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Step-by-step guide to obtaining an ECTN certificate?

Step 1: Check If ECTN Is Required

Before applying, confirm whether the destination country requires an ECTN certificate. Some African countries, such as Angola, Benin, Burundi, Burkina Faso, and the Central African Republic, mandate an ECTN for all cargo.

Step 2: Choose a Licensed Agent

Each country has authorized agents or approved platforms for issuing ECTN certificates. Ensure you work with a licensed provider to avoid delays or rejections.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

The necessary documents typically include:

Bill of Lading (BL) – Final copy (some agents accept drafts)

Commercial Invoice – Showing cargo details, value, and consignee information

Freight Invoice – If freight cost is not mentioned on the commercial invoice

Export Customs Declaration – Issued by the exporting country

Packing List – Describing goods in detail

Other Documents – Some countries may require additional permits or authorizations (e.g., Angola requires ARCCLA registration)

Step 4: Submit the Application

Register on the agent’s online platform or send the required documents via email.

Fill out the necessary ECTN application form.

Double-check all details to avoid corrections or rejections.

Step 5: Pay the Fees

ECTN processing requires a government-mandated fee, which varies by country. Agents will provide a quote based on:

Cargo type and value

Shipping method (FCL, LCL, RoRo, Breakbulk, etc.)

Destination country’s regulations

Payment is usually made via bank transfer or online payment portals.

Step 6: Receive the Draft ECTN

The agent will issue a draft ECTN for your review.

Verify all details, including cargo description, consignee information, and vessel details.

Request corrections if needed before validation.

Step 7: Validate the ECTN

Once approved, the agent submits it to the destination country’s authorities for validation.

After validation, the ECTN number is generated, and the final document is issued.

Step 8: Send the ECTN Number to the Shipping Line

The shipping line may require the ECTN number for cargo clearance.

Ensure the consignee and customs authorities in the destination country have a copy.

Step 9: Cargo Clearance at Destination

Upon cargo arrival, customs authorities use the ECTN certificate to verify shipment details.

Failure to present a valid ECTN may result in penalties, fines, or cargo delays.

Important Notes

✅ Each country has different deadlines for ECTN submission. Some require it before departure, while others allow submission before arrival. ✅ Failure to comply with ECTN regulations may lead to heavy fines or cargo rejection at the port of entry. ✅ Always work with a trusted agent to ensure a smooth process.

Burundi ECTN?

Burundi ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note)

The Burundi ECTN is a mandatory shipping document required for all cargo shipments to or transiting through Burundi. It helps customs authorities track cargo, ensure compliance, and prevent fraud.

Key Details of Burundi ECTN

✅ Mandatory for all shipments to Burundi ✅ Issued before cargo arrival at the port ✅ Each shipment must have a unique ECTN number ✅ Without it, cargo clearance may be delayed, and fines may apply

Required Documents for Burundi ECTN

📌 Bill of Lading (BL) 📌 Commercial Invoice 📌 Freight Invoice (if separate from the commercial invoice) 📌 Packing List 📌 Other country-specific documents (if applicable)

Process to Obtain Burundi ECTN

1️⃣ Submit the required documents to an authorized ECTN agent 2️⃣ Verification by authorities 3️⃣ Issuance of the ECTN number 4️⃣ Shipment details validated before cargo arrival

Difference Between ECTN, BESC, and CNCA Certificates

These are all cargo tracking documents required by various African countries, but they differ based on their names, issuing authorities, and country-specific requirements.CertificateFull NamePurposeRequired By (Countries)ECTNElectronic Cargo Tracking NoteTracks cargo shipments and ensures customs complianceMultiple African countries (Burundi, Burkina Faso, Central African Republic, etc.)BESCBordereau Électronique de Suivi des Cargaisons (French for "Electronic Cargo Tracking Note")Same as ECTN but used in some Francophone countriesBenin, Togo, Niger, etc.CNCAConselho Nacional de Carregadores de AngolaA specific tracking certificate required for all shipments to AngolaAngola only

Key Differences

1️⃣ ECTN and BESC are essentially the same (BESC is just the French term). 2️⃣ CNCA is exclusive to Angola and has different issuance and validation procedures. 3️⃣ Each certificate is mandatory for customs clearance in the respective country.

How does an ECTN work in cargo shipping?

An ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note) works as a mandatory shipping document required by certain African countries to track cargo shipments. Here’s how the process works in cargo shipping:

1. Application & Submission 📄

The shipper or freight forwarder applies for the ECTN before the cargo is shipped.

Required documents include: ✅ Bill of Lading (BL) ✅ Commercial Invoice ✅ Freight Invoice (if not included in the commercial invoice) ✅ Packing List ✅ Other country-specific documents (e.g., export/import permits)

2. Verification & Issuance ✅

The submitted documents are reviewed by the authorized body in the destination country.

If all details match and comply with regulations, the ECTN is issued with a unique tracking number.

3. Shipping & Tracking 🚢

The ECTN number must be included in the Bill of Lading.

Customs authorities at the destination port track the shipment in real time using the ECTN.

4. Customs Clearance & Compliance ⚖️

Upon arrival, customs officials verify the ECTN against the cargo details.

If everything is correct, the shipment is cleared.

If an ECTN is missing or incorrect, the shipment may face: ❌ Heavy fines ❌ Delays in customs clearance ❌ Cargo rejection or return

Why Is This Process Important?

✅ Prevents fraud, smuggling, and under-invoicing ✅ Ensures correct taxation & customs duties ✅ Improves trade transparency & efficiency

An ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note) is required for several important reasons related to cargo tracking, customs compliance, and trade regulations. Here’s why it is mandatory in many African countries:

1. Cargo Tracking & Transparency 📦

Enables customs authorities to monitor shipments from origin to destination.

Prevents illegal trade, smuggling, and fraud by verifying cargo details before arrival.

2. Customs & Trade Compliance ⚖️

Ensures compliance with import/export regulations of the destination country.

Helps in the proper calculation of customs duties and taxes, preventing revenue loss.

3. Faster Cargo Clearance 🚢

Reduces the risk of delays at ports since customs have pre-verified cargo information.

Helps in efficient cargo handling, minimizing congestion at ports.

4. Maritime Security & Risk Management ⚠️

Helps identify high-risk shipments, reducing security threats.

Ensures that cargo meets international shipping standards.

5. Avoiding Penalties & Fines 💰

Failure to obtain an ECTN can lead to heavy fines, cargo seizure, or return of shipment.

Each country imposes its own regulations and penalties for non-compliance.

Would you like details on ECTN requirements for a specific country?

An ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note) is a mandatory shipping document required by certain African countries for all cargo shipments destined for or transiting through their ports. It helps customs authorities track cargo movement, assess duties and taxes, and ensure compliance with local regulations.

Key Features of an ECTN Certificate

Issued before cargo arrival – The certificate must be obtained before the shipment reaches the destination port.

Contains shipment details – Includes information like shipper, consignee, cargo description, freight charges, and bill of lading details.

Required by multiple countries – Countries such as Burundi, Burkina Faso, Central African Republic, Benin, Angola, and others mandate ECTN for cargo clearance.

Prevents penalties – Failure to present a valid ECTN can result in fines or shipment delays.

Each country has its own specific ECTN regulations, so it's essential to ensure compliance based on the destination. Do you need details for a specific country?

✅ #ECTNCertificate ✅ #CargoTrackingNote ✅ #ShippingDocuments ✅ #FreightForwarding ✅ #LogisticsSolutions ✅ #TradeCompliance ✅ #ShippingIndustry ✅ #GlobalTrade ✅ #ImportExport

🌍 #BurundiECTN 🌍 #BurkinaFasoECTN 🌍 #CentralAfricanRepublicECTN 🌍 #BeninBESC 🌍 #AngolaCNCA

The Republic of Chad ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note) is a mandatory document required for all shipments destined for Chad. It is used to monitor, control, and facilitate international trade while ensuring compliance with customs regulations.

Key Features of Chad ECTN:

Mandatory Requirement: Every shipment to Chad must be covered by an ECTN, issued before the cargo arrives at the port of entry.

Issued at the Port of Loading: The ECTN must be obtained before departure from the exporting country.

Tracking and Compliance: It helps the Chadian authorities track shipments, collect statistical data, and prevent fraud.

Unique Cargo Identification: Each ECTN has a unique reference number, which must be validated before customs clearance in Chad.

Who Needs a Chad ECTN?

Exporters and freight forwarders shipping goods to Chad

Shipping lines and logistics companies handling cargo for Chad

Businesses and individuals importing goods into Chad

Required Documents for ECTN Application:

Bill of Lading (BL)

Commercial Invoice

Freight Invoice (if not included in the Commercial Invoice)

Packing List

Export Customs Declaration

Penalties for Non-Compliance:

Failure to obtain a valid ECTN may result in fines, cargo delays, or rejection by Chadian customs authorities.

The Central African Republic ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note) is a mandatory document required for all shipments heading to the Central African Republic (CAR). It is used to monitor and control cargo movement, ensuring compliance with customs and trade regulations.

Key Points About Central African Republic ECTN:

Requirement: All shipments to CAR must have an ECTN before departure.

Purpose: Helps customs authorities track shipments, prevent fraud, and improve port efficiency.

Issued By: Authorized agencies or representatives appointed by CAR authorities.

Information Included:

Bill of Lading (BL) details

Cargo description

Shipper & consignee details

Freight value and transport information

Consequences of Non-Compliance:

Fines or penalties

Cargo clearance delays

The Burkina Faso ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note) is a mandatory shipping document required for all cargo entering Burkina Faso. It is used to monitor and regulate international shipments, ensuring compliance with trade regulations and providing customs authorities with detailed information about cargo before arrival.

Key Details About Burkina Faso ECTN:

Purpose: Tracks cargo, prevents fraud, and ensures proper customs duties are collected.

Requirement: Mandatory for all shipments to Burkina Faso.

Issued By: Authorized agencies in the country of origin.

Information Included: Shipper details, consignee information, cargo description, freight cost, and other shipping details.

Penalty for Non-Compliance: Shipments without a valid ECTN may face fines, delays, or rejection at the destination port.

Angola CNCA / ARCCLA – Cargo Certification for Angola

Angola CNCA (Conselho Nacional de Carregadores de Angola) and ARCCLA (Agência Reguladora de Certificação de Carga e Logística de Angola) are regulatory bodies responsible for monitoring and certifying cargo shipments to Angola.

1. What is CNCA?

CNCA (Conselho Nacional de Carregadores de Angola) is a mandatory cargo tracking certificate required for all shipments to Angola. It is also known as:

CNCA Certificate

BSC (Bordereau de Suivi de Cargaison)

Loading Certificate (LC)

The CNCA certificate ensures that cargo entering Angola is properly documented and tracked, helping with customs clearance and avoiding penalties.

2. What is ARCCLA?

ARCCLA (Agência Reguladora de Certificação de Carga e Logística de Angola) is the government agency responsible for overseeing cargo certification and logistics in Angola. It regulates the issuance of CNCA certificates and ensures compliance with Angola’s shipping regulations.

3. Why is the CNCA Certificate Important?

Mandatory for all shipments to Angola, without which cargo cannot be cleared.

Prevents fines and delays at Angolan ports.

Ensures cargo tracking and compliance with Angolan import/export laws.

4. How to Obtain a CNCA Certificate?

To apply for a CNCA certificate, the exporter or freight forwarder must provide:

Bill of Lading (Final Copy)

Commercial Invoice

Freight Invoice (if applicable)

Export Customs Declaration (if required)

The application is processed through an authorized agent, and once approved, the CNCA certificate is issued.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for an ECTN Certificate

1. Check If Your Shipment Requires an ECTN

Many African countries require an ECTN for all cargo shipments.

Confirm whether the destination country mandates an ECTN to avoid fines or shipment delays.

2. Choose an Authorized ECTN Provider

Each country designates specific agents to issue ECTNs.

Select a licensed and experienced service provider to ensure a smooth application.

3. Prepare the Required Documents

You will need to submit the following: ✅ Bill of Lading (BL) – Draft or final copy ✅ Commercial Invoice – Details of cargo value ✅ Freight Invoice – If freight cost is not included in the commercial invoice ✅ Export Customs Declaration – From the country of origin ✅ Packing List – Details of shipment contents ✅ Other documents (Depending on the country) – Certificate of Origin, Cargo Manifest, Transport Contract, etc.

4. Submit Your Application

Send the documents to the authorized agent handling ECTN certificates.

Ensure that all details are accurate to prevent delays or rejection.

5. Pay the Required Fees

Fees vary based on destination, cargo type, and freight cost.

Payments must be made before validation.

6. Verification & Issuance of the Draft ECTN

The issuing authority reviews the submitted documents.

A draft ECTN is provided for approval before final validation.

7. Receive the Final ECTN Certificate

Once validated, the final ECTN number is issued.

The certificate must be submitted to customs before cargo arrival at the destination port.

Important Notes:

✔ Processing Time: Typically 1-3 business days, but delays may occur if corrections are needed. ✔ Penalties for Non-Compliance: If the ECTN is missing, the consignee may face fines, cargo detention, or shipment rejection. ✔ Country-Specific Rules: Some nations, like Angola, Burundi, and Burkina Faso, have unique requirements.

1. Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation

Issue: Missing or inaccurate documents (e.g., discrepancies between the Bill of Lading and Commercial Invoice) can lead to delays or rejections.

Solution: Double-check all required documents before submission and ensure consistency across all paperwork.

2. Varying Requirements by Country

Issue: Each country has different ECTN requirements, authorized agents, and validation processes, making it hard to standardize the application process.

Solution: Research the specific ECTN rules for the destination country or work with an experienced freight forwarder.

3. Delays in Processing and Approval

Issue: The verification process may take longer than expected, especially if authorities request additional documents.

Solution: Apply for the ECTN well in advance to avoid shipment delays.

4. High Costs and Unexpected Fees

Issue: ECTN fees vary by destination, and additional charges may apply for late submissions or corrections.

Solution: Request a detailed fee breakdown from your agent before initiating the process.

5. Limited Availability of Authorized Agents

Issue: Some countries only allow a few agents to process ECTNs, leading to bottlenecks.

Solution: Work with a reliable and recognized ECTN provider to avoid last-minute issues.

6. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Issue: Failure to present a validated ECTN upon arrival may result in fines, cargo delays, or even shipment rejection by customs authorities.

Solution: Always confirm the certificate's validity and ensure submission before cargo arrival.

1. Bill of Lading (BL)

Draft or final copy

Must include shipment details such as consignee, shipper, cargo description, and destination

2. Commercial Invoice

Specifies the value of the cargo

Must match the details on the Bill of Lading

3. Freight Invoice (If applicable)

Required if the freight cost is not included in the commercial invoice

Helps in calculating government fees or import duties

4. Export Customs Declaration

Issued by the customs authority of the country of origin

Confirms that the goods are legally exported

5. Packing List

Details the contents of the shipment, including weight and dimensions

Ensures proper classification and verification

6. Certificate of Origin (Sometimes Required)

Confirms where the goods were manufactured or produced

Helps in complying with trade agreements and import regulations

7. Other Country-Specific Documents

Some destinations may require additional paperwork, such as:

Cargo Manifest

Transport Contract

Import License (if applicable)

Important Notes:

Ensure all documents are accurate and consistent to avoid delays.

Missing or incorrect information can lead to penalties or cargo detention at the destination.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for an ECTN Certificate

1. Determine if Your Shipment Requires an ECTN

Certain African countries, such as Burundi, Burkina Faso, Angola, and others, require an ECTN for all shipments.

Check the specific regulations for your destination.

2. Contact an Authorized Agent

Each country designates authorized agents for processing ECTNs.

Choose a licensed provider to handle your application.

3. Gather Required Documents

You will need to submit the following documents:

Bill of Lading (BL) – Draft or final copy

Commercial Invoice – Details of the shipment’s value

Freight Invoice – If not included in the commercial invoice

Export Customs Declaration – From the country of origin

Packing List – Detailing the shipped items

Other Documents – Some countries may require additional paperwork like a certificate of origin, cargo manifest, or transport contract.

4. Submit the Application

Send all required documents to the authorized agent.

Ensure accuracy to prevent rejection or delays.

5. Make Payment

Pay the applicable ECTN fees, which vary based on:

Destination country

Type of goods

Freight cost

6. Verification and Approval

The issuing body reviews the documents.

Once validated, you receive a draft ECTN for approval.

7. Get the Final Validated ECTN

Upon approval of the draft, the final ECTN is issued.

This must be submitted to customs authorities before the shipment arrives.

Important Notes

Timeframe: It usually takes 1 to 3 days for approval.

Are you involved in international trade and shipping? If so, you may have heard of the Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN) certificate. This document is a crucial requirement for transporting goods to various African countries. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about ECTN certificates and how you can obtain one easily.

What is an ECTN Certificate?

The ECTN certificate, also known as the Electronic Cargo Tracking Note, is a mandatory document required by many African countries to monitor and control shipments arriving at their ports. This document provides essential details about the cargo, including:

Shipper and consignee information

Cargo description

Freight cost

Bill of Lading details

Invoice and packing list

The primary purpose of the ECTN is to improve cargo security, streamline customs clearance, and enhance port efficiency.

Why is an ECTN Certificate Important?

If you are shipping goods to countries that require an ECTN certificate, failure to present one can lead to serious consequences, such as:

Heavy fines and penalties

Shipment delays

Possible cargo rejection at the port of destination

By obtaining an ECTN in advance, you ensure smooth customs clearance and avoid unnecessary complications.

Which Countries Require an ECTN Certificate?

Several African nations have implemented ECTN regulations. Some of the key countries that require this certificate include:

Angola

Burundi

Burkina Faso

Democratic Republic of Congo

Gabon

Guinea

Togo

Senegal

Chad

Cameroon

Each country has specific ECTN application procedures and requirements, so it is crucial to ensure compliance with their regulations.

How to Obtain an ECTN Certificate?

Getting an ECTN certificate involves several steps, but with the right guidance, the process is simple. Here’s what you need to do:

Submit the Required Documents – Provide the necessary shipping documents, such as the Bill of Lading, commercial invoice, and freight invoice.

Apply Through an Authorized Agent – Only authorized agents can issue ECTN certificates. Ensure you work with a trusted provider.

Payment of Fees – Each country has different ECTN costs, which depend on cargo details and shipping routes.

Receive Your Validated Certificate – After approval, you will receive your ECTN, which must be included in your shipping documents.

Get Your ECTN Certificate Hassle-Free!

Applying for an ECTN certificate can be complex if you’re unfamiliar with the process. That’s why we offer a seamless and efficient service to help you get your certificate quickly. Whether you’re shipping to Angola, Burundi, Burkina Faso, or any other ECTN-requiring country, we handle all the paperwork so you can focus on your business.