Sending your first shipment home can feel like a lot to figure out. What can go in the box? Should it go by sea or air? Who picks it up in Lagos? If you have never shipped from Calgary to Nigeria before, this guide answers the questions first-time senders ask us most often, so you can plan with confidence.
Before You Ship: Planning Questions
How do I know whether to choose sea or air freight?
It comes down to what you are sending, how much of it there is and how soon it needs to arrive. Sea freight usually suits larger, heavier shipments that are not urgent, such as household items, foodstuff and bulk gifts. Air freight suits smaller, lighter or time-sensitive items. Our guide on air vs sea freight from Calgary to Nigeria walks through the trade-offs in more detail.
What can I send, and what is not allowed?
Most everyday items, such as clothes, shoes, toiletries, books, kitchenware and many packaged foods, are commonly shipped. Some items are restricted or prohibited by Nigerian rules or by carriers. Always check before you pack, because a single problem item can hold up a whole shipment. Start with our list of restricted and prohibited items, and if you are planning to send food, read our foodstuff do’s and don’ts.
How is the price worked out?
Shipping costs depend on both the weight and the size of your package. A light but bulky box can cost more than you expect, because carriers charge for the space it takes up. Our explainer on how shipping costs are calculated shows the difference between actual and volumetric weight. For an accurate price on your own shipment, use our instant quote tool.
When should I ship if it needs to arrive by a certain date?
Give yourself plenty of time, especially before Christmas, weddings and other busy seasons. Shipping volumes rise in the weeks before the holidays, and every step can take longer. If timing matters, contact us early and read our guide on when to ship for Christmas delivery to Nigeria.
Packing and Labelling Questions
What kind of box should I use?
Use a sturdy, double-walled box in good condition. Pack heavy items at the bottom and lighter items on top, and fill empty spaces so nothing moves. Seal every seam with strong tape. Fragile items and electronics need extra padding; see our guide to packing electronics and fragile items.
Do I need to list what is inside?
Yes. Keep an honest, itemised list of the contents with a realistic value for each item. Accurate descriptions help your shipment move through customs and make it easier to resolve any questions. Vague descriptions such as “personal stuff” can lead to delays.
How should I label my box?
Write the sender’s and the receiver’s full names and phone numbers clearly on the box, and keep a copy inside as well in case the outer label is damaged. Our guide on how to label and document your shipment covers the details step by step.
Questions About Your Receiver in Nigeria
What does my receiver need to do?
Make sure your receiver knows a shipment is coming and has the details they will need, such as the shipment reference, their valid ID and a phone number where they can be reached. Share their contact details with us accurately so our team can reach them when the package is ready.
Can someone else collect on my receiver’s behalf?
This depends on the pickup arrangements for your shipment. If your main receiver may be unavailable, ask our team before you ship about what is needed for someone else to collect, so there are no surprises on pickup day.
Will my receiver have to pay anything?
Depending on what you send and how it is valued, duties or other charges may apply in Nigeria. Ask us what is included in your quote before you ship, so you and your receiver know what to expect.
Common First-Timer Mistakes to Avoid
Most problems we see with first shipments come from a few simple things:
- Packing before checking the rules. Confirm restricted items first, not after the box is sealed.
- Overpacking one box. Very heavy boxes are harder to handle and more likely to burst.
- Leaving empty space. Loose items shift and break, and you pay for space either way.
- Incomplete receiver details. A wrong or missing phone number can slow pickup.
- Waiting too long before a holiday. Peak seasons fill up quickly.
For more pitfalls, read our list of common mistakes to avoid when shipping from Calgary to Nigeria.
Your First Shipment, Step by Step
- Decide what to send and check it against the restricted items list.
- Choose sea or air based on size, weight and timing.
- Get a quote so you know the cost up front.
- Pack and label your boxes carefully, with a contents list.
- Drop off or arrange your shipment with our Calgary team.
- Brief your receiver in Nigeria so they are ready for pickup.
Shipping home for the first time does not need to be stressful. With a little planning, your package can reach your loved ones in Lagos safely, and the next shipment will feel even easier.
Ready to ship to Nigeria?
Sea and air freight from Calgary and across Canada to Nigeria. Request a shipping quote.