How to Ship Goods from Lagos to Kano — Complete Guide

The Lagos–Kano Corridor Overview

Lagos to Kano is one of Nigeria's most commercially significant corridors, connecting the commercial capital with the largest northern city. It serves as the main supply chain artery for goods flowing into the north.

Common cargo types: beverages and food products, textiles and fabric, electronics, building materials, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural goods on the return leg. Expected transit time: 18 to 30 hours.

Typical Rates: Lagos to Kano (2026)

Truck Type	Capacity	Estimated Rate (₦)
Medium truck (6-wheel)	5–10 tonnes	₦450,000 – ₦700,000
Large truck (10-wheel)	10–20 tonnes	₦700,000 – ₦1,100,000
Articulated/trailer	20–30 tonnes	₦1,100,000 – ₦1,800,000

Route Options

Route 1: Lagos → Ibadan → Abuja → Kaduna → Kano

The most commonly used route. Uses the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway and the Abuja–Kano Highway. Better road conditions but more checkpoints.

Route 2: Lagos → Ilorin → Kaduna → Kano

Slightly shorter distance through Kwara and Niger States. Road quality varies on some sections. Most experienced carriers choose Route 1 for reliability.

Documentation You Need

• Waybill — describing the cargo, weight, origin, and destination
• Invoice — for commercial goods crossing state lines
• Packing list — itemized breakdown of packages/pallets
• Proof of cargo ownership — especially for valuable or regulated goods

Tips for a Smooth Shipment

• Book at least 48–72 hours in advance for best carrier availability
• Properly package and palletize goods — long trips are harder on cargo
• Include a contact name and phone number at the Kano delivery address
• For perishables, specify refrigerated transport when posting your load
• Always use an escrow-backed platform — never pay cash to informal brokers