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ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note)
- A Password to Africa
As to be an abbreviated form for Electronic Cargo Tracking Note, ETCN is a certificate that allows the relevant authorities to track, manage, and supervise all shipments from loading to the delivery to the destination.
Just like AMS System which has been implemented to many other trade lane, ECTN works to provide the authorities at Destination with the information about the cargos before they arrive at the destination.
AMS = Advanced Manifest System (Shipping carriers must report their cargo to destination customs before sailing).
ECTN
- A Password to Africa
Essential Documents for Obtaining an ECTN Certificate
Getting an ECTN Certificate requires three main documents. If Maersk is your ocean carrier, two of these documents are already ready. If we handle your export clearance or supply chain, we will take care of all three documents and issue the ECTN Certificate for you, so you don’t need to do anything further.
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Ocean Bill of Lading: A document from the carrier confirming they received your cargo for shipment.
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Freight Invoice: Only if the freight cost is not reflected on to the commercial invoice.
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Commercial Invoice: Lists details about the goods, including their total value.
Depending on the items and destination countries, you might be requested to submit the following additional documents:
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Packing List: Details the contents, weight, and size of your shipment.
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Export Customs Document: Proves your goods are cleared for export.
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Country-Specific Documents: Some destinations may need extra paperwork like an import license or certificate of origin.
Angola
CNCA
Benin
BESC
Burkina Faso
ECTN
Cameroon
BESC
Congo
FERI
Gabon
BIETC
Ghana
CTN
Ivory Coast
BSC
Liberia
CTN
Madagascar
BSC
Senegal
BSC
Togo
ECTN
Egypt
ACID
Burundi
ECTN
Djibouti
ECTN
Equatorial Guinea
ECTN
Sierra Leone
CTN
South Sudan
ECTN
Current Status: BIS-Regulated Items
Different types of ECTNs exist because each country has its own rules, trade needs, and economic goals. While it may seem complicated, these certificates help ensure shipments follow local laws, prevent fraud, and make trade smoother.
The diversity of ECTN types are for the need to meet unique regulatory, logistical, and economic requirements of each country. While this diversity may seem complex, it ensures that shipments comply with local laws, prevent fraud, and promote smoother trade operations.
Each country has its own rules, and we’ve gathered them here to make your shipping process smoother. You’ll find easy-to-understand details that will help you stay compliant and avoid any shipping delays.
Getting more than, and beyond ECTN.
As an experienced international freight forwarder, we, ZIM Solution, work with compliance specialists to help you with more than just getting ECTNs. We make sure your shipping process is smooth and follows all the rules.
Our expertise and support make shipping to and from African countries simple and reliable, making us a trusted partner for your international shipping needs.
Get the picture of what it is and leave us for the rest. Will let you know what it takes and what is to be done, making it happen.
Frequently Asked Questions
You should apply for an ECTN before loading the cargo onto the vessel. Most countries require the ECTN to be validated before the shipment’s departure, and failure to comply may result in fines or delays.
Without a valid ECTN, your cargo may face serious issues, such as fines, delays, or refusal of entry at the destination port. In some cases, shipments may even be returned to the origin country, causing significant additional costs.
The time it takes to obtain an ECTN certificate depends on the country and the accuracy of the submitted documents. Typically:
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Standard processing time: 1 to 3 business days after submitting all required documents.
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Urgent processing (if available): Some countries or agents may offer expedited services, reducing the time to within 24 hours.
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Delays: Incomplete or incorrect documents can extend the processing time, so ensuring accuracy is crucial.
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Yes, you can usually amend or cancel an ECTN certificate, but it depends on the country’s specific regulations and the stage of the process:
Amendment
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Allowed: Most countries permit amendments to an issued ECTN for corrections (e.g., wrong details on the Bill of Lading or invoice).
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Conditions: Changes may require supporting documents, and amendments often come with additional fees.
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Timing: Amendments must usually be made before the certificate is validated or before the vessel arrives at the destination port.
Cancellations
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Allowed: Cancellation may be possible if the ECTN hasn’t been validated yet.
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Conditions: Some countries impose fees or restrictions for cancellations.
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Process: You may immediately need to contact the Freight forwarder or agent to request cancellation and provide justification.
It’s important to double-check all details before submitting the application to minimize the need for changes. Let me know if you need guidance for a specific case!
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Since 1999, ZIM Solution's expert team has specialized in supporting shippers and freight forwarders with their shipments to Africa. Our expertise extends beyond securing the ECTN Certificate—we excel in coordinating with multiple agents and managing seamless cross-border operations to ensure successful cargo deliveries. Contact us today for a streamlined and efficient shipping experience!
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Steps to Apply for ECTN
The document, similar to standard shipping documents, includes detailed information about the cargo and transportation. Once issued, it enables electronic tracking of the cargo, making management more convenient and efficient.
However, our process doesn't end with just obtaining this document. There's an additional crucial step: incorporating the issued document number into the Bill of Lading (BL). This step ensures seamless integration and enhances the traceability of the shipment throughout its journey.
At first glance, it might seem similar to standard shipping documents, but without prior knowledge, preparing it can be quite challenging.
If you're planning to export to Africa, ZIM Solution is here to help you get everything ready in advance, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process.
Freight forwarding
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