The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has introduced a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to regulate courier companies operating under the Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) Incoterm.
In a statement, NCS Spokesman Abdullahi Maiwada said the initiative aims to create a unified framework covering all operational aspects, including registration, manifest submission, declaration, valuation, clearance, delivery, and compliance monitoring, in line with global best practices.
He noted that the DDP initiative is grounded in international legal standards and designed to align with global trade practices.
“This procedure draws its legal foundation from the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Incoterms 2020, the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, the World Customs Organisation (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards, and other relevant agreements,” the statement read.
Under the new SOP, courier companies intending to operate under the DDP regime must obtain a licence from the NCS Headquarters License and Permit Unit.
Maiwada explained that applicants are required to submit key documents, including Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration papers, valid courier licences, compliance bonds, and a formal application to operate under DDP.
He added that all licensed operators must provide an Advance Electronic Manifest (AEM) at least 24 hours before shipment arrival, clearly specifying DDP as the Incoterm.
