Bowagate Global
HS Code Lookup & Guide | Bowagate Global – Nigeria Freight Forwarding

HS Code Lookup & Reference Tool

Bowagate Global – Licensed Clearing Agents in Lagos. Search HS codes, view descriptions, reference duty rates, and check status (allowed/restricted). For official classification and personalized import advice, contact our experts directly.

📚 HS Code Guide (ECOWAS CET Reference)

Common categories, reference duty rates, and examples for Nigerian imports.

Category HS Chapter Reference Duty Rate Examples
Raw MaterialsVarious0–5%Industrial chemicals, machinery parts, unprocessed minerals
Essential Medicines300%Pharmaceuticals, vaccines, medical supplies
Books & Educational490–5%Textbooks, printed materials, educational equipment
Agricultural Equipment845%Tractors, harvesters, irrigation systems
Computers & Peripherals84.7110%Laptops, desktops, printers, servers
Mobile Phones85.1710%Smartphones, feature phones, tablets
Electronics8510–20%TVs, audio equipment, appliances
Solar Equipment85.4110%Solar panels, inverters, batteries
Motorcycles87.1120%Bikes, scooters, motorbikes
Furniture9420%Home and office furniture
Footwear6420–35%Shoes, boots, sandals
Textiles & Fabrics50–6320–35%Fabrics, clothing materials, yarn
Ready-made Garments61–6235%Shirts, dresses, suits, accessories
New Vehicles (≤2.5L)87.0335%Passenger cars, SUVs
Used Vehicles87.0335%Pre-owned cars (restrictions apply)
Rice (Polished)10.0610%White rice, parboiled rice
Poultry Products02.07BANNEDFrozen chicken (prohibited import)
Wine & Spirits22.04–22.0820–50%Wines, champagne, spirits, liquors
Cosmetics3320%Beauty products, perfumes, skincare
Jewelry7120–35%Gold, silver, precious stones

🚫 Banned & Restricted Items

  • Used Clothing (Okrika)

    Second-hand clothing imports are prohibited to protect local textile industry. New clothing imports are allowed with proper documentation.

  • Used Refrigerators & Air Conditioners

    Banned due to environmental concerns and energy efficiency standards. Only new appliances with energy ratings are permitted.

  • Poultry Products (Frozen Chicken)

    Import of poultry products is prohibited to support local poultry farming. Requires special permits from Ministry of Agriculture.

  • Used Motor Vehicle Tires

    Prohibited import to reduce substandard products and environmental hazards. Only new tires meeting NIS standards are allowed.

  • Textile Fabrics (Specific Types)

    Cotton fabrics, synthetic textiles, and certain woven materials require SONCAP certification and may face import restrictions.

  • Vegetable Oils (Palm Oil, etc.)

    Subject to heavy tariffs and restrictions to protect local production. Requires permits from NAFDAC and Standards Organization.

  • Used Mattresses & Furniture

    Second-hand mattresses and upholstered furniture are prohibited due to health and sanitation concerns.

  • Narcotics & Psychotropic Substances

    Absolutely prohibited except for authorized medical/pharmaceutical institutions with NDLEA and NAFDAC approval.

  • Weapons & Military Equipment

    Firearms, ammunition, military uniforms, and security equipment require special permits from Office of NSA and are heavily restricted.

📋 Required Import Documents

Basic Documents

  • Form M (Import Declaration)
  • Commercial Invoice
  • Packing List
  • Bill of Lading / Air Waybill
  • Certificate of Origin

Regulatory Certificates

  • SONCAP Certificate (Standards)
  • Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR)
  • NAFDAC Certificate (Food/Drugs)
  • Phytosanitary Certificate (Plants)
  • Fumigation Certificate (Wooden packaging)

Financial Documents

  • Form M Payment Receipt
  • Valid Import Duty Payment
  • Bank Guarantee (if applicable)
  • Foreign Exchange Allocation
  • Insurance Certificate

Clearance Documents

  • Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Release
  • Terminal Operator Receipt
  • Port Authority Clearance
  • Shipping Line Delivery Order
  • Customs Entry Documentation

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find the correct HS code for my product?+

Use our search tool above to find HS codes by product name or browse by chapter. The Harmonized System is organized hierarchically - start with the broad category (Chapter), then section (Heading), and finally the specific product (Subheading). For complex items, consult with a licensed customs agent or the Nigeria Customs Service for official classification.

Are these duty rates fixed?+

The rates displayed are reference rates following the ECOWAS Common External Tariff (CET) framework. While base rates are generally stable, additional levies or changes may be introduced. Always verify current rates with Nigeria Customs Service before finalizing imports.

Can I import banned items with a special permit?+

Most banned items listed are absolute prohibitions and cannot be imported even with permits. However, some "restricted" items may be importable with special licenses from relevant agencies (NAFDAC, SON, Ministry of Agriculture, etc.). The distinction is important - banned means never allowed, restricted means permitted under specific conditions.

What is the difference between restricted and banned items?+

Restricted items require special permits or approvals from regulatory bodies, while banned items are prohibited outright and cannot be imported under any circumstances. Always check the latest Nigeria Customs Service guidelines.

Do I need a clearing agent?+

While it's legally possible to clear your own goods, the process is complex and time-consuming. Licensed customs agents have expertise in documentation, tariff classification, and dealing with customs procedures. For first-time importers or high-value shipments, using a licensed agent is highly recommended to avoid delays or penalties.