If you’ve ever searched “does Alibaba ship to Nigeria?” The simple answer is yes, Alibaba suppliers do ship to Nigeria. In fact, many sellers offer multiple shipping options depending on your budget and timeline. Thousands of Nigerians want to order directly from international suppliers but aren’t sure if delivery is possible or how the payment process works. However, shipping isn’t just about clicking “Buy Now.” There are important things to consider. Let's get into the details!
What Nigerians Should Know Before Ordering from Alibaba or AliExpress?
Ordering from Alibaba or AliExpress can be profitable and convenient, especially if you’re importing goods for business or buying products at lower prices. But before you place your order, there are a few important things every Nigerian buyer should understand.
1. Minimum Order Quantities Can Vary
On Alibaba, many suppliers operate on a wholesale model. This means they may require a minimum order quantity (MOQ). On the other hand, AliExpress is more retail-focused, so you can usually buy single items without meeting bulk requirements. If you’re just starting out, always confirm the MOQ before negotiating price.
2. Shipping Costs Can Be Higher Than Expected
Many Nigerians are surprised to see that shipping sometimes costs more than the product itself. Courier services like DHL or FedEx are fast but expensive.Always calculate product cost, shipping cost, customs duties, and clearing fees. This helps you know your true landing cost before ordering.
3. Customs Duties and Import Fees Apply
Nigeria charges import duties and VAT on many goods. If your shipment comes through major entry points like Apapa Port, you may also pay handling charges. To avoid stress, many experienced buyers choose DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shipping. With DDP, the supplier handles customs clearance and pays duties upfront, reducing surprises when your goods arrive.
4. Always Use Trade Assurance
If you’re ordering through Alibaba, make sure you use Trade Assurance. This protects your payment and ensures the supplier meets agreed terms before funds are released. Never agree to move payments outside the platform to “save fees.” That’s one of the most common mistakes new buyers make.
5. Payment Can Be the Biggest Challenge
Even after choosing the right supplier and shipping method, many Nigerians face a frustrating issue which is their Naira card gets declined at checkout. Both Alibaba and AliExpress process payments in foreign currency. If your card has international spending restrictions, the transaction may fail. And this is where choosing the right payment method becomes critical.
Why Do Nigerian Naira Cards Often Get Declined on International Websites?
If you’ve tried paying on an international website like Alibaba or AliExpress before, you may have seen the frustrating message: “Transaction Declined.” This happens more often than people expect, and it’s usually not because of insufficient funds. Here’s why:
1. Foreign Exchange Restrictions
Many Nigerian banks place limits on international spending due to foreign exchange (FX) controls. Since Alibaba and AliExpress charge in USD, your Naira card must convert currency during the transaction. If your bank has restricted international payments, the transaction will fail automatically.
2. International Spending Limits
Even if your card supports international transactions, there may be a very low monthly spending cap. For example, some Naira cards allow only a small amount for foreign payments. If your order exceeds that limit, it gets declined.
3. USD Billing Mismatch
Both Alibaba and AliExpress process payments in dollars. A Naira-denominated card must go through currency conversion before approval. That currency mismatch increases the chance of payment blocks, delays, failed verification and repeated declines. And when you’re trying to secure inventory or close a supplier deal, failed payments can cost you time or even the order itself.
Different Ways to Pay on Alibaba & AliExpress in Nigeria that Actually Work
If your Naira card keeps getting declined, there are reliable alternatives that actually work. Here are the three most practical payment options you can use.
1. Virtual Dollar Cards
Virtual Dollar Cards are currently one of the easiest and most reliable ways to pay on international websites from Nigeria. These cards are funded in USD and work like regular Visa or Mastercard cards for global transactions.
Apps like Cardsoon provide the best virtual dollar card in Nigeria that help users bypass local Naira card restrictions. Since Alibaba and AliExpress charge in dollars, using a USD card removes the common issues related to FX limits and declined payments. This option is ideal for both small purchases on AliExpress and larger supplier payments on Alibaba because transactions process smoothly and instantly.
2. Nigerian Dollar Debit or Credit Cards
Some Nigerian banks issue USD debit or credit cards linked to domiciliary accounts. If the card is enabled for international transactions and funded in dollars, it can be used successfully on both platforms.
However, this option is not accessible to everyone. You must maintain a dollar account, and banks may apply additional charges or set transaction limits. It works well for established importers or business owners who already operate with foreign currency accounts.
3. Telegraphic Transfer (T/T or Wire Transfer)
Telegraphic Transfer, also known as T/T or wire transfer, is commonly used for large wholesale orders on Alibaba. This method involves sending money directly from your bank to the supplier’s bank account.
While it is suitable for bulk imports and high-value transactions, it is not practical for small purchases. Transfers usually take two to five business days to process, and bank fees can be relatively high. It also requires careful verification of supplier details before payment.
How to Get a Virtual Dollar Card in Nigeria Easily for Alibaba & AliExpress Payments?
If you’re ready to start shopping on Alibaba or AliExpress without worrying about declined payments, getting a Virtual Dollar Card (VDC) is the fastest solution. In Nigeria, there are a few ways to get one, but not all are convenient or affordable.
One of the easiest and most trusted options is Cardsoon. While Cardsoon is widely known as the best gift card trading app with high rates, it also provides one of the cheapest Virtual Dollar Cards in Nigeria. This makes it perfect for both small online purchases and larger import orders.
Steps to Get Your Virtual Dollar Card on Cardsoon
Sign up on Cardsoon
Download the app or register on the website and create your account using your email and phone number.
Fund your account in Naira
Add funds by trading gift cards for cash within the app.
Create your Virtual Dollar Card
Once your account is funded, you can generate a USD-denominated card instantly. This card works like a regular international Visa or Mastercard.
Use your VDC for international payments
Add your Cardsoon Virtual Dollar Card to Alibaba, AliExpress, or any other international website that accepts USD payments, and complete your purchase safely.
By using a Virtual Dollar Card from Cardsoon, you eliminate the frustration of declined payments, avoid FX restrictions, and can shop on global platforms with ease. It’s fast, affordable, and designed specifically for Nigerian buyers who want to pay online internationally.
FAQs
1. How do I pay for goods on Alibaba?
You can pay on Alibaba using international debit or credit cards, bank transfers (T/T), or digital wallets. For Nigerians, the easiest and most reliable option is a Virtual Dollar Card, which works smoothly for USD transactions.
2. What is the safest way to pay on Alibaba?
The safest way is to use Trade Assurance along with a secure payment method like a Virtual Dollar Card. Trade Assurance protects your payment until you confirm receipt of goods, reducing the risk of fraud.
3. Can I pay with Naira on AliExpress?
Yes, you can but the Naira card payments often get declined. The best approach is to use a Virtual Dollar Card funded in USD to avoid currency conversion issues.
4. How do I pay on AliExpress from Nigeria?
You can pay using international cards or digital wallets. The most reliable method for Nigerians is a Virtual Dollar Card, which bypasses FX restrictions and ensures your payment goes through without being blocked.
