Processing a BESC is mandatory for exporting to several African countries. Here we explain how to do it correctly, avoiding penalties and delays at your destination.

In international trade, especially in traffic to countries in West and Central Africa, there is a requirement that many exporters and freight forwarders must comply with before shipping goods: the BESC (Electronic Cargo Monitoring Board) waiver. This document serves as a customs and logistics tracking tool, and failure to manage it correctly can lead to severe fines, port delays or even the seizure of cargo.

If you’re planning to export to countries like Senegal, Benín o Camerún, uide will explain how to properly process the BESC:

✅ 1. Check if the destination country requires BESC
You can consult specific data sheets, such as the one for Senegal, to find out if your country requires this type of waiver. Some countries use different nomenclatures, such as ECTN or CTN, but they perform similar functions.

✅ 2. Gather the necessary documentation
Generally required:

  • BL (Bill of Lading) – may be draft initially

  • Commercial invoice

  • Packing List

  • Certificate of origin (if applicable)

  • Importer’s tax identification number (such as NINEA in Senegal)

✅ 3. Contact an authorized agent in the destination country
These agents can operate from Europe, Asia, or the African country itself. They are the only ones authorized to issue the BESC number.

✅ 4. Completa el formulario y realiza el pago
The process usually includes document validation and payment of a fixed or variable fee depending on the value of the merchandise.

✅ 5. Make sure the BESC number appears on the final BL
It is essential that the BESC be issued before the vessel sails, as it must be included in the bill of lading.

✅ 6. Keep the receipt for the importer
This will be necessary for customs clearance at the port of destination.

¿Do you need to apply for a waiver for Angola, Guinea, or the Congo?
We recommend consulting our country-specific guides:
👉 Waiver to export to Angola
👉 Waiver to export to Congo
👉 Waiver forGuinea Conakry