping, complete these basic steps:
1. Product Inspection and Packaging – ensure the goods meet export-quality standards.
2. Documentation and Registration – obtain CAC, NEPC license, and other certificates.
3. Labeling and Batch Coding – print product name, expiry date, and country of origin.
4. Freight Booking – select a reliable freight forwarder or shipping company.
Gooven handles all of these under one roof so exporters don’t need to guess what to do next.
3. Documents Required for Both Sea and Air Freight
| Document | Purpose |
| Commercial Invoice | Lists buyer and seller details and payment amount |
| Packing List | Shows quantities, weights, and dimensions |
| Bill of Lading / Airway Bill | Official proof of shipment |
| Certificate of Origin | Confirms Nigeria as the source |
| Phytosanitary Certificate | Certifies plant-based product safety |
| Fumigation Certificate | Needed for wooden or plant products |
| Health Certificate | Ensures food is safe for consumption |
| Export License (NEPC) | Legal authorization to export |
Gooven ensures all these are prepared accurately and submitted on time.
4. How Sea Freight Works — Step-by-Step
1. Booking: Reserve space with a shipping line or freight forwarder.
2. Container Loading: Products are sealed in a 20 ft or 40 ft container.
3. Customs Clearing: All documents are verified by Nigerian Customs.
4. Shipment: The vessel sails to the destination port.
5. Arrival and Delivery: Buyer receives goods after clearing at their end.
Duration: Between 25 to 45 days depending on destination.
Best For: Palm oil, crayfish, ogbono, garri, spices in bulk.
5. How Air Freight Works — Step-by-Step
1. Freight Agent Booking: Reserve a slot with a verified air cargo company.
2. Packaging & Weighing: Goods are weighed and charged per kg.
3. Security Screening: All packages are scanned for safety.
4. Documentation Submission: Provide Airway Bill and invoice copies.
5. Dispatch & Delivery: Products arrive within 3 to 7 days.
Best For: Small orders, samples, or lightweight items like dried pepper and spices.
6. Sea vs Air Freight — Which Should You Choose?
| Factor | Sea Freight | Air Freight |
| Cost | Cheaper for bulk | More expensive per kg |
| Speed | 25–45 days | 3–7 days |
| Volume | Large capacity | Limited by weight |
| Risk | Slightly higher (spillage, delay) | Lower risk but costly |
| Ideal for | Palm oil, crayfish, garri in bulk | Spices, samples, urgent orders |
Pro Tip: Gooven advises first-time exporters to start with shared sea freight for better profit margins and controlled risk.
7. How Gooven Simplifies Shipping for Exporters
Instead of handling ten different agents, Gooven gives you one integrated system:
– Gooven Foods handles product processing and packaging.
– Gooven Trade Academy teaches the step-by-step shipping process.
– Gooven’s Shared Container Program combines small exporters to share space and cut costs.
– Gooven Logistics Partners manage clearance and tracking for fast delivery.
You focus on sales; we handle the logistics.
Conclusion
Exporting Nigerian food products is easier than most people think when you understand how shipping works. Whether you choose sea freight for affordability or air freight for speed, success depends on preparation, documentation, and working with the right partners.
At Gooven Multiservice Ltd, we combine training, logistics, and mentorship so that you can export with confidence and consistency.
Gooven Multiservice Ltd — Delivering Quality from Nigeria to the World.