Freight Forwarding Contract Template for Nigeria

The Freight Forwarding Contract serves as a comprehensive legal framework for establishing and managing the relationship between freight forwarders and their clients in Nigeria. This document is essential for businesses engaged in international trade requiring professional logistics services, ensuring clear definition of responsibilities, risk allocation, and service standards. The contract must comply with Nigerian legislation, including the CRFFN Act 2007, NIMASA regulations, and customs requirements. It typically includes detailed provisions for service scope, pricing structures, documentation requirements, liability limitations, insurance obligations, and dispute resolution mechanisms. The document is particularly crucial given Nigeria's position as a major African trading hub and the complexity of international shipping operations in the region.

1. Parties: Identification of the freight forwarder and the client, including full legal names, registration numbers, and registered addresses

2. Background: Context of the agreement and brief description of the parties' business relationship

3. Definitions: Detailed definitions of key terms used throughout the agreement, including industry-specific terminology

4. Scope of Services: Detailed description of freight forwarding services to be provided, including transportation modes, routes, and handling requirements

5. Obligations of the Freight Forwarder: Comprehensive list of the freight forwarder's duties, responsibilities, and service standards

6. Client's Obligations: Client's responsibilities including providing accurate information, documentation, and cargo details

7. Rates and Payment Terms: Pricing structure, payment schedules, currency, and payment methods

8. Documentation and Compliance: Requirements for shipping documents, customs documentation, and regulatory compliance

9. Liability and Insurance: Scope of liability, limitations, insurance requirements, and indemnification provisions

10. Term and Termination: Duration of the agreement, renewal terms, and conditions for termination

11. Force Majeure: Provisions for unforeseen circumstances and their impact on contractual obligations

12. Confidentiality: Protection of confidential information and trade secrets

13. Dispute Resolution: Procedures for handling disputes, including jurisdiction and applicable law

14. General Provisions: Standard boilerplate clauses including notices, amendments, and assignment