General FAQ
The ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note) solves the problem of document fraud in Africa shipping. It is a paperless document that tracks the movement of cargo through the supply chain. The ECTN is issued by the government of the importing country and is required for all shipments entering or transiting Africa.
The ECTN has several features that make it difficult to counterfeit or tamper with. It is a unique, serialized document that is linked to the shipment’s bill of lading. The ECTN is also encrypted and digitally signed, making it difficult to forge.
The use of the ECTN has significantly reduced document fraud in West Africa shipping. In 2010, the World Bank estimated that document fraud cost the region $1 billion per year. By 2015, after the introduction of the ECTN, this figure had fallen to $210 million.
The ECTN is a valuable tool for combating document fraud and improving the security of West Africa shipping. It is a key part of the region’s efforts to reduce maritime crime and promote economic development.
In addition to solving the problem of document fraud, the ECTN also has other benefits, such as:
- Increased transparency in the supply chain
- Increase Import taxes for the wellbeing of the nation
- Improved cargo security
- Increased efficiency at ports
- Provide accurate data for statistical purposes
The ECTN is a valuable tool for improving the efficiency and security of international trade. It is a key part of the global effort to combat maritime crime and promote economic development.
ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note) is the English name as BSC (Bordereau de Suivi des Cargaisons) is in french. They both serve the same purposes and are used in different regions. The main difference lies in the terminology and specific requirements for each document.
ECTN Certificates are required to ensure proper control, monitoring, and statistics of maritime trade. They help prevent smuggling, ensure compliance with customs regulations, and facilitate efficient customs clearance processes.
The countries that require an ECTN Certificate vary, but some examples include Angola, Benin, Cameroon, Congo, Burkina Faso, Madagascar.. and many others. It’s important to check the specific requirements of the destination country to ensure a smooth shipping process.
The process involves submitting the necessary information and documentation related to the cargo and shipment to the authorized representative. The unique reference number is linked to the Bill of Lading and the whole process is done online.
The required information typically includes details about the shipper, consignee, vessel, container, goods, and the intended route. Additional documents such as the commercial invoice, packing list, and Bill of Lading are often required to support the application.
The responsibility for obtaining the ECTN Certificate usually falls on the shipper or freight forwarder. Not obtaining an ECTN Certificate may result in a hefty fine.
The processing time for an ECTN Certificate varies depending on the destination country. It can range from a few hours to a couple of days. It’s advisable to apply well in advance of the shipment to avoid delays and penalty fees.
Failure to provide a valid ECTN Certificate when required can result in penalties, delays, and even the refusal of cargo clearance at the destination port. It is crucial to comply with the regulations of the destination country to avoid such consequences.
The cost of an ECTN Certificate varies depending on the destination country, and the specifics of the shipment. The fees typically include application charges, service charges, and other associated costs.
Exemptions or exceptions to the ECTN Certificate requirement can vary by country and are often based on factors such as the nature of the cargo, the vessel, the trade agreements in place, or specific government regulations. It’s important to consult the destination country’s customs authorities or the authorized representative for clarification.
All ECTN Certificates can be applied for and processed online without requiring any hard copies of the documents. Approved service providers often offer online application portals for convenience and efficiency.
Depending on the country, once an ECTN Certificate is issued, it is generally not possible to modify or update it. Though in certain cases it is possible to modify the validated certificate but it will result in a penalty cost. So essential to ensure the accuracy of the information provided during the application process to avoid any discrepancies or issues with customs clearance.
The validity of an ECTN Certificate varies depending on the regulations of the destination country. The certificate is valid for a single shipment and should cover the entire journey from the port of loading to the port of discharge.
Some potential challenges or issues with ECTN Certificates include delays in processing, incorrect or incomplete information leading to rejection, varying requirements among different countries, and the need to coordinate with multiple parties involved in the shipment. So it’s important to plan ahead and make sure all required documents are coherent.
The ECTN Certificate is an essential document for customs clearance in countries where it is required. Customs authorities use the certificate to verify the information provided, track cargo movement, and ensure compliance with regulations before granting clearance for the cargo.
Yes, certain types of goods or cargo may have specific requirements or additional documentation for ECTN Certificate applications. These requirements can include hazardous materials declarations, certificates of origin, or specific permits/licenses. It’s important to understand the country’s regulations applicable to the specific type of goods being shipped.
The documents required to support an ECTN Certificate application may include the commercial invoice, packing list, Bill of Lading, export customs declaration, and any other relevant shipping documents. The specific requirements can vary depending on the destination country.
Yes, it is often possible to apply for an ECTN Certificate before booking your cargo shipment. It is advisable to start the application process early to ensure timely issuance of the certificate and avoid any potential delays.
The ECTN Certificate is typically linked to the Bill of Lading through a unique reference number. This reference number is mentioned on both the ECTN Certificate and the Bill of Lading to establish a connection between the cargo details and the shipment documentation.
Common reasons for ECTN Certificate rejection can include incomplete or inaccurate information, missing supporting documentation, failure to meet specific requirements of the destination country, or non-compliance with applicable regulations. It is crucial to provide complete and accurate information to avoid rejection.
The cancellation or refund policies for ECTN Certificates may vary depending on the regulations of the destination country. It’s typically impossible to un-validate an ECTN. If there’s a cancellation before validation a refund may be possible but not if it has been validated. It is advisable to review the terms and conditions or directly contact us to understand the possibilities for cancellation or refunds.
ECTN Certificates are issued for individual shipments and are not valid for multiple shipments. Each shipment requires its own unique ECTN Certificate.
Providing incorrect or incomplete information on the ECTN Certificate can result in rejection of the certificate, delays in customs clearance, penalties, fines, or even seizure of the cargo. It is crucial to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information provided to avoid such consequences.
Without an ECTN Certificate when required, potential delays or complications at the destination port can include customs clearance delays, additional inspections, penalties or fines, refusal of cargo discharge, or even potential legal consequences. It is crucial to comply with the regulations of the destination country to avoid such issues.