What is Sudan ACD?
The ACD (Advance Cargo Declaration) is Sudan's mandatory pre-loading customs requirement for every sea shipment discharging at Port Sudan. Announced by the Sudan Customs Authority and effective from 1 January 2026, the ACD applies to all cargo types — general cargo, machinery, spare parts and vehicles — regardless of global origin. The ACD number must be obtained by the shipper, exporter or freight forwarder before the cargo is loaded, and then referenced on the final Bill of Lading. Shipments loaded without a valid ACD reference face amendment refusals from carriers, customs clearance delays and demurrage at Port Sudan.
Official ACD Validation Procedure
According to the customs regulations of Sudan, every cargo shipment purchased from abroad and transported for commercial, business, diplomatic, or personal purposes requires a validated Loading Certificate:
- ▪The shipper, exporter or freight forwarder applies for the ACD number before the cargo is loaded at origin.
- ▪Prepare the freighted (rated) draft Bill of Lading and the Commercial Invoice for validation.
- ▪Our compliance desk cross-checks the shipper, consignee, cargo description and declared values, then issues the ACD number.
- ▪Provide the ACD reference to your carrier so it is annotated on the final Bill of Lading.
- ▪File early — because enforcement is at loading, a missing ACD can stop the cargo from being shipped, not just delayed at destination.
Waiver Regulations & Q&A
What is the ACD certificate for Sudan?
The ACD (Advance Cargo Declaration) is a mandatory Sudan Customs requirement, effective 1 January 2026, that must be obtained before cargo is loaded for any shipment arriving at Port Sudan.
Which documents are needed to get an ACD number for Sudan?
The core documents are the freighted (rated) draft Bill of Lading and the Commercial Invoice. Our desk confirms any additional details required for your specific cargo.
When must the Sudan ACD be obtained?
Before the cargo is loaded at the port of origin. The ACD reference then has to appear on the final Bill of Lading.
Does the ACD apply to vehicles and used machinery?
Yes. The Sudan ACD applies to all cargo types shipped to Sudan, including passenger vehicles, general cargo, machinery and spare parts, from any origin.
What happens if I ship to Sudan without an ACD?
Carriers may refuse Bill of Lading amendments and Sudan Customs can hold the cargo, leading to clearance delays and demurrage charges at Port Sudan until a valid ACD is provided.