Crossing Borders: How DHL Empowers Nigerian SMEs to Go International

23 June 2025

Nigeria’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are the lifeblood of the nation’s economy, accounting for 96% of all businesses and nearly half of the GDP. Yet, the path to long-term success—especially on the global stage—remains challenging. Only one in five Nigerian SMEs makes it past the five-year mark, and even fewer manage to break into international markets.

The obstacles are familiar: complex customs procedures, unpredictable logistics, high shipping costs, and paperwork that never seems to end. But exporting doesn’t need to be a stumbling block. With the right partner and tools, international trade can become your business’s fastest route to growth.

DHL has developed practical solutions designed specifically to help Nigerian SMEs navigate these challenges, transforming barriers into stepping stones for success.

Take the Complexity Out of Customs

Customs clearance is one of the most common pain points for Nigerian exporters. Every country has its own rules—and even for seasoned traders, the requirements can feel overwhelming. That’s where working with a trusted logistics partner like DHL makes all the difference.

DHL’s digital tools are built to simplify the process:

MyDHL+ Portal:
This all-in-one online platform allows you to manage every aspect of your international shipping, including:

Booking and scheduling shipments
Managing imports and exports
Real-time tracking of your packages

MyGTS (My Global Trade Services):
Navigate customs with confidence using MyGTS. This tool enables you to:

Research shipping requirements and costs by destination
Find the right product classification codes (HS codes)
Calculate duties, taxes, and total landed cost ahead of time
Save your most-used searches and codes for quick access

DHL Express Commerce Solution:

For Nigerian businesses selling online, seamless integration with major e-commerce platforms and marketplaces is essential.

DHL Express Commerce provides:

Streamlined order management
Automated shipping workflows
Faster fulfillment and delivery

Expert Logistics, Local Experience

DHL has supported Nigerian exporters since 1979, earning a reputation for reliability and local expertise. Our teams understand the intricacies of international shipping and can help you:

Navigate foreign markets and regulations
Solve unexpected shipping challenges quickly
Manage packaging and warehousing to safeguard your products in transit
Deliver a consistently positive experience for your customers

Smart Strategies to Reduce Shipping Costs

Shipping is often the second biggest expense for export-focused SMEs, right after manufacturing. DHL helps you manage these costs with a tailored approach:

Choose the shipping method that best fits your product type and delivery timeline
Consolidate shipments with other exporters to access lower rates
Select packaging that protects goods and minimizes excess weight
Take advantage of flat-rate shipping options where available
Develop a clear, cost-effective shipping policy for your business
Consider third-party insurance for added peace of mind

Secure Cross-Border Payments

Currency fluctuations can erode your profits.

To protect your business:

Invoice customers in stable currencies such as US dollars or euros
Use secure payment solutions, including blockchain and escrow services, to guarantee funds until delivery is confirmed

Your Global Growth Partner

At DHL, we do more than deliver packages—we help Nigerian SMEs unlock their export potential. By streamlining customs, reducing costs, and simplifying logistics, we empower you to compete—and win—on the global stage.

Ready to take your business worldwide? Open a DHL business account today and let’s map your path to international success.