Ghana SPN Required for All Shipments Entering Ghana

Beginning on February 1, 2026 Ghana will require the SPN – Smart Port Note – for all shipments entering Ghana including cargo in transit to neighboring African countries. AfricaCTN is an authorized agent for the issuance of Ghana SPN.

Ghana SPN Requirements

Required Documents

• Bill of Lading
• Commercial Invoice
• Freight Invoice
• Export Declaration or Customs Declaration

Procedure

To obtain a Ghana SPN Certificate with AfricaCTN you will:

1. Submit: Send all the required documents to AfricaCTN via email or online
2. Draft & Invoice: Receive the draft SPN and invoice
3. Approve: Check and confirm all details on the draft
4. Pay: Make payment on the invoice so validation can begin
5. Validation: Receive the final validated SPN ready for customs clearance

Key Points for Ghana SPN

• Effective Date: Mandatory beginning on February 1, 2026
• Mandatory: Any cargo without a valid SPN will not be cleared by Ghanaian Customs Authorities
• Port of Loading: The SPN must be obtained by the shipper or freight forwarder at the port of loading
• SPN Number: The SPN number must be noted on the bill of lading and cargo manifest for shipping lines
• Responsibility: It is the responsibility of the shipper or freight forwarder to obtain the ECTN / SPN

Why Shippers Choose AfricaCTN to Process the Ghana SPN

• Reliable Global Support: You get direct access to an experienced team that responds quickly, ensuring smooth clearance in Accra
• Transparent Timelines: Shippers know exactly what happens next, when validation will be complete and what the port authorities require
• Fast Drafts & Clear Communication: AfricaCTN issues most draft certificates in just a few hours, with quick responses from a real person so there is no guesswork
• 99% Accuracy: AfricaCTN has 99% accuracy across all ECTNs issued for all destination countries
• Hassle-Free: AfricaCTN makes the entire ECTN application process fast and hassle-free making your job easier

Summary

Beginning on February 1, 2026 all shipments entering Ghana will require the Ghana SPN as mandated by the Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA). AfricaCTN is an authorized agent for Ghana SPN Issuance, to get your SPN you will need the BL, commercial invoice, freight invoice and export declaration. Without a valid SPN your shipment will face penalties and fines against the shipping line.

To learn more about the Ghana SPN or submit your request, check out our full guide here.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)