Everything you need to know about CTN, ECTN, BSC, BESC certificates. Explore all shipping requirements and AfricaCTN’s services.
An Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN) is a mandatory document required when importing goods into more than 24 African countries. It is also known as BESC, BSC, CTN, BIETC or ACD depending on the destination.
ECTN stands for Electronic Cargo Tracking Note
The cargo tracking note number is the unique identifying number assigned to your shipment when you request the CTN.
CTN means Cargo Tracking Note, it is a required document when shipping to 24+ countries in Africa.
CTN stands for Cargo Tracking Note
A CTN Certificate is a required document when shipping to 24+ countries in Africa. You can get it online through AfricaCTN
AfricaCTN will issue your draft CTN and invoice within 2-4 hours of receiving your documents.
Once you verify the details of the draft CTN and make payment of the invoice, we will submit the draft CTN to the relevant port authorities to issue the final validated CTN. This process will take between 24-48 hours depending on the country.
You will need the Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Freight Invoice.
Some countries require additional documents. It is important to check the requirements for your destination country here.
Yes, you can apply for the CTN before your cargo ships.
Corrections after validation depend on the destination country. It is important to verify all details of the draft CTN prior to final validation.
Yes, each shipment will require its own ECTN.
You will send the required documents to an authorized agent like AfricaCTN. We will then issue your draft CTN and invoice.
Each country has its own Tariffs and fees, you can request a quote for your destination country here.
We accept Wire Transfer, PayCargo, Zelle, and Credit Card payments.
Typically, the shipper or freight forwarder is responsible for obtaining the ECTN.
The ECTN is required to be validated prior to the destination countries deadline. You can check the deadline for your destination country here.
AfricaCTN has lots of resources to educate about the CTN. Find out more here.
They all serve the same purpose, BESC is the French translation of ECTN. Depending on the destination country, they each have their own name for this, but it is all referring to the same requirement.
Cargo arriving without a valid ECTN will cause delays and heavy penalties. It is important to check with AfricaCTN to learn about the deadlines for your destination country.
All ocean freight shipments require the ECTN. DRC and Madagascar require the CTN for air shipments.
Yes, many people refer to the ECTN as a waiver certificate. They are both typically referring to the same requrement.
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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