What is ECTN?

What is ECTN?

An Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN) is a mandatory pre-shipment document required by several African countries. Exporters must obtain an ECTN number before cargo is loaded, or the shipment cannot be cleared at the destination port.

Common Aliases

• BESC — Benin, Cameroon, Burkina Faso
• BSC — Côte d'Ivoire
• FERI — DR Congo
• CNCA — Angola

Why is ECTN Required?

1. Pre-clearance review by destination customs

2. Prevention of under-invoicing and duty evasion

3. Trade statistics collection

4. Shipments without valid ECTN face delays and penalties