Shipping Foodstuff and Groceries to Nigeria: The Do’s and Don’ts

Few things say “home” like food. Many of us in Calgary love sending treats back to family in Lagos, and just as many love receiving a taste of Canada in return for a special occasion. But food is also one of the trickiest things to ship, because it can spoil, leak, attract pests or be held up if it is not allowed.

Here is a friendly, practical guide to the do’s and don’ts of shipping foodstuff and groceries to Nigeria.

First, Ask Before You Pack

Rules about what food can enter Nigeria can change, and some items are restricted or not allowed at all. Certain items also have special rules for air freight. The simplest way to avoid trouble is to check with Yumee Express before you buy or pack any food item. We would much rather answer a quick question than have your box delayed.

The Do’s

Do choose shelf-stable foods

Items that stay safe at room temperature for a long time travel best. Examples families often consider include:

• Sealed packets of dry goods such as cereals, oats and pasta
• Sealed tins and jars from the shop
• Packaged snacks, biscuits and chocolates (keeping heat in mind)
• Tea, coffee and powdered drinks in sealed containers

Do keep everything in original, sealed packaging

Factory-sealed packages with clear labels are easier to identify at customs and much less likely to leak or spoil. Avoid repacking food into plain bags or containers.

Do check expiry dates

Pick items with plenty of time left before they expire. Your shipment needs time to travel, clear customs and reach your family, so give your food a comfortable margin.

Do pack against leaks

Even sealed bottles and jars can leak if they are knocked. Put any liquid or oily item inside a zip-lock bag, wrap it, and pack it upright in the middle of the box, surrounded by soft padding.

Do separate food from clothes and electronics

If something does leak, you do not want it soaking into new clothes or damaging a phone. Pack food in its own box, or in a clearly separated, well-sealed section.

Planning the rest of your shipment? See how to label and document your shipment and how to pack fragile items.

The Don’ts

Don’t send fresh or perishable food

Fresh meat, fish, dairy, fruit, vegetables and home-cooked meals are not suitable for regular freight. They can spoil quickly, create smells and attract pests, and many are restricted.

Don’t send homemade items in unlabelled containers

Homemade sauces or spices in old jars may be lovely, but unlabelled food is hard to identify and is more likely to be questioned.

Don’t forget the heat

Lagos is warm all year. Chocolate and some snacks can melt in transit or after arrival. Consider this when choosing treats, and pack sensitive items well away from the sides of the box.

Don’t overpack heavy items

Tins and jars are heavy. A box full of them can become too heavy to handle safely, and the weight adds to your cost. Mix lighter items in and keep weight balanced.

Sea or Air for Food?

For sealed, shelf-stable items with long expiry dates, sea freight can be a cost-effective option if you plan ahead. If you are sending treats for a specific date, such as a birthday or wedding, air freight may be the safer choice. Our sea freight vs air freight guide explains the differences, and our team can help you decide.

Write a Clear Item List

List every food item with its quantity and value. Be specific: “6 tins of tomato paste” is far better than “food”. A clear list helps your box move through customs smoothly. Our customs tips post has more advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I send homemade food like pepper soup spice or chin chin?

Homemade items in unlabelled containers are more likely to be questioned and can spoil. If you really want to send something homemade, ask us first and be ready to describe it clearly on your item list.

Can I put food in the same box as clothes?

It is better to pack food in its own box. If you must combine, seal food in zip-lock bags and keep it well away from clothes and electronics so a leak cannot spoil anything else.

A Taste of Love, Delivered Safely

Food from loved ones brings people together, even across an ocean. With the right choices and careful packing, your groceries can arrive in Lagos just as you sent them. Before you pack your next food box, reach out to Yumee Express, and we will help you send it the right way.