Although they may seem the same, each of these certificates has specific characteristics depending on the country. Discover their key differences and avoid errors when exporting.

When exporting to Africa, one of the most common (and sometimes most confusing) terms is waiver. This term encompasses several types of cargo tracking certificates, including: CTN, BESC, ECTN y FERI. Are they the same? Not exactly.

📌 What do they have in common?

All these documents are required by certain African countries. before shipment of goods. They serve to control incoming cargo, prevent tax fraud, and optimize logistics flow at ports.

🆚 Main differences

🔹 CTN (Cargo Tracking Note)
Used by countries such as Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. Its main function is to track and record cargo. It is one of the most common and generic formats.

🔹 BESC (Bordereau Électronique de Suivi des Cargaisons)
Adopted by countries such as Senegal and Benin. It is more formal and highly regulated. It can include the importer’s tax information, such as the NINEA in Senegal.
➡️ You can consult the complete guide to BESC for Senegal.

🔹 ECTN (Electronic Cargo Tracking Note)
It is used in countries such as Guinea, Togo, Libya, and the Congo. Although it is similar to the CTN, its management is more centralized and may require prior authorization from the Shippers’ Council.
➡️ More information is available in our guinea Conakry waiver guide..

🔹 FERI (Fiche Electronique de Renseignement à l’Importation)
Specific to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Kinshasa). It includes detailed information on the product, CIF value, consignee, and importing company. It is intended for informational purposes prior to customs clearance.

💡 Conclusion:
Although all these certificates are grouped under the term “waiver,” their differences can significantly affect your logistics operations. Using the incorrect format or failing to process it in a timely manner can result in sanctions, fines, or cargo blockages at ports such as Dakar, Luanda, or Conakry.

Are you going to export to Africa? Check out our country guides to find out which waiver you need:
👉 Guide to Angola
👉 Guide to Congo
👉 Guide to Senegal
👉 Guide to Guinea