The meaning of CTN in shipping is Cargo Tracking Note or ECTN. It is a mandatory waiver certificate required when shipping goods to more than 25+ African countries. Some common alternative names for CTN are below:
- CTN – Cargo Tracking Note
- ECTN – Electronic Cargo Tracking Note
- BSC – bordereau de suivi de cargaison
- BESC – bordereau électronique de suivi de cargaison
- BIETC – Bordereau d’Identification Électronique de Traçabilité des Cargaisons
- ACD – Advance Cargo Declaration
- CNCA – Conselho Nacional de Carregadores de Angola
- ARCCLA – Agência Reguladora de Certificação de Cargas e Logística de Angola
- FERI – Fiche Électronique de Renseignements à l’Importation
Despite the different names depending on the destination country, all of these acronyms refer to the same thing… a Cargo Tracking Note. A CTN contains detailed shipment details contained on the required documents such as the bill of lading, commercial invoice, freight invoice and others.
The term CTN often arises in global trade and logistics, when shipping goods to African countries. The CTN is a big piece of the supply chain and without it you risk facing fines and delays set by the port authorities. It is important for both importers and shippers to know when it is required, and how to get it.
What Documents are Required for a CTN?
The following documents are required for all countries when obtaining the cargo tracking note:
- Bill of Lading
- Commercial Invoice
- Freight Invoice
Some countries will require additional shipping documents like the export declaration, packing list, import license and more. It is important to check with AfricaCTN about the requirements for your shipment.
What Countries Require the CTN
The following countries require the CTN: Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Guinea Bissau, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Niger, Republic of Congo, Republic of Guinea, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Togo, Yemen
Why CTNs Are Important
Understanding CTN meaning is crucial for exporters, consignee’s and freight forwarders. Missing or invalid CTNs can result in:
- Heavy fines
- Delays at customs
- Cargo being refused entry at the port
- Additional administrative hassle for both the shipper and forwarder
By preparing the CTN document in advance, businesses ensure smooth clearance, avoid penalties, and maintain compliance with destination customs authorities.
Final Thoughts on CTN Meaning in Shipping
In summary, understanding the meaning of CTN in shipping along with the required documents, timelines and deadlines is important to ensure your cargo gets through customs clearance in the destination port without issues. AfricaCTN can help you get your CTN on time and prevent delays, you can apply for your cargo tracking note here.
To find the answers to some frequently asked questions check out our FAQ Page here.
