Rail connectivity

APM Terminals Apapa is the only container terminal in Nigeria with a rail link to other parts of the nation.

Containers can be speedily moved out of the port and received into the port – leading to faster turn-around times for cargo. Our rail facilities mean that cargo can be loaded directly onto a train at our terminal for transfer to the hinterland.

We offer rail services using 2 rail systems – standard gauge and narrow gauge (see below) – depending on the needs of our customer and the final destination.

Standard gauge

Experience a faster, more reliable and cost-effective way to move your 20ft or 40ft containers between Lagos and Ibadan. Our standard gauge rail service offers:

Capacity:
Transport up to 140 x 20ft or 70 x 40ft containers per trip
Frequency:
Fixed schedule: three times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
Ideal for business:
Ideal for any business looking for a streamlined, efficient, and cost-effective shipping solution – especially for customers in the north

Key benefits

Faster transit times
Significantly reduces delays compared to road transport.
Improved supply chain efficiency
Streamlines container transportation and optimises logistics.
Enhance and facilitate trade
Makes it easier to get your goods where they need to be.
Save money
Reduce shipping costs.
Using rail freight slashes trucking expenses, fuel surcharges, and other fees – boosting your bottom line.
Scale up your business
Transport larger volumes of goods.
Our high-capacity rail service can handle significant container shipments, perfectly meeting your growing trade needs.
Consistent & reliable schedules
Benefit from fixed departure times.
We offer thrice-weekly schedules to keep your cargo moving efficiently.
Efficient hubs for quick turnarounds
Experience smooth loading and unloading at our dedicated cargo terminals in Lagos and Ibadan.
Real-time tracking
Stay informed in real time.
Monitor your shipments every step of the way.
Our digital tracking system provides instant updates on the locations of all your containers.
Simplify your shipping process
Enjoy seamless coordination.
We handle easy integration with port authorities and customs for hassle-free operations.
Secure your goods
Protect your valuable cargo.
Rail transport minimizes the risk of theft, vandalism, and damage – offering enhanced security compared to road transport.

How it works

Booking is easy. Here is how it works and what to expect.

Export service
Import service

Export service

The container/cargo is received by the ICD, you obtain approvals from relevant authorities, and a valid export booking from the shipping line.

Cargoes are stuffed into containers, weighed, and sealed at the ICD by our partners.

APM Terminals Apapa will organise the relevant schedule with NRC for rail wagons, and once the relevant clearance is completed, the customer is billed for related service.

On completion of billing and booking – and once relevant clearance is obtained – the cargo is released for loading and train transport.

Containers are discharged at APM Terminals Apapa's yard for onward loading on nominated vessel.

Import service

When cargo arrives from the main vessel, it is discharged and stacked at the dedicated APM Terminals rail yard.

APM Terminals Apapa organises relevant schedule with Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC). After Customs clearance, you submit the Terminal Delivery Order (TDO) 24 hours before the scheduled date.

On completion of billing – or once containers are linked to an E-wallet account – cargo is released for loading and transport.

Units are discharged at Moniya. where the customer can take delivery. You can also choose to use our last-mile warehouse delivery solution.

Empty/export containers can be returned to Moniya, Ibadan ICDs for extra convenience – saving time and cost.

Narrow gauge

Capability to load 19 x 40ft or 38 x 20ft boxes.

Most suitable for customers with cargoes bound for Ota, Agege, Ebute Metta or Lagos.

Request service

Request narrow-gauge rail services using our Inland Services portal.

Inland Services portal