ECTN Certificate – Services

ECTN Certificates in African Trade

Import your goods seamlessly to certain countries in Africa.

What is ECTN Certificate?

An ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note) Certificate is a mandatory document required for importing goods into certain African countries. It includes key details about the shipment, such as the cargo’s origin, destination, shipper, and consignee information. The ECTN Certificate helps customs authorities track shipments and ensures that all imports are properly documented for customs clearance.

This certificate allows African customs to plan cargo arrivals in advance, leading to better logistics and accurate import duty collection. It must be applied for and paid in advance, and then submitted to customs during the clearance process.

Depending on the country, the ECTN Certificate may also be referred to as CTN, BESC, FERI, CNCA, BIETC, CEE, ACD, URN or ENS, but they all serve the same purpose—acting as a cargo tracking note or waiver certificate for shipments.

What are the challenges in acquiring ECTN Certificate?

The process of obtaining an ECTN Certificate can be complicated and inefficient because it often happens separately from the rest of the shipping process. This disconnection can lead to delays, fines, and unexpected transport changes that may affect your shipment.

However, GlobalCTN is here to take care of the entire process for you! Our experienced team ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience, handling all the paperwork, requirements, and compliance so you can focus on your business with confidence.

What are the essential documents for obtaining an ECTN Certificate?

To apply for an ECTN Certificate, you typically need three main documents. If your ocean carrier is handling the shipping, some of these documents may already be provided. The required documents are:

• Ocean Bill of Lading – A document issued by the carrier that confirms receipt of cargo for shipment.
• Freight Invoice – An invoice showing the shipping cost (if applicable).
• Commercial Invoice – A document containing key details about the goods being shipped, including their total value.

Other possible documents:

• Packing List – Lists shipment details such as weight, contents, and dimensions.
• Export Customs Document – Confirms that the goods have cleared customs for export.
• Additional documents – Depending on the country, extra paperwork such as an import license or certificate of origin may be required.

How can you apply for an ECTN Certificate?

At GlobalCTN, we simplify the process of obtaining an ECTN Certificate. Just fill the CTN Form on our website, send us the required documents in PDF format via email, and our experienced team will handle everything for you.

If you have questions about the process, required documents, or fees, feel free to contact us. Our team is available to assist you at any time.

Which countries require an ECTN Certificate?

The ECTN Certificate and its equivalents is required for importing goods into the following African countries:

West Africa

• Benin – BESC (Bordereau Electronique de Suivi de Cargaison)
• Burkina Faso – ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note)
• Guinea – ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note)
• Guinea-Bissau – CTN (Cargo Tracking Note)
• Ivory Coast (Côte d’Ivoire) – BSC (Bordereau de Suivi de Cargaison)
• Liberia – CTN (Cargo Tracking Note)
• Mali – BSC (Bordereau de Suivi de Cargaison)
• Niger – BSC (Bordereau de Suivi de Cargaison)
• Senegal – BSC (Bordereau de Suivi de Cargaison)
• Sierra Leone – ENS (Entry Summary Declaration)
• Togo – ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note)

Central Africa

• Angola – CNCA (Conselho Nacional de Carregadores de Angola)
• Cameroon – BESC (Bordereau Electronique de Suivi de Cargaison)
• Central African Republic – ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note)
• Chad – ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note)
• Democratic Republic of Congo – FERI (Fiche Électronique de Renseignement à l’Importation)
• Republic of Congo (Brazzaville) – ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note)
• Equatorial Guinea – ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note)
• Gabon – BIETC (Bordereau d’Identification Électronique de Traçabilité des Cargaisons)

East & North Africa

• Burundi – ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note)
• Djibouti – ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note)
• Egypt – ACID (Advanced Cargo Information Declaration)
• Madagascar – BSC (Bordereau de Suivi de Cargaison)
• South Sudan – ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note)

Horn of Africa

• Somalia – CTN (Cargo Tracking Note)

Middle East

• Yemen – ACD (Advanced Cargo Declaration)

Failure to obtain the required ECTN Certificate can result in fines, shipment delays, or cargo rejection at customs.

For more details or assistance, contact our team—we’re here to help!