What is CTN? (Cargo Tracking Note)

The CTN Certificate, or Cargo Tracking Note, is a mandatory shipping document required by several African countries. It provides detailed information about cargo being shipped, and it must be obtained before goods can enter the destination port. Each CTN is issued with a unique reference number used by port and customs authorities to track, inspect, and verify incoming cargo.

The CTN plays a vital role in enhancing transparency and control over imports. It helps authorities accurately assess the nature, quantity, and value of goods arriving in their countries. This reduces risks of smuggling, under-declaration of goods, and tax evasion. It ensures all incoming cargo is properly documented and that the right import duties are paid.

How to Get a CTN Certificate

7 Easy Steps to Get the CTN:

1. Gather Documents: Prepare required documents like the commercial invoice, bill of lading, and freight invoice.
2. Choose Agent: Work with an authorized CTN issuing agent.
3. Submit Documents: Send all required documents to the agent.
4. Verification: Agent reviews and verifies shipment details.
5. Pay Fees: Settle the applicable CTN fees.
6. Receive Certificate: Get your CTN with its official number.
7. Attach to Shipment: Include the CTN with your shipping documents for customs clearance.

Note: Requirements may differ depending on the destination country. Always check for country-specific rules.

What Does the CTN Certificate Look Like?

The appearance of a CTN certificate varies by country. Elements such as format, language, and layout differ depending on the port authority. For instance, a CTN also known as BSC from Sierra Leone won’t look the same as one from Liberia CTN or Angola CNCA. Despite the visual differences, every CTN contains critical shipment information and a tracking number unique to the cargo.

Djibouti ECTN Sample:

Consequences of Not Having a CTN Certificate

Failing to provide a valid CTN certificate can result in severe delays and financial penalties:

• Shipment Refusal: Ports may deny entry to containers that lack a CTN.
• Fines & Fees: Authorities can impose heavy fines for non-compliance.
• Storage Costs: Delays at the port lead to storage charges that increase daily.
• Re-export or Confiscation: Cargo could be returned to the origin country or seized by customs.

Not securing a CTN can severely disrupt your supply chain, hurt your business reputation, and result in major financial losses.

Countries Requiring CTN Certificates

Below is a list of countries where a Cargo Tracking Note (CTN) is mandatory. Requirements vary by country and may be listed under other names like BESC, BIETC, or ECTN certificates.

• Angola – ARCCLA/CNCA
• Benin – BESC
• Burkina Faso – URN/ECTN
• Burundi – CTN
• Cameroon – BESC
• Central African Republic – ECTN
• Chad – ECTN
• Republic of Congo – CTN/ECTN
• Democratic Republic of Congo – FERI
• Djibouti – CTN
• Egypt – ACID
• Equatorial Guinea – ECTN
• Gabon – BIETC
• Gambia – CTN
• Ghana – CTN/ECTN
• Guinea Bissau – CEE
• Guinea Conakry – CTN
• Ivory Coast – BSC
• Liberia – CTN
• Libya – CTN
• Madagascar – BSC
• Mali – BSC
• Niger – BSC
• Nigeria – ICTN
• Senegal – BSC
• Sierra Leone – CTN
• Somalia – CTN
• South Sudan – ECTN
• Togo – ECTN
• Yemen – ACD

For each destination, it’s important to use the correct type of certificate and ensure timely submission.

Who Issues the CTN Certificate?

CTN certificates are issued by authorized agencies approved by the governments of the receiving countries. These certified providers are responsible for reviewing, validating, and generating the official CTN numbers needed for customs processing.

Their role includes:

• Authorization: Only approved agents can issue valid CTNs.
• Compliance: They ensure your cargo complies with local regulations.
• Support: They assist you in navigating document requirements and country-specific regulations.
• Accuracy: Agents help prevent costly mistakes by verifying all submitted information.

Get Your CTN Certificate with Us

At GlobalCTN, we are certified and experienced in issuing CTN certificates for all African countries that require them. We handle every step—from document checks to fast issuance—ensuring a hassle-free process for you.

Whether you’re shipping to Liberia, Cameroon, Guinea, or any other CTN-required African country, we’ve got you covered.

• Fast Issuance
• 24/7 Support
• Full Compliance
• Competitive Rates

Get your CTN certificate now — and avoid shipment delays.