Manage and streamline operations across multiple locations, sales channels, and employees to has improve efficiency and your bottom line.

Import ECTN/BESC

To ensure the fastest possible issuance of your Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN/BESC) for shipments destined for Cameroon, please provide the following documents. All documents must be clear, legible, and submitted electronically.

Import 4 ECTN/BESC

The ECTN/BESC process requires four core documents. Please ensure the information across all documents is consistent, as discrepancies are the most common cause of rejection by the CNCC

1. Bill of Lading (B/L) – Draft or Final

The Bill of Lading is the most critical document, serving as the contract between the shipper and the carrier.

DetailRequirementImportance
StatusDraft B/L is acceptable for initial BESC
number issuance; Final B/L is required for
validation.
CRITICAL. Must show the final
destination (Cameroon) and the
consignee’s details.
Key
Information
Must clearly state the vessel name,
voyage number, B/L number, container
numbers, seal numbers, and gross
weight.
The BESC number will be linked
directly to the B/L number.
ConsigneeMust include the full name, address, and
contact details of the final consignee in
Cameroon.
Essential for local customs
clearance.

2. Commercial Invoice

The Commercial Invoice provides details on the goods being shipped and their value.

DetailRequirementImportance
CostMust clearly state the total
freight cost (ocean or air) for the
shipment.
MANDATORY. If the freight cost is included in
the commercial invoice (e.g., CIF terms), this
must be explicitly stated.
CurrencyMust clearly indicate the
currency of the freight charge.
Required for accurate BESC processing.

3.Freight Invoice (or Rate Confirmation)

The Freight Invoice is required to verify the cost of transport, which is a component of the final customs valuation.

DetailRequirementImportance
CostMust clearly state the total freight cost (ocean or air) for the shipment.MANDATORY. If the freight cost is included in the commercial invoice (e.g., CIF terms), this must be explicitly stated.
CurrencyMust clearly indicate the currency of the freight charge.CRITICAL. Any mismatch will lead to rejection.

4.Packing List

The Packing List details the contents of the shipment, container by container.

DetailRequirementImportance
ContentsMust list the quantity, description, and weight of the goods in each container.Used to cross-check against the B/L and Commercial Invoice.
Container/Seal NumbersMust match the container and seal numbers exactly as listed on the Bill of Lading.CRITICAL. Any mismatch will lead to rejection.

Additional Documents (As Applicable)

Depending on the nature of your cargo, the following documents may also be required:

DocumentWhen RequiredPurpose
Customs Declaration (EX-A)For all shipments originating from the European Union.Proof of export from the EU.
Certificate of OriginFor goods claiming preferential trade status or required by the consignee.Verifies the country where the goods were manufactured.
Vehicle Title/RegistrationFor all vehicle shipments (Ro-Ro or containerized).Required to verify the vehicle’s details (VIN, make, model).
Purchase InvoiceFor used vehicles or goods. Required to establish the declared value.

Important Submission Notes

  • File Format: Please submit all documents as PDF files.
  • Language: Documents in English or French are preferred.
  • Consistency: The most frequent cause of BESC rejection is inconsistency between the B/L, Commercial Invoice, and Packing List. Please double-check that the Gross Weight, Container Numbers, and Consignee Details match exactly across all documents before submission.
  • Processing Time: Once all correct documents are received, we guarantee BESC issuance within [Insert Guaranteed Timeframe, e.g., 24 hours].