Ghana CTN/SPN
Mandatory document for all ports in Ghana.
From November 1st, 2023, every shipment heading to Ghana, including those transiting through, must secure the compulsory Electronic Cargo Tracking Number/Smart Port Note (ECTN/SPN) from the departure ports.
Shipments lacking a valid ECTN might be subject to significant penalties.
What is Ghana ECTN/SPN Certificate?
An ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note) certificate, often required for shipments to specific African countries, is an official maritime document that establishes a detailed record of cargo being shipped.
This certificate is used to monitor, track, and validate shipments entering the ports of these countries. The ECTN certificate contains vital details about the shipper, consignee, cargo description, vessel details, and other shipment-related information.
It is typically mandatory to obtain an ECTN before cargo can be loaded onto a vessel, ensuring that the receiving country has adequate information about incoming shipments for security, customs, and statistical purposes.
Certificate Requirements
Which documents are required for Ghana ECTN/SPN?
The following documents are mandatory for the Ghana ECTN/SPN certificate.
- Bill of lading
- Commercial Invoice
- Freight Invoice
- Packing List
- Export declaration
To start the certification process, send PDF versions of the required documents to info@globalctn.com. For the issuance of ECTN certifications, hard copies are not required.
Please make sure you send the final documents that don’t require revisions. After the certificates have been validated, a penalty cost will be applied for revisions.
Disclaimer
Note that you should clarify with your importer or customs agent in Ghana whether this certificate is needed for your cargo because of recent contradictory information regarding the Ghana ECTN/SPN certificate. Remember that once the ECTN certificate procedure is started, there are no refunds for costs. Any problems that develop once the certificate has passed the pre-validation step are not our responsibility.
General FAQs
A Ghana ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note) or SPN (Special Phytosanitary Note) is a mandatory document required for all shipments entering Ghana. It ensures that detailed information about the cargo is submitted to the customs authorities before the shipment arrives, facilitating efficient and smooth customs clearance.
The Ghana ECTN/SPN is essential for compliance with local regulations. It helps customs authorities monitor and control cargo movements, enhancing security, preventing smuggling, and ensuring that all trade practices are legal. Without an ECTN/SPN, your shipment could face delays, fines, or rejection at the port.
You can obtain a Ghana ECTN/SPN through authorized service providers like GlobalCTN. The process involves submitting necessary shipment details and documentation, which will be verified and processed to issue the ECTN/SPN.
To apply for a Ghana ECTN/SPN, you need to provide detailed information, including the shipper and consignee details, cargo description, bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, and transport details. Accurate and complete information is critical to avoid delays in processing.
The processing time for a Ghana ECTN/SPN typically ranges from 24 to 48 hours, provided all the submitted information is accurate and complete. Any discrepancies or missing documents can cause delays.
Yes, it is possible to amend a Ghana ECTN/SPN if necessary. To make changes, you need to contact your service provider and provide the updated information. Keep in mind that amendments may incur additional processing time and fees.
If your shipment arrives in Ghana without a valid ECTN/SPN, it may face significant consequences, including fines, penalties, and substantial delays in customs clearance. In some cases, the shipment may even be denied entry into the country.
Yes, the Ghana ECTN/SPN is mandatory for all types of cargo entering Ghana, regardless of the mode of transport or the nature of the goods. This requirement ensures uniformity and efficiency in monitoring all cargo movements into the country.