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What is a CTN Certificate?

A CTN Certificate (Cargo Tracking Note) is a mandatory document that was introduced by several African countries to regulate import and export shipments. The CTN system allows the government authorities to track cargo movements, collect accurate data for customs, and ensure compliance with taxation and import/export regulations. It is primarily required for shipments destined for African ports.

Countries like Angola, Benin, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Ivory Coast, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Senegal, and Sierra Leone, among others, have implemented the CTN system. Each country may have a different name for the CTN (such as BSC, ENS, or ECTN), but they all serve the same function.

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Why is the CTN Certificate required?

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Control and Regulation of Goods

The CTN certificate helps authorities to monitor all goods entering or leaving the country, which is essential for customs enforcement, national security, and accurate record-keeping.

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Customs Clearance

Without a valid CTN certificate, shipments can be delayed or even refused entry at their destination port. This certificate is often required as part of the customs clearance process.

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Ensuring Compliance

It ensures that importers and exporters comply with local and international trade regulations. Having accurate data also helps governments determine the correct amount of taxes and duties on goods.

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Trade Data

The CTN helps in the collection of valuable trade statistics, allowing countries to better manage their import-export activities and make informed economic decisions.

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About CTN Certificate
What You Need to Know

Failure to obtain a CTN certificate can lead to various consequences:

  • Heavy Fines: Importers and exporters can face substantial financial penalties if their cargo arrives without the necessary CTN documentation.
  • Delays: Goods without a valid CTN may be delayed for extended periods at the port, resulting in additional storage and demurrage charges.
  • Cargo Refusal: In the worst-case scenario, cargo without the CTN certificate may be refused entry into the destination country, leading to significant losses for the importer or exporter.

  • Timeframe: The CTN must be issued before the ship arrives at the destination port, and in some cases, it must be obtained before the ship departs from the port of origin.
  • Country-Specific Rules: While the basic purpose of the CTN is the same, the application process, fees, and required documents can vary between countries. It’s important for shippers to familiarize themselves with the specific CTN regulations of the country they are dealing with.

  • Enhanced Security: Tracking the cargo reduces the risk of illegal shipments, smuggling, and under-invoicing.
  • Accurate Taxation: The CTN allows customs authorities to correctly assess duties and taxes based on the accurate declaration of goods.

Reduced Fraud: The CTN system helps in curbing fraudulent practices by ensuring that the information provided matches the actual cargo.

Certificate cost depends on the number of Bill of Ladings and the containers, the country of origin, the port of discharge, etc. This is why we can’t give you an exact price for the CTN. But if you share your shipment’s details with us we can provide you the best charges for your certificate. We offer free quotation.

Angola
Benin
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Central African Republic
Cameroon
Chad
Djibouti
DR Congo
Republic of Congo
Equatorial Guinea
Gabon
The Gambia
Ghana
Republic of Guinea
Guinea Bissau
Ivory Coast
Liberia
Madagascar
Mali
Niger
Senegal
Sierra Leone
Somalia
South Sudan
Togo
Egypt


CTN Certificate Application Process and Required Documents

Documents Required for CTN Application

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Bill of Lading (BL)

A document issued by a carrier that details the type, quantity, and destination of the goods being shipped.

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Commercial Invoice

A document issued by the seller that lists the details of the goods sold, including the price, terms, and payment information.

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Packing List

A document that provides details about the shipment's contents, including the weight, dimensions, and packaging information.

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Freight Invoice

A document that outlines the cost of transporting the goods. It includes details about the shipping method, cost, and any additional charges.

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Export Declaration

This is required in some cases and provides customs with information about the goods leaving the country.

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Certificates of Origin or Quality (if required)

Some countries may request additional documents certifying the origin or quality of goods being imported.

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Booking Confirmation

Some authorities require proof that the shipment has been booked with the carrier for transport.

Application Process

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Document Submission

The shipper or their representative submits the required documents to the relevant CTN authority or agency in the destination country. Some countries have online portals for CTN applications.

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Verification

The submitted documents are verified by the CTN issuing body to ensure compliance with the destination country's regulations.

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Issuance

Once verified, the CTN certificate is issued, usually with a unique tracking number. This number must be included on all relevant shipping documents.

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Presentation at Destination

The CTN certificate must be presented to customs authorities at the destination port. Failure to do so may result in penalties, fines, or the refusal of cargo entry.


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Costs and Fees

The cost of obtaining a CTN certificate varies depending on the destination country, the nature of the goods, and the shipment volume. It usually includes a service fee for processing the certificate. Some countries may have additional charges based on the value or weight of the cargo.

In summary, the CTN certificate is an essential part of international shipping to certain African countries. It ensures compliance with trade regulations, enhances security, and facilitates accurate taxation. Shippers must ensure they apply for and obtain this certificate before their goods are shipped to avoid delays, penalties, or cargo rejection.

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