Export Logistics Guide
Master shipping, freight, and customs clearance for your African exports. From packaging to port performance, everything you need to move goods globally.
Shipping Methods Comparison
Sea Freight
Large volumes, non-urgent, cost-sensitive
15-45 days (Africa to Europe/US)
$500-2,000 per TEU
Advantages:
Considerations:
Ideal for: Raw materials, Bulk commodities, Heavy machinery, Non-perishables
Air Freight
Urgent, high-value, perishable goods
1-5 days worldwide
$3-8 per kg
Advantages:
Considerations:
Ideal for: Electronics, Pharmaceuticals, Fresh produce, Fashion, Samples
Road Freight
Regional/cross-border African trade
2-10 days within Africa
$0.05-0.15 per km/ton
Advantages:
Considerations:
Ideal for: Consumer goods, Food products, Building materials, General cargo
Rail Freight
Bulk cargo in rail-connected regions
Varies by route
Cheaper than road for bulk
Advantages:
Considerations:
Ideal for: Minerals, Coal, Grains, Containers (where available)
Container Types Guide
20ft Standard (TEU)
Dimensions: 5.9m x 2.35m x 2.39m
Capacity: 33 CBM / 28 tons
Best for: Heavy cargo, dense goods
40ft Standard (FEU)
Dimensions: 12m x 2.35m x 2.39m
Capacity: 67 CBM / 28 tons
Best for: Most common, general cargo
40ft High Cube
Dimensions: 12m x 2.35m x 2.69m
Capacity: 76 CBM / 28 tons
Best for: Light, voluminous cargo
Reefer (Refrigerated)
Dimensions: Same as standard
Capacity: Reduced due to equipment
Best for: Perishables, temperature-sensitive
Open Top
Dimensions: Same as standard
Capacity: Standard minus cover
Best for: Oversized cargo, machinery
Flat Rack
Dimensions: 20ft or 40ft base
Capacity: Varies
Best for: Heavy machinery, vehicles, boats
Packaging Requirements by Product
| Product Type | Recommended Packaging | Special Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Agricultural (Cocoa, Coffee) | Jute/sisal bags, FIBC bulk bags | Fumigation, moisture protection |
| Fresh Produce | Ventilated cartons, crates | Cold chain, phytosanitary cert |
| Processed Foods | Cartons, shrink wrap pallets | Food-grade materials, labeling |
| Minerals/Ores | Bulk, big bags, drums | Weight limits, hazmat if applicable |
| Textiles/Garments | Cartons, hanging rails | Protection from moisture |
| Electronics | Foam, anti-static materials | Fragile handling, insurance |
| Liquids | ISO tanks, drums, IBC | Hazmat regulations if applicable |
Customs Clearance Step-by-Step
Pre-Arrival Documentation
Submit cargo manifest, commercial invoice, packing list, and certificates before arrival.
Customs Declaration
File Single Administrative Document (SAD) with HS codes, values, and origin information.
Risk Assessment
Customs applies risk-based selection for physical inspection or direct release.
Duty Calculation
Customs assesses duties and taxes based on tariff classification and valuation.
Payment
Pay assessed duties, VAT, and any other charges through authorized channels.
Release
Receive release order and collect cargo from port/terminal.
Major African Ports
Port of Lagos (Apapa/Tin Can)
Major HubNigeria
Volume: 1.5M TEU/year
Port of Durban
Largest in AfricaSouth Africa
Volume: 2.8M TEU/year
Tanger Med
Mediterranean HubMorocco
Volume: 7M TEU/year
Port of Mombasa
East Africa GatewayKenya
Volume: 1.4M TEU/year
Tema Port
West Africa HubGhana
Volume: 1M TEU/year
Djibouti Port
Horn of AfricaDjibouti
Volume: 900K TEU/year
Choosing a Freight Forwarder: Checklist
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