Sea, air or express: choosing how to ship from China

When you import from China, how your goods travel matters as much as what you buy. The three options DeeNova offers trade cost against speed in different ways.

Sea freight: the economical choice for big orders

Sea freight usually takes about 65 days from China to Nigeria, but it has the lowest cost per kilo. It suits heavy and bulky items — furniture, appliances, large cookware sets — and wholesale stock where a few extra weeks matter less than margin.

Air freight: the balanced option

Air freight typically takes 2–3 weeks. It costs more than sea but far less than express, which makes it the default for most personal orders and for restocking fashion, beauty and electronics between larger sea shipments.

Express: when time matters most

Express delivery takes around 4–5 business days. It is priced at a premium per kilo, so it makes sense for urgent orders, samples and small, light items.

Weight versus volume

Air and express shipments are usually charged on whichever is higher: the actual weight or the volumetric weight (length × width × height in centimetres, divided by the carrier's divisor). A large but light parcel can cost more than you expect. Our shipping calculator shows both figures so you can compare.

Save by consolidating

If you are buying from several suppliers, ask us to consolidate your items into one shipment. It reduces handling and clearance costs, whichever freight option you choose.

Still unsure?

Tell us what you are importing and how soon you need it, and our team will recommend the best option before you commit.