What is detention?
Detention is the charge applicable, after the free time expires, for the use of the carrier’s full container inside the marine terminal, or container yard. This charge can also apply while the container is undergoing customs inspections, or while the cargo inside the container is being reworked for safety reasons.   .   

What is demurrage?
Demurrage is the charge applicable, after the free time expires, inside the terminal for the use of the land. 
 
In case of a demurrage dispute, email NG401-creditcontrol@msc.com (email subject: Dispute + Invoice Number), describing the reasons for the dispute. 

What are storage charges?
A storage charge is applicable, after the free time expires, for containers left inside the container yard (for the use of the land).
 
Questions about detention, demurrage, or storage charges?
Contact our Nigeria team.

What is VGM?

Verified gross mass or VGM refers to the exact, verified weight of a packed container. For safety reasons, vessel operators can only load a container if its weight has been verified.
 
In line with Safety of Lives at Sea (SOLAS) regulations, all marine terminals in NIGERIA are now allowed to use their certified scales to record shipment VGM. Contact our Export team on ng401-expdoc-dtx@msc.com for more information.

What do I need to include in my VGM instructions?

You must include the following on all VGM instructions:

• Booking or Bill of Lading (BL) number
• Container number
• VGM + weight measurement unit (lbs. or kgs.)
• Name of responsible party 
• Digital signature of the authorised signatory in all CAPITAL LETTERS.

How can I submit my VGM instructions?

•  myMSC (free of charge) 
•  EDI (via INTTRA) 
  
• Manually (via INTTRA) 
• Email: NG401-expbooking@msc.com (note: this email is only monitored for VGM declarations)

Guidelines for submitting your VGM instructions

• MSC prefers to receive a Shipper-Verified Gross Mass (VGM) before cargo is delivered. 
• Any Shipper of Record-signed VGM will override any VGM derived at or by the terminal.

Questions about VGM?
Contact our team

Imports 
View the full list of prohibited and restricted goods.
 
Exports 
View the full list of prohibited and restricted goods.

Ports and terminals
MSC operates services to and from the following ports and terminals in Nigeria.