The CTN Document is an electronic cargo tracking note required when shipping goods to more than 25+ African Countries. The shipper or freight forwarder must obtain the ECTN prior to vessel arrival or your importer will face fines and penalties issued via the customs authorities until a valid CTN Certificate is issued.
What is a CTN Document
Depending on the destination port of your shipment a CTN Document can also be called:
- BESC, ECTN Certificate, BSC, BIETC, SPN, CNCA, ENS, FERI
Each CTN contains detailed information gathered from a few necessary documents:
- Bill of Lading
- Commercial Invoice
- Freight Invoice
- Export Declaration or Customs Declaration
- Packing List (optional)
These documents are required to issue the ECTN and have smooth customs clearance. Once all shipping documents are required, you will follow AfricaCTNs quick and efficient application process:
- Submit: Send all required documents to AfricaCTN via email, WhatsApp or online
- Draft & Invoice: Receive draft ECTN and invoice
- Approve: Check and confirm all shipment details on the draft ECTN
- Pay: Make payment on the invoice so validation can begin
- Final Validation: Receive the final validated CTN & CTN Number ready for customs clearance
Why Shippers Work With AfricaCTN
- Authorized Agent: AfricaCTN is authorized by the port authorities of each country to issue the CTN. Meaning we work directly with the customs authorities ensuring fast, accurate ECTN validation.
- Transparent Pricing: Since AfricaCTN is an official agent, we are normally cheaper than local providers in the destination port.
- Fast Processing Times: AfricaCTN is an authorized agent, working directly with customs authorities, giving you the fastest turnaround time, even with last minute changes.
- Complete Visibility: AfricaCTN supports you with direct communication and fast response during ECTN validation so you always have full control of your shipment.
- Global Support: AfricaCTN is recognized around the world, providing great service across all 7 continents
Working with AfricaCTN provides you with the best rates, no delays, no risk of rejections in port, quick resolution and the most efficient processing times in the world.
Impact: No more ECTN related delays on your shipments to Africa
Summary
The CTN document is an important document for the supply chain and customs clearance when shipping to many African countries. Shippers process all ECTNs with AfricaCTN to ensure there are no delays or issues at the destination port.
For a full guide on ECTN issuance and validation, check out our ECTN Guide here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What countries require a CTN?
Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Niger, Republic of Congo, Republic of Guinea, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Togo, Yemen
What is a CTN or Waiver?
The CTN Document is an electronic cargo tracking note required when shipping goods to more than 25+ African Countries.
How much does an ECTN certificate cost?
The cost of each ECTN will depend on the destination country, please check with AfricaCTN to get a quote for your shipment.
How do I obtain a CTN document for shipping?
Submit the required documents to AfricaCTN, receive a draft CTN and invoice, approve the draft, pay the invoice, receive the final validated ECTN ready for customs clearance.
How do I apply for a CTN document?
Gather the BL, commercial invoice, freight invoice and email them to AfricaCTN, we will handle the rest.
