Goods stuck at Lagos port: common causes and what to do
Why cargo gets stuck at Apapa, Tin Can or Lekki port, how demurrage builds up, and the steps importers and shippers can take now.
About 2 min readContent checked on
Most cargo stuck at Lagos port is a document problem: the description or value does not match Form M or the invoice, a SONCAP or similar certificate is missing, the container is selected for inspection, or the clearance system is down. Find out which step it is stuck at, supply or correct the documents, check the free time and demurrage, then complete inspection and release. Checking documents before shipping is the cheapest fix.
Information updated: 2026-10-05
Common causes
- Description, quantity or value does not match Form M, the commercial invoice or the bill of lading.
- A regulated product is missing its SONCAP or NAFDAC certificate.
- The value was under-declared, so Customs revalues it and imposes a penalty.
- The container is selected for inspection and waits in the queue to be opened.
- A clearance-system changeover or outage holds up payments and release.
- The consignee's details are incomplete, or duties and collection are late.
Steps to take
- Ask your clearing agent which step the cargo is stuck at and for Customs' written query.
- Supply any missing documents (certificates, corrected invoice, Form M amendment) as fast as possible.
- Check how much terminal storage and container detention has built up, and decide whether to request an extension.
- Attend the inspection, then pay duties and obtain release.
- Collect the container as soon as it is released to stop further charges.
How to avoid it next time
- Ask the consignee to send Form M so you can check the description and value before shipping.
- Get certificates for regulated products in advance.
- Declare the real value; do not under-declare.
- Use a forwarder with its own clearance team in Lagos that can handle problems on the spot.
Frequently asked questions
How does demurrage build up?
Terminals and shipping lines each give free days. After that, storage and container charges are billed per day, and the daily rate rises over time, so document problems need fixing fast.
Can my cargo switch to Lekki port?
Cargo that has already arrived usually cannot change port. For your next shipment, Lekki Deep Sea Port can be considered before booking, depending on the shipping line's calls and congestion.
If a duties-included shipment gets stuck, who pays?
The duties-included price covers normal clearance, inspection and duties. Extra duty and fines caused by an inaccurate description or value are not included; the quote lists this item by item.