Electronic Cargo Tracking Notes (ECTNs) for African Destinations
What is ECTN certificate?
An ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note) is a type of waiver document and a mandatory requirement for importing goods into several African countries. Also known as a Bordereau de Suivi Cargaison (BSC) or Loading Certificate, the ECTN provides detailed shipment information, helping authorities clear cargo efficiently with its unique tracking number.
These certificates are official marine documents that record key details about cargo and its movement between ports. Many African countries require them to better control, supervise, and manage import/export activities.
Each ECTN must be applied for and validated at the port of loading. The design, format, language, and details of an ECTN certificate vary based on the specific requirements of each country.
The following countries require an ECTN certificate or an equivalent document for imports: Angola, Algeria, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic (CAR), Chad, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Egypt, Gabon, the Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Libya, Madagascar, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Republic of Congo, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Somalia, and Togo.
What are the risks of not having ECTN?
Shipping without an ECTN number exposes your business to unnecessary risks. Without a valid certificate, your cargo will be detained by customs until the document is provided, and penalties can quickly escalate.
When your shipment reaches its destination, port authorities are likely to hold the cargo, leading to costly delays. You’ll be responsible for daily storage fees until the issue is resolved, and additional fines for not complying with import regulations may apply. Ensuring you have a valid ECTN is essential to avoid these risks and keep your operations running smoothly.
What documents are required for ECTN?
To obtain your ECTN Certificate, you’ll need three key documents:
- Ocean Bill of Lading: Proof issued by the carrier confirming receipt of the cargo for shipment.
- Freight Invoice: Shows the cost of transporting the goods (if applicable).
- Commercial Invoice: Includes all details of the goods being shipped, such as descriptions and total value.
Additional documents may also be required, such as:
- Packing List: Details the shipment's contents, weight, and dimensions.
- Export Customs Document: Confirms the goods have been cleared for export.
- Other Specific Documents: Depending on the destination country, you may need an import license, certificate of origin, or other paperwork.
ECTNs for exporting goods from China to Africa
Ahlers China specializes in issuing ECTN certificates for cargo shipped from China to Africa. Due to China's export procedures and Africa's stringent import requirements for the ECTN, the process often involves complex coordination of various documents, adding an extra layer of complexity to the procedure.
Being an authorized agent of the Shippers Council for the Republic of Congo, Benin, and Burkina Faso, Ahlers China provides ECTNs for the cargo, going from China to the above-mentioned countries.
- Expert Support: Ahlers understands both China’s export procedures and Africa’s import requirements, ensuring seamless compliance and smooth operations.
- Efficient Handling: Manages all paperwork for streamlined ECTN processing.
- Authorized Agent: Direct access for quick, reliable ECTN issuance.
- Fewer Delays & Costs: Avoids hold-ups, fines, and extra fees for timely, compliant delivery.