Electronic Cargo Tracking Notes also known as ECTN, BESC, BSC or BIETC depending on the destination country remain a central part of customs clearance for many shipments moving into more than 25 African countries. As global trade in the central African region continues to expand more shippers are being required to obtain the ECTN prior to the validation deadline.
ECTN is a mandatory document used by customs clearance to monitor cargo flow, verify shipment details and improve transparency in the supply chain. It includes essential information such as cargo description, value, weight, vessel details and exporter/importer information.
Why the ECTN is Required
Many African countries implemented the ECTN to strengthen customs oversight, reduce cargo related fraud, improve port security and speed up customs clearance processing. For carriers and forwarders, meeting CTN requirements helps ensure smooth clearance and protects shipments from costly delays.
What Countries Require the ECTN
More than 25 African countries currently require the ECTN including Angola, Chad, Cameroon, Congo, Benin, DR Congo, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, and others. Each nation issues its own format of the certificate, but the purpose and process remain broadly similar.
Typical Filing Process
1. Upload the required documents such as bill of lading, commercial invoice, freight invoice and some countries also require the export declaration.
2. Receive your draft ECTN and invoice
3. Check and confirm the details of the draft ECTN
4. Pay the invoice
5. Receive your final validated ECTN ready for customs clearance
Industry Perspective
As global trade continues to shift more cargo flows into African markets, meeting document requirements like the CTN has become a standard practice of the logistics and customs clearance process. Freight forwarders and shippers are advised to familiarize themselves with each country’s rules and timelines to prevent delays and penalties at the destination country.
About AfricaCTN
AfricaCTN supports shippers, carriers and logistics companies with the full CTN filing process for shipments destined for African countries that mandate the certificate. The company provides guidance on required documents, country procedures and validation timelines to ensure compliant and efficient cargo movement. You can find out more here.
Comment on this article