Express shipping from the UK to Nigeria is growing increasingly popular, thanks to its reliability, speed, and the convenience it offers individuals and businesses alike. Whether you’re sending gifts to loved ones, e-commerce products to customers, or personal items, knowing which goods are safe and legal to ship helps avoid costly delays or confiscations at customs.
In this guide, we break down the top 10 items you can safely ship via express delivery from the UK to Nigeria, while also shedding light on packaging, customs requirements, and the role of trusted courier services like County Cargo.
Why Choose Express Shipping?
Before diving into the list, it’s important to understand the advantages of using express shipping:
- Speed: Most deliveries arrive in 3 to 5 working days.
- Tracking: You can monitor your package in real time.
- Insurance: Your items are protected during transit.
- Priority Customs Clearance: Faster processing at Nigerian customs.
For urgent or high-value items, express shipping is the preferred choice.
READ MORE:What to Know About Customs for Express Deliveries to Nigeria
Top 10 Items You Can Safely Ship via Express
1. Clothing and Fashion Accessories
Apparel such as T-shirts, dresses, shoes, bags, and even traditional African outfits can be sent without hassle. These items are lightweight, easy to package, and usually not subject to high customs duties.
Packaging Tip: Use vacuum-sealed bags to reduce weight and save on shipping costs.
2. Electronics (Phones, Laptops, Tablets)
Small electronics are among the most commonly shipped items to Nigeria. Whether for business use, resale, or personal gifts, electronics are safe to ship if declared properly.
Important: Always include original receipts or purchase documents. Ensure lithium batteries are packed according to airline and IATA safety standards.
3. Watches and Jewelry (Non-Luxury)
Watches, earrings, bangles, and fashion jewelry can be sent easily. Avoid high-value luxury items like gold or diamond-encrusted pieces unless using specialized courier services with customs clearance support.
4. Books and Educational Materials
Books, academic journals, and training manuals are welcome in Nigeria and typically exempt from customs duties. Ideal for students, educators, and NGO shipments.
5. Health and Beauty Products
Skincare, makeup, toiletries, and over-the-counter medications (like paracetamol, vitamins) are allowed. Prescription drugs require documentation and approval.
Check Before Sending: Ensure ingredients are not restricted in Nigeria (e.g., codeine-based products are banned).
6. Home Appliances and Kitchen Gadgets
Small items like blenders, toasters, kettles, or air fryers are safe to ship. Avoid bulky or commercial appliances unless arranged under freight.
7. Baby Items
Baby clothes, diapers, feeding bottles, and small toys are in high demand in Nigeria and can be sent via express without issues. These items are considered essentials and are usually low-risk.
8. Shoes and Footwear
From sneakers to sandals, footwear is popular and easily cleared. Use sturdy boxes and bubble wrap to prevent damage in transit.
9. Documents and Legal Papers
Whether it’s academic transcripts, property documents, or certificates, paperwork is one of the safest things to send express. Use tamper-proof document pouches for added protection.
10. Mobile Accessories
Chargers, cables, earphones, and screen protectors are lightweight, profitable for businesses, and in high demand. They ship easily and clear customs quickly when properly declared.
What You Cannot Ship via Express
To avoid seizure or delays, avoid sending the following:
- Cash or currency
- Liquids (unless permitted and safely packed)
- Perishables like fresh food or meat
- Weapons or sharp objects
- Pornographic materials
- Restricted pharmaceuticals
Always check with County Cargo or your logistics provider for the latest prohibited items list.
Customs & Documentation
To ensure smooth customs clearance in Nigeria:
- Attach an invoice detailing item name, quantity, and value
- Provide a valid receiver address with phone number
- Clearly declare the content – never hide or misrepresent the items
Items above ₦50,000 in value may incur customs duties. County Cargo provides customs advice for hassle-free clearance.
Packaging Tips for Safe Delivery
- Use durable boxes – especially for electronics or fragile items.
- Label clearly, including sender and receiver contact details.
- Seal properly – using tape to secure all edges.
- Add a cushioning layer – bubble wrap or packing peanuts protect fragile contents.
Why Choose County Cargo for Express Shipping?
County Cargo offers:
- Same-day dispatch
- End-to-end tracking
- Pre-clearance customs support
- Affordable rates
- Free packaging guidance
We’ve helped thousands of customers ship safely from the UK to Nigeria, with satisfaction guaranteed.
Conclusion
Express shipping is a smart, fast, and reliable way to send important items from the UK to Nigeria. With the right preparation, you can avoid delays, save money, and get your package delivered in days.
Whether you’re sending personal gifts, reselling fashion accessories, or delivering business documents, County Cargo is here to help make the process smooth and secure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the maximum weight allowed for express shipping?
Most couriers accept packages up to 30kg for express. Heavier shipments may require cargo freight.
Q2: How long does express shipping from the UK to Nigeria take?
Typically 3 to 5 working days, depending on the courier and customs clearance.
Q3: Do I need to pay customs fees in Nigeria?
Yes, for items above a certain value. County Cargo will help you calculate and prepare for any duties.
Q4: Can I send more than one item in a package?
Yes. Grouping items reduces cost, but declare everything accurately on your invoice.
