This page is for procurement teams comparing delivery terms, not searching for a fake fixed landed price. If you are earlier in the process, start with the full China-to-Nigeria import guide and then narrow the RFQ using this comparison.
What must stay the same in both quotes
The easiest way to get confused is to compare two delivery terms while the generator itself has changed. Keep the kVA, engine plan, alternator, canopy type, ATS requirement, packing and quantity identical first.
This matters whether you are buying a 25kVA commercial unit, a 150kVA building backup set or a process application like the water factory guide.
How FOB China and CIF Lagos differ
FOB China and CIF Lagos are mainly different quotation bases, not different generator products.
| Comparison point | How to read it |
|---|---|
| Factory scope | The generator specification should be identical on both terms. |
| Shipping component | FOB China usually leaves ocean shipment outside the supplier total, while CIF Lagos usually includes shipment to the named port basis. |
| Port basis | CIF Lagos is useful when buyers want a port-level cost view before arranging later steps. |
| Forwarder control | FOB China can suit buyers who already have a preferred forwarding arrangement. |
| RFQ clarity | Whichever basis you choose, ask the supplier to list what is included and excluded in writing. |
How to ask for a clean comparison RFQ
Ask for both terms in the same message and tell the supplier not to change the machine scope between them. That makes the comparison much easier for internal approval.
If your project is tied to a city or application, add that context too. For example, link the RFQ to Port Harcourt project support or an application page like water factory backup planning.
Hello, I need a generator quote for Nigeria. Please quote both FOB China and CIF Lagos. Generator size: [ ], application: [ ], silent or open type: [ ], ATS: [yes/no], quantity: [ ].
Send this RFQ on WhatsAppFAQ
Is FOB China always cheaper than CIF Lagos?
FOB China usually excludes the ocean-freight component in the supplier quote, so it can look lower, but buyers must still add forwarding and shipping cost separately.
Does CIF Lagos mean final delivery to my site in Nigeria?
Not usually. CIF Lagos commonly refers to shipment up to the named port basis, so buyers should still confirm the local delivery and clearance scope separately.
What should be identical when comparing FOB and CIF quotes?
The generator specification, accessories, packing, quantity and document scope should be the same before comparing delivery terms.
