Guides, 8 min read

Form M in plain words: a guide for first-time importers

Form M is the first document in every import into Nigeria, and the one most often opened too late.

By the Cargoflow desk. Example article for this demo.

What Form M is

Form M is an electronic declaration that you intend to import goods. It is opened through an authorised bank, and it tells the bank, customs and the inspection agents what you are buying, from whom, and for how much. Without it, you cannot get foreign exchange through official channels, and customs will not process your cargo smoothly.

When to open it

Open it before your supplier ships, ideally as soon as you have a proforma invoice. Approval usually takes a few working days. If goods ship before approval, you risk delays and penalties at the port.

Get the proforma invoice right and the rest of the file follows.

What your bank needs

A proforma invoice from your supplier, your company details or identity number, the tariff code of the goods and, for some goods, a product certificate or regulatory permit. We prepare the application with you and follow it through the bank.

Mistakes that cost weeks

Vague descriptions. "General merchandise" will be queried. Describe each product clearly.

Prices that change. If the final invoice differs a lot from the proforma, Form M may need amending.

The wrong terms. If you buy FOB, the freight is separate. Make sure the proforma says so.

After approval

Share the Form M number with your supplier so it appears on the shipping documents. When the goods ship, we use the final documents to file the PAAR, and the rest of the clearing begins.

Form M at a glance

Form M summary
Item	Detail
Opened by	Your bank, with our help
When	Before the goods ship
You provide	Proforma invoice, company or ID details
Approval	A few working days, example
Valid for	A set period, can be extended

Our Form M record

98%

Approved without amendment this year, example figure

Can I open Form M myself?

Yes, with your bank. Many importers ask us to prepare it so it matches the later customs entry.

Is Form M needed for air cargo?

Yes, for commercial imports by air as well as sea.

What if my supplier changes the price?

Tell us at once. Small changes are fine; large ones may need an amendment.