Currently, the largest producer of solar panels in the world is China, and as a sequel to that, some Nigerians started importing solar panels from China to Nigeria because there is a variety of solar panels that are produced in China, which leads to lots of profits for those who are already doing the business.
However, just like other importation businesses, importing solar panels from China is not always easy because there are lots of processes involved. Hence, it is important for one to know how to import solar panels from China to Nigeria before joining the business to avoid being stranded along the line.
In this article, we are going to show you the simplified procedures on how to import solar panels from China to Nigeria to enable you to kick-start your solar panel importation business and earn a decent living from it.
How to Import Solar Panels from China to Nigeria
Importing solar panels from China to Nigeria involves different steps. These procedures are important because once you understand them, you will be able to import your desired solar panels from China to the country with ease. The detailed steps you can follow to import solar panels from China to Nigeria are detailed below:
1. Find a Reliable Chinese Solar Panel Supplier
The first step to take when you want to start importing solar panels from China to Nigeria is to find a reliable Chinese solar energy company that you can buy solar panels from. When choosing a Chinese solar panel supplier/partner, you should look for companies with popular brand names that are known for quality and offer reliable services too. You can choose a reliable Chinese solar panel supplier by conducting thorough research on your company of interest, reading reviews about the companies, and getting their solar panel samples to ensure that they adhere strictly to the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) regulations and standardization.
Some of the popular Chinese solar panel suppliers that you can buy from include
- Trina Solar
- JA Solar Holdings
- Risen Energy
- Jinko Solar
- JinkoSolar
- Suntech Power
- Yingli
- Xi’an LONGI Silicon Materials
- Chint/astronergy
- Hanwha Qcells
- BYD
- China Solar Ltd
- GCL System Integration
- Shanghai Aiko Solar
- Aaba Solar Co., Ltd
- First Solar
- Tongwei Solar
- China Sunergy
- Hareon Solar
- Foshan Sunmart Electronic Co., Ltd
- Rosen Solar
- My Solar Technology Co., Ltd
2. Know the HS Code for Solar Panels
In one of our previous articles, we discussed the HS code for solar panels in Nigeria, where we stated that the Harmonized System (HS) Code for solar panels in the country is 8541.42.00.00 and 8541.43.00.00. These HS Codes, 8541.42.00.00 and 8541.43.00.00, are subject to 0% duty and VAT-free import according to the ECOWAS Common External Tariff (CET) for 2022-2027.
So, if you want to start importing solar panels from China to the country, you should know this code to enjoy the 0% import duty and VAT-free on all your solar panel importations into the country.
In addition to knowing the HS Code, you should also check the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) additional documentation, like SONCAP certification (Standards Organisation of Nigeria Conformity Assessment Program), for ease of importation.
3. Complete Negotiation and Finalize Your Purchase
Once you identify a reliable Chinese solar panel supplier, you can go ahead to discuss the price per unit, shipping terms, and warranty.
During the negotiation, don’t forget to ask about Incoterms (FOB, CIF, or EXW). Meanwhile, for beginners, CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) is easier since the supplier handles shipping to your Nigerian port. You should also get a proforma invoice before making payment.
Since you are a beginner, for safe payment, you can use methods like Alibaba Trade Assurance, Letter of Credit (for big orders), and Bank Transfer (T/T) if you trust the supplier.
4. Choosing a Suitable Shipping Method
Once you have completed your payment, the next thing is to choose the appropriate shipping method. The two common shipping methods are air freight and sea freight. Air freight is most suitable for urgent or smaller shipments, while sea freight is best for larger quantities, and it is cost-effective too.
With air freight, you can receive your solar panels within 3 to 7 days, but it is always expensive. However, sea freight usually takes from 20 to 40 days, but it is often cheaper when compared with air freight.
The shipping cost for a 20-foot container is $2,500, while for a 40-foot container it is $2,750. However, the cost for groupage (per cubic meter) is $350
5. Packaging and Handling of the Solar Panels
Since the solar panel is fragile and any crack can lead to its damage, it should be handled with care. The solar panels should be securely packed in sturdy crates with adequate cushioning material to prevent damage. Not only that, but special handling requirements, such as temperature control and careful loading/unloading procedures, should be communicated to the logistics provider to ensure safe transportation.
6. Documentation and Customs Clearance
The documents that you will require for customs clearance when the solar panels arrive in Nigeria are a commercial invoice, bill of lading, packing list, product certificate, import declaration form, and certificate of origin. Ensure that you carefully prepare these documents to avoid delays and complications during customs clearance.
7. Familiarity With Nigerian Customs Regulations for Solar Equipment
Finally, you must familiarize yourself with the Nigerian customs regulations to ensure a smooth import process. Although the solar panels are duty and VAT-free, you should understand their regulations and use the suitable HS code to benefit from these tax benefits.
Conclusion
As a Nigerian, you can successfully import solar panels from China with ease by just connecting with a reliable supplier, understanding the HS Code, completing your payment to the supplier, choosing a suitable shipping method, and providing proper documentation for seamless customs clearance. If you follow these steps succinctly, you will be able to import solar panels from China to Nigeria with ease.