Introduction
For Nigerians living abroad, access to native food is not just a luxury—it’s a connection to home. From ogbono and egusi to pepper soup spice and dry fish, there’s growing demand in the diaspora for authentic food items.
Whether you’re shipping to family, running a food export business, or just helping a friend get their stock of Nigerian ingredients, understanding how to legally and efficiently ship food items from Nigeria to countries like the US, UK, and Canada is essential.
This article breaks down every step—from choosing the right food items to documentation, packaging, and picking a reliable logistics company.
Is It Legal to Ship Nigerian Foodstuff to the US, UK, and Canada?
Yes—but with conditions.
Each country has strict import regulations to protect consumers and agriculture from unsafe or prohibited items. Most Nigerian dry foods and spices can be shipped if properly packaged, labeled, and declared.
Commonly Allowed Items:
- Garri (dry, well-packaged)
- Egusi and ogbono seeds (dry, not ground)
- Dried fish and stockfish (well-wrapped, odor-proof)
- Crayfish (sealed in airtight packaging)
- Nigerian spices and herbs (labeled and dry)
- Palm oil (usually not allowed in some countries unless refined and sealed)
Prohibited or Restricted:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Wet or semi-processed foods
- Open/unsealed packages
- Palm oil (banned in Canada and sometimes restricted in the US/UK due to leakage and customs rules)
Always check with the FDA (US), DEFRA (UK), or CFIA (Canada) before shipping.
Step-by-Step Guide to Shipping Foodstuff Abroad
Step 1: Choose the Right Food Items
Select non-perishable, dried food products. Focus on:
- Long shelf life
- Low moisture content
- Non-odorous or tightly sealed items
- Legally allowed food in the destination country
Step 2: Package Properly
This is the most critical part. Bad packaging leads to:
- Food spoilage
- Customs seizure
- Leakages and bad reviews
Packaging Tips:
- Use vacuum-sealed or airtight bags
- Use aluminum foil or double-layer plastic before bagging
- Label contents clearly (e.g., “Dried Ground Ogbono – Not for resale”)
- Add silica gel for moisture control
- Use sturdy cartons or food-grade plastic containers
- Reinforce edges with tape and wrap with bubble wrap for protection
If you’re shipping large quantities for resale, consider using branded, barcoded labels and nutrition facts (for the US and UK).
Step 3: Documentation
You may need the following:
- Invoice or packing list (even if it’s a gift)
- Export permit (for commercial shipments)
- Health certificate or phytosanitary certificate (if required)
- Receiver’s full name and address
- Declaration of food content for customs
For commercial food exports, register with NAFDAC and NEPC in Nigeria to get the required approvals.
Step 4: Choose a Reliable Shipping Company
This is where many get it wrong. You need a logistics partner that:
- Has experience shipping food
- Knows how to package and handle perishables
- Provides tracking and updates
- Offers customs assistance
Recommended Companies:
- Afroshipper Logistics
- Specializes in foodstuff exports
- Ships to US, UK, Canada
- Affordable rates, door-to-door delivery
- Website: www.afroshipper.com
- DHL Express
- Fast delivery, ideal for small quantities
- International reputation
- Customs support
- Topship
- Transparent pricing
- Food export handling support
- Easy to use for SMEs
- GIG Logistics
- Domestic to international food shipping
- Warehouse and packaging services
Step 5: Select a Shipping Method
There are 3 main ways to ship foodstuff abroad:
1. Air Freight
- Fast (3–7 days)
- Ideal for perishables
- More expensive
- Often used by Afroshipper, DHL, Topship
2. Sea Freight
- Cheaper, especially for bulk
- Slower (4–6 weeks)
- Requires careful packaging and labeling
- Available for larger shipments
3. Courier (Door-to-door)
- Ideal for small parcels
- Fast and convenient
- Includes customs and delivery
For foodstuff, air freight or courier is recommended for quality preservation.
Step 6: Track Your Shipment
Always use a logistics provider that offers real-time tracking and status updates. Let your receiver know the ETA and send them the tracking number.
Some providers like Afroshipper even offer WhatsApp support for quick updates.
Cost of Shipping Foodstuff from Nigeria to Abroad
Costs depend on:
- Weight/volume
- Destination country
- Shipping method (air vs sea)
- Speed (express or economy)
Average Price Ranges:
| Country | 5kg Parcel | 10kg Parcel | 20kg Parcel |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | ₦30,000–₦40,000 | ₦50,000–₦65,000 | ₦90,000–₦120,000 |
| UK | ₦25,000–₦35,000 | ₦45,000–₦55,000 | ₦85,000–₦100,000 |
| Canada | ₦35,000–₦50,000 | ₦60,000–₦80,000 | ₦110,000–₦150,000 |
Prices are indicative and may vary by provider or packaging method.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Shipping Prohibited Items
Always check local laws in the destination country. - Poor Packaging
Smelly or leaking items get rejected or returned. - Undeclared Food
This can lead to customs fines or blacklisting. - Wrong Receiver Details
Double-check name, address, postal code, and phone number. - Using Inexperienced Courier Services
Use only companies experienced in foodstuff export.
Can You Ship Food Items as a Business?
Yes. Many Nigerians abroad want regular supplies of local food items.
To do this professionally:
- Register with NAFDAC and NEPC
- Package products professionally (label, date, batch)
- Follow food safety protocols
- Partner with reliable freight forwarders
- Maintain quality to build trust abroad
You can also sell on platforms like Etsy (for packaged spices) or via diaspora food stores.
Afroshipper: Your Partner for Foodstuff Export
Afroshipper Logistics has helped hundreds of Nigerians ship food to their families and customers abroad.
Why Choose Afroshipper?
- Food export experience
- Affordable rates
- Door-to-door delivery
- Strong UK, US, Canada network
- Custom support for food regulations
Whether you’re sending 5kg of garri or starting a mini-export business, Afroshipper is equipped to help.
Visit: www.afroshipperlogistics.com
Conclusion
Shipping foodstuff from Nigeria to the US, UK, and Canada is easier than ever—but it must be done right. With proper packaging, documentation, and a trustworthy logistics partner, you can share a taste of home with loved ones or build a thriving food export business.
Ready to ship? Start with a small parcel, choose a reliable courier like Afroshipper, and scale gradually. The diaspora is hungry—and the world is ready for Nigerian flavors.
