What is a ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note)? An ECTN is a mandatory certificate required when shipping goods to over 24 African countries. It contains details about the shipment helping to ensure compliance with local regulations and facilitate smooth customs clearance in port. It also provides a unique tracking number for customs and port authorities.
The ECTN helps port authorities verify the cargo information before your shipment arrives. In short, it is a vital part of transparent and lawful trade to many African countries.
Why is the ECTN Mandatory
African governments use the CTN system to:
- Track and monitor cargo movement
- Ensure accurate customs declaration and tax collection
- Improve port efficiency and cargo clearance
- Strengthen trade security and reduce smuggling or false invoicing
How to Obtain an ECTN
At AfricaCTN, we manage the ECTN filing process from start to finish. AfricaCTN is the authorized agent for many of the countries, our team ensures your shipment meets every destination requirement before departure.
Here is the process:
- Collect Required Documents
- Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Freight Invoice and Others
- Submit to AfricaCTN
- Send your documents via through our secure CTN Dashboard or directly via email
- Draft & Invoice
- Our team will check your documents and provide a draft copy of the ECTN and an invoice
- Payment
- Pay the applicable fees as shown on your invoice
- Draft Review
- Verify and confirm the details on the draft CTN. If there are any discrepancies request the changes via email
- Final Validation
- Once approved, we will submit the CTN to the authorities. Typically in 24-48 hours the final validated certificate will be released. We will instantly send it straight to your inbox.
Countries that Require an ECTN
AfricaCTN provides official CTNs for 24+ countries including:
Each country has its own document requirements and procedures. Our CTN Dashboard automatically ensures your shipment has full CTN compliance.
What Happens Without a ECTN
If your shipment passes the validation deadline without a validated ECTN, it can result in:
- Delays at port
- Heavy penalties and fines for non-compliance
- Customs hold while the CTN is being processed
These penalties can cause significant delays, filing your CTN with AfricaCTN in advance prevents these risks.
Why Choose AfricaCTN
- Authorized Government Agent for the countries that require agents
- Fast Turnaround – You will receive your draft CTN and invoice the same day you request it every time
- CTN Dashboard Access – Manage and track all your ECTNs in one place
- Global Coverage – AfricaCTN serves freight forwarders, logistics firms and individual shippers worldwide
AfricaCTN makes filing your ECTN simple, reliable and fully compliant every time.