The Cheapest Way to Ship from the U.S. to Nigeria
“Is anybody coming from the U.S. to Nigeria soon? I need help with getting a package delivered.”
I've seen tweets like this across my X timeline and always wonder if shipping companies are no longer functioning. I didn't realise that shipping can be expensive until I started learning more about logistics.
What if I tell you that you can ship your items from the U.S. to Nigeria without breaking the bank or waiting for the next person who is visiting? Yes! It's possible. In this article, we will compare the shipping costs of different couriers so we can select the cheapest and best-value package delivery options.
To illustrate the cheapest shipping rates available, we will use a sample shipment from Houston to Lagos, Nigeria's commercial hub.
Example Shipment Details:
- Weight of package: 2kg
- Box Dimensions: 12in x 11in x 1.5in
- Contents for customs forms: Shipment of books
- Origin: Houston, United States
- Destination: Lagos, Nigeria
To determine the cheapest international shipping options, we have evaluated and ranked various U.S.-to-Nigeria services for sending a package based on prices from 11 couriers.
Related: How to Choose the Right Shipping Company for Your Business Needs
Cheapest Shipping Option
Heroshe is the cheapest option for shipping packages from the U.S. to Nigeria. At just $22, it is an affordable option to send packages if you are budget-conscious. With a delivery window of 7 - 14 working days and excellent tracking, Heroshe is all-round credible and reliable.
Fastest Shipping Option
FedEx International Priority is the fastest shipping option for those who prioritise speed above all else. With a delivery time of just 1 to 3 working days, your package will reach Nigeria in the shortest possible time. This service equally offers excellent tracking. The only downside is that it is very expensive and may not be the best option for budget-conscious shippers.
Factors That Influence Shipping Costs
Distance:
The distance to which an item is being shipped will determine the cost. Shipping within a country will be cheaper than shipping outside the country. And if you are moving continents (in the case of America and Africa), it will be much more expensive.
Weight and Size:
Heavier and bulkier items cost more to ship than lighter items. Most shipping companies charge shipping fees based on weight and dimensions, so large, heavy packages can quickly add to the cost.
Shipping Method:
Different methods like air freight, ocean freight, or land transport have different costs. Air freight is usually faster but more expensive, while ocean freight is cheaper but slower.
Shipping Speed:
From the courier above, we see that the shipping option with the faster timeline is much more expensive than the others. If you want express or same-day shipping, you will have to pay a premium fee.
Fuel Prices:
Shipping costs are usually tied to fuel prices. When fuel costs rise, so do shipping costs, especially for transportation modes that rely heavily on fuel, like trucks and ships.
Additional Services to Look out for in a Shipping Company
Some additional services you want to look out for in a shipping company are:
Insurance:
Shipping insurance provides financial protection in case of loss, damage, or theft during transit. Different insurance options may be available depending on the value and nature of your goods. If insurance is very important to you, compare insurance coverage and costs from different providers to find the best fit for your needs.
Customs Assistance:
Customs is an important aspect of international shipping, and navigating the process can be complex. With this service, the shipping company will handle the paperwork and ensure import and export laws compliance. It usually comes at an extra cost, but with a service like Heroshe, you don’t have to worry about paying for it.
Tracking and Visibility:
Real-time tracking tools allow you to monitor your shipment's progress, providing peace of mind. In your search for a shipping company, you have to look for one that has a user-friendly tracking interface. It is also an added advantage if they send notifications about the whereabouts of your items at every point in time.
Special Handling:
If you're shipping hazardous materials, perishable goods, or high-value items, ensure the shipping company has the expertise and certifications to handle them safely.
Customer Support:
Responsive customer support is important for addressing questions or concerns promptly. Look for companies with multiple communication channels (phone, email, chat) and positive reviews about their response rate.
Choosing the Right Shipping Company:
Like every other decision you make, you want to be sure you are choosing the right company for your shipping needs. Here are some factors to consider:
Your Needs:
What are your shipping needs? Do you need to ship items urgently or frequently? Do you want shipping insurance and a way to track your shipment when in transit? Identify all your needs and use them to find a company you will be comfortable with.
Cost:
How much do you have for shipping? Knowing your budget can help you choose a shipping service that will serve you. To choose a shipping company based on cost, compare the costs of different services from various providers. Be sure to understand any hidden fees or surcharges.
Reputation and Reliability:
One major factor you should consider is the company's track record. Ask questions about the company and read customer reviews to gauge their reliability and service quality.
Save on Shipping Costs with Heroshe
Not only is the customs clearance process hectic, but it is also expensive. If you would rather not deal with customs wahala, Heroshe is your go-to shipping company. With no extra costs on customs clearance, you just have to pay for your shipment and have it delivered to your doorstep (at an extra cost), or you can pick it up from our Lagos warehouse.
Free shipping calculator: One of the most important aspects of international shipping is knowing how much you will spend on shipping so you can be better prepared. The shipping calculator gives you detailed information on the total amount you will pay for your shipment.
Tracking: We take your delivery experience to the next level with detailed tracking and constant updates that offer visibility and transparency on where your shipment is at all times.
Ready to ship from the U.S. to Nigeria? Create an account now to enjoy fast, affordable, reliable and convenient shipping with Heroshe.
