Overland Transport Costs and Import Prices Dynamics: Evidence from Containerized Goods at Lagos Port Complex (1990–2024)

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@article{1719112,
      author = {Agabi Geoffrey O.},
      title = {Overland Transport Costs and Import Prices Dynamics: Evidence from Containerized Goods at Lagos Port Complex (1990–2024)},
      journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
      year = {2026},
      volume = {9},
      number = {12},
      pages = {2685-2694},
      issn = {2456-8880},
      url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1719112.pdf},
      abstract = {Rising inflation in import-dependent developing nations is frequently linked to global supply chain disruptions. However, the contribution of domestic overland transportation costs from seaport to inland market is often underemphasized. This study examines the impact of overland transport costs on final prices of imported containerized goods in Nigeria, using the Lagos Port Complex (Apapa and Tin-Can Island) as a case study. A mixed-methods explanatory design was adopted. Quantitative time-series data (1990–2024) on cargo dwell time, berth utilization, equipment breakdowns, and trucking rates were sourced from the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS), and terminal operators. Qualitative data were collected via 120 structured questionnaires administered to freight forwarders, customs officials, and transport owners. A multiple linear regression model was specified to isolate the effect of transport cost components on selling prices. Findings reveal that overland transport costs contribute between 35% and 50% to final retail prices of imported goods. Key drivers include chronic port congestion (average waiting-to-berth time exceeding 5 days in 2024), poor road infrastructure, excessive regulatory compliance costs, and fuel price volatility. The regression model was highly significant (R² = 0.901; F (11,75) =62.19, p<0.001), with fuel price, infrastructure quality, and regulatory costs emerging as the strongest predictors. We reject the null hypothesis and conclude that overland transportation costs significantly increase final prices. Recommendations include investment in rail evacuation corridors, digitalization of customs processes, and adoption of a national freight logistics master plan.},
      keywords = {Apapa Port, Containerized Imports, Final Prices, Nigeria, Overland Transport Costs, Port Congestion},
      month = {June},
      doi = {https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I12-1719112}
  }