About Cargo Tracking Notes
Welcome to the Somaliland ECTN website, the official platform for obtaining Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN) certificates for shipments to Berbera.
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Why Are ECTN Certificates Important?
Port authorities emphasize that the primary purpose of the Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN) is to significantly reduce risk and provide accurate insight into incoming shipments, including details about the cargo, exporters, importers, and logistics.
Many African nations mandate that exporters submit detailed shipment information to customs officials prior to the cargo’s arrival. The ECTN—also known as a waiver document—enables Marine Customs Authorities to access vital data such as the nature and value of the cargo, shipping routes, transport methods, and the parties involved in the trade.
This document ensures security by allowing customs to track shipments in advance, well before they reach the destination port. It also supports data collection for future logistical planning through integrated technology systems. Importantly, failing to present a valid ECTN upon arrival may result in significant penalties at the port of entry.
Procedure for the ECTN Certificate
Required Documentation
To apply for an ECTN, you must typically submit the following:
- Bill of Lading
- Commercial Invoice
- Freight Invoice
Who Is Responsible?
The responsibility for securing the ECTN lies with the shipper, exporter, or freight forwarder at the port of loading.
ECTN Reference on the Bill of Lading
For all shipments to Djibouti, it is mandatory to include the ECTN Reference Number on the Bill of Lading.
Validation Deadline
The ECTN must be validated at least five days prior to the vessel’s arrival in Berbera.
Risks of Non-Compliance
Failure to obtain a valid ECTN can result in serious consequences, including customs clearance delays, financial penalties, and in extreme cases, the seizure or confiscation of the cargo.
Required Documents for Port of Berbera ECTN
Bill of Lading
A formal document issued by the carrier that confirms receipt of goods for shipment. It outlines key details such as the cargo’s origin and destination, a description of the items, and the agreed shipping terms.
Commercial Invoice
A document provided by the seller to the buyer that serves as proof of the sale. It includes comprehensive details about the goods, including quantity, pricing, and both buyer and seller information.
Freight Invoice
This document breaks down the charges related to the transportation of the shipment. It typically outlines the transport costs, mode of shipment, and any additional fees associated with delivering the cargo.
Recommendations for ECTN Processing and System Access
System Account Setup Guidelines
When creating your account, you must upload only your Business License. Submitting any additional documents will lead to account rejection and require you to start the registration process again.
Applying for the ECTN Certificate
Start your Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN) application well in advance of your shipping date, as processing durations may vary.
Required Documents for ECTN Application
To ensure a smooth application process, prepare the following:
- Bill of Lading
- Commercial Invoice
- Freight Invoice
Note: If freight charges are already listed in the Commercial Invoice, a separate Freight Invoice is not necessary. All uploaded documents must be clear and easy to read.
If the final Bill of Lading is not yet available, a Draft Bill of Lading can be used temporarily.
ECTN Draft Details
Include comprehensive information for each container and the corresponding HS Codes in your ECTN draft.
Each shipment must have its own unique ECTN Certificate. Providing incomplete or incorrect details can result in rejection, delays, or additional issues.