In international trade, carefully following the customs regulations is necessary for smooth delivery of your cargo.
For businesses importing into Sierra Leone, securing ENS and BSC (Bordereau de Suivi Cargaison) is a must step. ENS is short for Entry/Exit Summary Number.
This electronic certificate validates compliance with Sierra Leone’s customs regulations and also facilitates the smooth transit of your cargo. In this complete guide, we will take you through the step-by-step process of acquiring Sierra Leone ENS/BSC, required documents, potential penalties, processing timelines, and other essential steps.
Sierra Leone ENS/BSC is also known by different names such as BESC, CTN, or ECTN. Basically, it’s an electronic cargo tracking note.
Terms ENS and BSC are used interchangeably.
Understanding the Essence of ENS
Before diving deep into the intricacies to get the ENS, it’s vital to understand pivotal role of Sierra Leone ENS. This electronic cargo tracking note makes sure that you follow all the rules and criteria set by the Sierra Leone authorities and eliminating all the chances that your cargo will face any delay, or unnecessary fines.
It serves as an evidence that you follow the nation’s customs regulations, avoiding potential delays, fines, or cargo rejections upon entry in Sierra Leone.
Step 1- Compiling Essential Documentation
Begin your journey towards obtaining the Sierra Leone ENS. It requires accurate compilation of essential documents as listed below:
- Bill of Lading (B/L): This document contains vital cargo particulars, including type, quantity, destination, and shipment terms. We recommend that your ICTN number is mentioned in the certificate.
- Commercial Invoice: This commercial invoice provides a comprehensive details of the commercial transaction between buyer and seller. It delineates the cargo’s value and payment terms.
- Freight Invoice: This document shows financial dimension of your cargo transportation, the freight cost document contains freight charges, handling fees, and other related costs.
Step 2- Hiring Authorized Consultant like us
Now you need to hire officially recognized consultant like us at ctncertificate.com. This move will take the burden off your shoulders to process your ENS application. These experts possess a deep knowledge and experience on Sierra Leone’s customs regulations and will play a crucial role to navigate through the process and get you the ENS. They assist in document validation, correspondence and facilitate the seamless submission of your ENS application.
Step 3- Application Submission
Your consultant will now submit your application after making sure that all the information is correct and complete. Precision and attention to detail is required any inaccuracies could lead to potential delays.
Step 4- Document Scrutiny and Validation
Upon submission, Sierra Leone’s customs authorities will review your application and documents. Depending on cargo specifics, additional scrutiny and validation might be conducted.
Your consultant will ensure that prompt correspondence is being done between all parties to make sure that your scrutiny and validation goes smoothly.
Step 5- ENS Issuance
Following successful scrutiny and validation, Sierra Leone’s customs authorities will issue the ENS / BSC certificate. This document serves as evidence that your cargo follows Sierra Leone’s customs regulations, authorizing its import.
The validity period of the ENS certificate depends on multiple factors such as time, cargo type and final destination.
ENS Processing Timeframe
We provide draft ENS within 24 hours depending on submission. This ENS can take a few week usually, this process is conducted in Port of Freetown.
Penalties and Adherence
Neglecting to adhere to ENS regulations can lead to penalties, ranging from fines to shipment delays. To avoid such consequences, make sure you take care and attention to detail. Working closely with your ENS provider is very important.
