Frequently asked questions
Here, you can find some of the most frequently asked questions about the CTN Certificate.
What is CTN?
CTN is a mandatory certificate if you want to export to West Africa. Click here to see the dedicated page for this question.
What is the difference between CTN and BSC?
Well, nothing. BSC is the French translation of CTN, and you might notice that some countries have different names for this certificate. For instance, Angola’s CNCA or Sierra Leone’s ENS. But you don’t have to worry about getting the right document because they are all the same document with different names.
Why do I need it?
Many West African countries, twenty five to be exact, has regulations dedicated to this subject. It is a mandatory certificate by law.
When do I have to get it?
For some countries, it is necessary before you even load your cargo into the vessel. But for some, it is required five days before the ship arrives at the latest. Every country has its regulations for this matter. Check out their dedicated pages on our site. You can click here for the country list or see the top menu.
How do I get it?
All you need to do is to e-mail us the required documents, and we got it from there. You’ll have the draft certificate the same day.
What are the required documents?
The required documents differ from country to country. You can find the necessary documents for the country you are looking for by its dedicated page. Check out the country list by clicking here or see the top menu.
What happens if I don’t have it?
Every countries regulation is different. But generally speaking, you’ll be facing a charge twice the cost of the certificate plus the regulation charges determined by the Port Officials. In some countries, your cargo won’t have an entry clearance; and will be sent back to the origin. These costs can go up to 100% of the value of the goods.
Do I need two separate certificates if it’s a transit shipment?
Yes, and no. Some countries require a certificate regardless, like Benin. But some of them require a certificate only if it’s your shipment’s final destination. You can click here to find the list of countries that require and don’t require a certificate.
What is the pricing?
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 send you an exact quote for your certificate.
If your question is not in our frequently asked questions page, please contact us.