Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about cargo documentation for Africa
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All frequently asked questions
The Importance of ECTN in International Shipping Top Question
In today's globalized economy, international shipping is crucial in facilitating trade between countries. One key aspect of this process is the Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN), the Bordereau de Suivi Cargaison (BSC). This article explores the importance of ECTN in international shipping, focusing on its benefits, requirements, and impact on the logistics sector.
What is ECTN?
The Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN) is a mandatory document required by certain countries for all cargo being imported into their territories. It serves as a pre-shipment verification tool that provides detailed information about the cargo and its movement between ports.
The ECTN is required by countries in Africa, including Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Guinea Bissau, Guinea Conakry, Ivory Coast, Republic of Congo, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Niger, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, and Togo. It ensures that the necessary customs data is available before the goods arrive, facilitating smoother customs clearance.
What is a Cargo Tracking Note (CTN)?
A CTN is a document required by certain African destination countries that tracks cargo from the port of origin to the destination port. It is typically obtained before the vessel departs. Requirements differ by country and cargo type — we confirm exactly what applies to your specific shipment at the time of inquiry.
Do I need an ECTN or a CTN for my shipment?
It depends on your destination country. Some countries require a CTN, others an ECTN, and some require neither. We identify the correct certificate based on your destination and cargo details. You can browse the certificates page for an overview, or submit a quote request and we'll confirm exactly what applies.
Do certificate requirements change over time?
Yes. African destination authorities periodically update their certificate requirements — new mandates are introduced, authorities change, and country-specific rules evolve. We follow these changes as they happen and apply current requirements to every shipment. Always confirm requirements at the time of your inquiry rather than relying on historic information.
Can you guarantee that my shipment will be cleared?
No. We provide documentation preparation and support — we cannot guarantee customs clearance, port acceptance, or certification outcomes, as those decisions rest with the relevant authorities. What we can guarantee is that your documentation will be prepared accurately and submitted correctly according to current requirements.
What shipment modes do you support?
We support FCL (Full Container Load), LCL (Less than Container Load), Break Bulk, RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off), Project Cargo, Consolidated Shipments, and Air Freight. If your shipment mode isn't listed, contact us — we'll advise whether we can support it.
Do you work with shipments from any country?
Yes. Your shipment can originate from any country, seaport, airport, or inland container depot worldwide. We work with all origins for Africa-bound cargo — there is no restriction on where your shipment begins.
Are you affiliated with any certificate authority or government body?
No. TFPAFRICAGLOBAL is an independent, provider-neutral documentation support platform. We are not affiliated with any certificate-issuing authority, customs agency, logistics company, or government body. Our guidance is independent and focused on your shipment's requirements.
How long does the documentation process take?
Processing times vary by certificate type, destination country, and the issuing authority. Some certificates can be obtained within 24–48 hours; others require several working days. We cannot guarantee specific timelines, but we will give you an honest estimate at the time of your inquiry and update you at every stage of the process.
What information do I need to provide to get a quote?
To assess your documentation requirements accurately, we need: cargo description, port or airport of origin, destination country and port, estimated departure date, and shipment mode (FCL, LCL, Air, etc.). An HS code is helpful if you have it. The more detail you provide, the more accurate and complete our response will be. Go to the quote form →
How will I receive my completed documentation?
Once confirmed by the issuing authority, we deliver your completed documentation directly to you — typically by email in the format required by the authority. We retain a record of the submission and confirmation for your reference. If you require a specific delivery format or method, let us know at the time of inquiry.
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