Where Is an ECTN Required and Where to Obtain It

One of the most practical and frequent questions for traders is: where is an Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN) required, and where do you obtain one? The answer involves two parts: the geographical jurisdictions that mandate ECTNs, and the channels you use to request and receive the document.

Geographic scope — where ECTNs are commonly required

ECTNs are most often associated with West and Central Africa, where several countries have implemented mandatory cargo tracking notes to improve customs control and revenue collection. While government policies change, examples of places where ECTN or similar cargo-tracking notes have been implemented include ports in countries such as Senegal, Côte d'Ivoire, Togo, Benin, Cameroon, Gabon, and the Republic of the Congo. Requirements may differ from country to country and can change with new regulations or bilateral trade agreements.

Important practical point: whether an ECTN is required depends on the destination country (or a transit country that requires documentation). Always confirm the rule for the specific final port of discharge and any countries of transit.

Where to obtain an ECTN

ECTNs must be obtained from official, authorized channels. There are typically two routes:

• Authorized national ECTN portals - Many governments maintain or authorize an online platform where shippers or their agents enter the required shipment data and receive an official ECTN number after payment of the applicable fee. These portals are the primary legitimate source for ECTNs in regulated jurisdictions.
• Local agents and accredited service providers - Licensed local agents, freight forwarders, or specialized ECTN service companies can act on behalf of exporters to prepare and submit the ECTN through the official portal. This is a common choice for businesses that prefer to outsource the administrative task or lack direct access to the online system.

Where the ECTN is presented

Once issued, the ECTN reference is provided to parties that need it: carriers and shipping lines often require the ECTN number before loading cargo; customs brokers or the importer will present it to customs at arrival; port authorities use it in their arrival/clearance processes. Electronic verification (via portal or QR code) is sometimes used to confirm an ECTN's validity.

Practical examples of port processes

• At the port of loading (origin), shipping lines may reject cargo for stowage if a required ECTN has not been issued. That makes timely issuance essential.
• At destination, customs may hold cargo until they can verify the ECTN. If the ECTN is missing or incorrect, ports may delay release, leading to demurrage charges for the consignee.

How to confirm requirements

Because rules can change, always take these steps:

1. Check the destination country's customs or port authority website for up-to-date ECTN or cargo tracking requirements.
2. Speak with your freight forwarder or carrier and confirm whether an ECTN is necessary for your specific shipment and port of discharge.
3. Use only official or accredited channels to obtain the ECTN and retain confirmation receipts and the ECTN number for documentation.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Assuming the ECTN is not required because the shipment transits through another country. Transit rules can trigger ECTN needs.
• Using unverified 'providers' who promise cheap ECTNs; unauthorized ECTNs may be rejected by customs and cause delays.
• Waiting until the last minute. Many ECTN systems require issuance before vessel loading, and late issuance can result in fines or refused loading.

Friendly final tip



When in doubt, ask your carrier, forwarder, or customs broker and verify via the destination country's official sources. That small step saves time, avoids fees, and keeps your goods moving smoothly through ports that require an ECTN.