Incoterms (short for International Commercial Terms) are essential when doing business across borders — especially between Nigeria and China. These global shipping terms define who’s responsible for what at each stage of the shipment. As an importer, understanding them helps you avoid disputes, delays, or unexpected costs.
Here are the most commonly used Incoterms in Nigeria-China trade:
📦 EXW – Ex Works
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What it means: The seller hands over goods at their warehouse or factory.
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Your responsibility: Everything from pickup to customs to delivery falls on you (the buyer).
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Good for: Experienced importers with logistics partners.
🚢 FOB – Free On Board
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What it means: Seller delivers goods to the vessel at the port of departure.
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Your responsibility: You take over once it’s on the ship — including insurance, customs, and delivery.
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Common for: Many sea freight shipments.
📋 CFR – Cost and Freight
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Seller pays: Shipping to the Nigerian port.
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Buyer pays: Customs clearance and delivery from port.
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Tip: Great if you want sellers to handle the first leg of the journey.
✅ CIF – Cost, Insurance, and Freight
Same as CFR but includes insurance during transit.
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Seller handles: Freight and insurance.
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Buyer handles: Customs duty and delivery on arrival.
📦 DDP – Delivered Duty Paid
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Most stress-free option: Seller handles everything, including delivery and duties.
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Ideal for: Importers who want a fully managed experience.
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Easy Emperor can arrange this for you via our partners in China.
💼 DDU – Delivered Duty Unpaid
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Seller handles: Shipment and delivery to Nigeria.
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Buyer handles: Paying the duty once the goods arrive.
At Easy Emperor, we work with you to select the Incoterm that best matches your budget, experience level, and comfort.
Need help interpreting a supplier contract? Let our team review it with you.
