Welcome to Informationhood.com! My name is Serome, and today I want to share my insights on starting an importation business in Nigeria. This post will guide you through the basics of importing legal items into Nigeria, from online sourcing to shipping and selling.
Before we dive in, one key point: importation requires sufficient cash. Without adequate capital, it can be challenging to grow your business.
Understanding the Importation Business
Importation is not a get-rich-quick scheme. Some blogs or social media posts may claim you can start with as little as ₦10,000, but realistically, that amount is too small for meaningful profit. Importation needs money, patience, and effort.
Even if you plan to use fast delivery services like DHL or FedEx, shipping costs can eat into your profits. For instance, shipping a $65 phone with only $50 may not cover expenses. This is why top importers often use affordable shipping companies that may take longer but save costs.
Don’t Quit Your Job Yet
If you currently have a job, I advise you not to quit immediately. Importation takes time to generate consistent profit. Many people get scammed by individuals selling eBooks promising 500k weekly income from importation. Real importers spend time researching suppliers, managing orders, and marketing products—they don’t sell eBooks for quick cash.
Personal Experience
When I started, my first order made a small profit. Unfortunately, my second and third orders resulted in losses totaling over ₦175,000. The lessons I learned from these mistakes shaped my approach.
Two Ways to Import: Online vs. Offline
There are two main methods of importation:
-
Offline Importation: Traveling to the country to buy products. This method is ideal but requires a lot of capital, a visa, and time.
-
Online Importation: Ordering products from international websites like AliExpress or Alibaba, where sellers ship goods to Nigeria. This is the easiest way to start but comes with some risks.
Starting with Online Importation
Online importation allows you to keep your current job while starting your business. You’ll need at least ₦50,000 for the first purchase and shipping costs.
"Give thanks to the Lord for He is good: His love endures forever."
Steps to start online importation:
-
Research Products: Identify products that sell fast in Nigeria. Phones and laptops are excellent starting points.
-
Find Suppliers: Use platforms like AliExpress and Alibaba. Verify suppliers and check reviews.
-
Negotiate & Communicate: Contact at least 10 sellers to compare prices and quality. Skype is useful for live video chats with sellers.
-
Start Small: Import a small quantity initially to minimize risk and learn the process.
Shipping from China to Nigeria
Shipping is crucial. Some companies are fast but expensive, while others are slow but affordable. Be cautious of agencies promising “too-good-to-be-true” deals.
Chrisvicmall is a reliable shipping company offering three options:
-
Express Shipping: 2-3 days, $12 per kg (0.1–5kg), $11 per kg (5.1–10kg), $10 per kg (above 10kg). Batteries and liquids cannot be shipped.
-
Triweekly Shipping: Cost-effective for mid-sized shipments.
-
Normal Shipping: Cheapest but slowest option.
To use Chrisvicmall, simply send them the item link and payment—they will purchase and ship it for you.
Tips for Success
-
Research your market: Make sure your items have buyers before placing an order.
-
Start small: Minimize risk by importing a few units initially.
-
Be patient: Shipping and sales take time.
-
Stay alert: Avoid scams and fake suppliers.
Final Thoughts
Importation in Nigeria can be profitable if done correctly. Start with online importation to learn the process, manage risk, and gradually build capital for larger orders or offline importation.
