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10 practical tips for faster customs clearance
From document preparation, writing descriptions and early declaration to working with your clearing party: 10 ways to make clearance faster and less error-prone.
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The key to faster clearance is getting documents right the first time: specific descriptions, consistent pieces, weight and value, certification done early, the real value declared, documents submitted and pre-declared before arrival, plus accurate consignee details, a valid tax ID and someone on the ground to handle problems.
Information updated: 2026-10-03
10 tips
- Be specific: write "stainless steel kitchen knives", not "kitchenware".
- One consistent set of documents: description, pieces and weight match across invoice, packing list, bill of lading and declaration.
- Get certification early: SONCAP, PVoC, NAFDAC and so on, done before shipping.
- Declare the real value: keep the purchase contract and payment receipts.
- Submit documents before arrival: complete the pre-declaration before the vessel arrives.
- Accurate consignee details: name, address, phone and tax ID match the importer's registration.
- Flag sensitive goods: tell your clearing party in advance about battery-powered goods, liquids, powders and branded goods.
- Pack for easy inspection: stack the same goods together and label cartons clearly.
- Confirm free container time: avoid detention charges during clearance.
- Follow policy announcements: adjust promptly when duties, systems or certificate requirements change.
What the consignee can do
- Complete importer registration and tax ID registration in advance.
- Consignees in Nigeria should process the Form M through their bank in advance.
- Stay reachable by phone so you can respond quickly when the clearing party needs more documents.