Relocating to Nigeria? How to Ship Your Personal Effects from the UK

Moving from the UK to Nigeria is a major life transition, and shipping your personal belongings doesn't have to be stressful. This guide walks you through the entire process from packing to delivery at your new home.

Personal effects shipping by sea is the most economical option for relocations. At £55 per CBM (reduced rate for personal effects), a typical household move of 5-15 CBM costs £275-£975 for freight. For larger moves, a 20ft container at £1,800 accommodates up to 28 CBM — equivalent to a 1-2 bedroom flat.

Start planning your shipment 4-6 weeks before your move date. This allows time for collection, consolidation, and transit (6-8 weeks by sea). Create a detailed inventory of everything you're shipping — this is required for customs and helps if you need to make an insurance claim.

Nigerian customs grants favourable treatment to returning residents and those relocating. You may qualify for duty-free importation of personal effects if you can demonstrate you've been living abroad. Required documents include your passport, proof of UK residence (utility bills, tenancy agreement), and a declaration letter.

What to ship: furniture, kitchenware, clothing, books, personal electronics (laptops, phones), bedding, and sentimental items. What to leave behind: items that are cheaper to buy in Nigeria, extremely heavy furniture (shipping cost may exceed replacement cost), perishable goods, and items restricted by Nigerian customs.

We offer a full relocation service including home survey, professional packing, collection, shipping, customs clearance in Nigeria, and delivery to your door. Our team handles all documentation and coordinates with our partner network in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt.