ECTN Certificate
The ECTN Certificate (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note) is a required document for ships engaged in maritime transportation between African countries. This document is used to track customs controls in the countries passed through during the journey from the departure port to the destination port.
The ECTN document contains the details of the cargo's journey from its source to its destination port. These details include the name of the ship, the type of cargo, the quantity, and the information of the sender and receiver. The electronic arrangement of the ECTN can speed up customs procedures and ensure compliance with specific customs regulations in maritime transportation.
African countries often require the ECTN, and shipowners or carriers cannot clear cargo through customs without obtaining this certificate. The ECTN provides customs authorities, port operators, and other stakeholders with information about the cargo being transported, helping to organize and track customs processes. This ensures that trade between countries is regulated and monitored.
Why is the ECTN Certificate Necessary?
The ECTN, also known by various names such as BSC, FERI, and BIETC, is commonly used when shipping goods to African countries. It is necessary for your recipient to be able to manage the customs process smoothly.
Customs Procedures and Tracking: The ECTN enables customs controls to be tracked in the countries passed through during the cargo's journey from the departure port to the destination port. This allows customs authorities to obtain information about the transported cargo and organize the necessary customs procedures.
Security and Control: The ECTN certificate ensures that the transportation process is monitored, which enhances security and control in international shipping. Problems that may arise during transportation can be resolved more effectively.
Regulation of Trade: African countries use the ECTN certificate to regulate maritime trade. This document helps ensure that trade between countries is conducted transparently and is properly recorded.
Electronic Processing Capability: The electronic processing of the ECTN speeds up procedures and reduces paper usage. The electronic system allows for more efficient and timely customs procedures.
The ECTN Certificate may be a requirement for shipowners or carriers engaged in freight transportation, and customs procedures will not be completed without obtaining this certificate. This contributes to ensuring that international trade is conducted in an orderly and reliable manner.
What is the ECTN Certificate Procedure?
Obtaining the ECTN certificate is necessary to track the cargo, inspect it, and ensure that all imports comply with the regulations of the destination country.
The following countries require the ECTN as of 2023:
Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Chad, Djibouti, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Guinea-Conakry, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Republic of the Congo, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Niger, Central African Republic, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Somalia, and Togo.
ECTN is required for shipments directed to these African countries.
What Documents are Required?
Commercial Invoice: A document detailing the shipped products, including their value.
Bill of Lading: A document confirming that the cargo has been received by the carrier.
Freight Invoice: A document showing the shipping costs of the materials being transported.
Packing List: A detailed list describing the contents, weight, and dimensions of the shipment.
Export Customs Document: A document confirming that the exported goods have completed the export process.
Additional Special Documents: Depending on the country, additional documents such as import permits or certificates of origin may be required.
Application Process and Certification
Applications for the ECTN certificate are made online. Required documents are sent to the authorized agency for validation. If there are missing or incorrect documents, corrections are requested, and the documents are sent back to the agency. Afterward, the payment is made to the agency. Upon payment confirmation, the certificate is processed in the system with a QR code and sent to the recipient by email.
During this process, missing or incorrect documents may cause slight delays. Therefore, it is recommended to apply for the ECTN certificate early. For more information, feel free to contact us.
