What to Do If Shipping Parties Change During an ECTN Application

In December 2025, a customer applied for an ECTN for a shipment to Mali, but after receiving the draft certificate the importer listed on the bill of lading changed. This created uncertainty about whether the ECTN would still be valid.

Solution: The shipper promptly contacted AfricaCTN with the revised BL, since the draft was not yet validated, AfricaCTN updated it with the correct importer details preventing any issues at the destination port.

Introduction

AfricaCTN issued the draft, the shipper notified us that the importer details had changed from the original bill of lading, all action was paused to prevent any discrepancies between documents. Once the shipper provided the updated bill of lading AfricaCTN reissued a draft certificate on the same day. After that, all details were correct and the certificate was validated. Clearing through customs with no issues.

This article will cover the details on document accuracy and steps to take if your shipment details change during the ECTN application process.

Why Document Accuracy Matters

The ECTN is used for customs clearance in 25+ African countries. If the details presented on the validated certificate do not match what is on your shipping documents your shipment will face:

• Fines or penalties
• Delays at destination
• Cargo being held

When Changes Can Still be Made

Prior to Validation:

• Any change can be made with the supporting documentation

After Validation:

• Changes are limited
• Some countries do not allow corrections after validation
  • In this case, any discrepancies must be handled at the destination port

Step-by-Step: What to do If Documents Change

1. Identify the change (e.g., importer, cargo details, value of goods)
2. Notify AfricaCTN of the discrepancy
3. Request the updated document from the respective party involved
4. Submit the correct documents to AfricaCTN
5. Check and confirm the updated draft once available

Conclusion

In the case that your shipments details have changed, contact AfricaCTN immediately to ensure there is no further action taken on your ECTN. Once you have obtained the revised shipping documents you can send it to AfricaCTN so your draft ECTN can be updated.

By following these steps you can prevent costly delays and penalties at the destination port. If you have any questions regarding your ECTN applications, please contact us directly at info@africactn.com