A Cargo Tracking Note (CTN) is a mandatory document required when importing goods into more than 24 African countries. It is also known as ECTN, BESC, BSC, BIETC or ACD depending on the destination.
Each country has its own unique cargo tracking note, this is an example of an ECTN for Republic of Congo.
The cargo tracking note is a security and customs control measure required by African governments
Port security relies heavily on the presence of cargo tracking notes. So the port authorities are aware of what cargo is arriving and when.
Cargo tracking notes are required for customs clearance in port. If you do not have it prior to the deadline it could cause delays.
The cargo tracking note is important when the port authorities are verifying that goods being imported meet all regulations.
Our streamlined process makes getting your CTN certificate fast and hassle-free
Submit your bill of lading, commercial invoice and freight invoice via email or our secure CTN Dashboard.
Our certified team verifies your documents for compliance, and provides you with a draft CTN and invoice in just 2 hours.
Once the draft CTN is approved, we will submit it to the authorities for final validation. Your official CTN will be delivered via email immediately once it is released.
CTN certificates must be obtained from an authorized agent like AfricaCTN
Work with the #1 global provider of Cargo Tracking Notes who can issue validated CTNs quickly and reliably.
Here is everything you need to submit your CTN fully online right now
Have these shipping documents ready before you start your application:
You can submit your documents via email or our secure portal
Once you submit your documents to AfricaCTN your draft ECTN and invoice will be available in 2-4 hours.
A Cargo Tracking Note (CTN) is a mandatory document required when importing goods into more than 24 African countries. It is also known as ECTN, BESC, BSC, BIETC or ACD depending on the destination.
CTNs are used by more than 24 African countries to ensure port security, customs clearance and trade compliance.
Most CTNs include information from the bill of lading such as shipper name and address, consignee name and address, loading and discharge port, cargo details, container numbers, ETA and ETD as well as information about the contents of the container and the goods value.
Typically, the shipper or freight forwarder is responsible for getting the CTN.
Many countries require the CTN be validated prior to vessel arrival, but some require it be validated as early as vessel departure. It is important to check with AfricaCTN to confirm the deadline before your shipment.
Shipments without a valid CTN may face delays and heavy penalties in port. It is important to meet all CTN regulations before your shipment arrives.
Yes, every bill of lading will require its own individual CTN.
All countries require the bill of lading, commercial invoice and freight invoice. Some countries may require additional documentation. It is important to check with AfricaCTN to make sure you have all the required documents.
The normal process of issuing a CTN is that the shipper will gather all the required documents, upload them to AfricaCTNs secure portal or send them via email. AfricaCTN will issue the draft and invoice. The shipper will check and confirm all the details then it will be submitted to the port authorities for final validation.
Yes, ECTN and CTN are the same thing. Many countries will use different terms based on the language and how long the requirement has been in place. But rest assured, all the terms are all referring to a cargo tracking note.
Some countries will allow changes to the validated CTN while others do not. It is important to check with AfricaCTN on the regulations for your destination country.
You should apply at least 5 business days prior to the deadline. You can check the deadline for your destination country here.
Submit your documents and we'll start your CTN right now
Required Documents: Bill of Lading (BL), Commercial Invoice, Freight Invoice
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A quick, easy-to-read guide explaining what a CTN is, how it works and why it’s essential for exports to Africa.
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