Apapa vs Tin Can vs Lekki Deep Sea Port: Which Lagos Port Is Your Cargo Using?

Most sea cargo for Lagos arrives at one of three gateways: Apapa, Tin Can Island or Lekki Deep Sea Port. You usually don't choose the port directly (the shipping line's service decides it), but knowing which one your container is heading to helps you plan clearance, haulage and costs.

Apapa (Lagos Port Complex)

Apapa is Nigeria's oldest and busiest port, handling containers and general cargo through several terminals. Its strengths are the range of services and the experience of the ecosystem around it. Its challenge has long been road access: truck traffic on the approach roads, now managed through the Nigerian Ports Authority's electronic call-up system for trucks.

Tin Can Island Port (including PTML)

Tin Can Island, next to Apapa, handles containers and general cargo, and includes the PTML terminal, Nigeria's main roll-on/roll-off terminal for vehicles. PTML was also where Customs first piloted its B'Odogwu clearance platform. If you import vehicles, your cargo will very likely pass through here.

Lekki Deep Sea Port

Lekki Deep Sea Port, east of the city in the Lekki Free Zone area, started commercial operations in 2023. It is a deep-water port built for larger container vessels, with modern equipment. For importers in the Lekki–Epe corridor it can shorten haulage; for those on the mainland, the haulage distance can be longer than from Apapa or Tin Can.

What the port changes for you

• Haulage cost and time: the distance and route from the port to your warehouse.
• Clearance routine: each terminal has its own procedures for examinations, payments and gate-out.
• Charges: terminal storage and handling charges differ by operator.
• Empty returns: the shipping line's holding bay may be far from where you unload.

Planning tips

• Ask your forwarder which port and terminal the service calls at before you book.
• Have Form M, PAAR and permits ready before arrival, whichever port it is.
• Book haulage early so the container leaves as soon as it is released.
• Plan the empty return when you plan delivery.

We clear and haul containers from all three Lagos ports. Tell us your bill of lading details and we will confirm the terminal and plan the clearance.