Companies shipping cargo to the Central African Republic (CAR) must be aware of an important regulatory change affecting the issuance of the Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN).
The Central African Republic authorities have introduced a mandatory NIU (Unique Identification Number)requirement for all ECTN applications. At the same time, authorities have announced the suspension of the Transit BESC requirement for cargo transiting through Cameroon until further notice.
As one of Africa's leading specialists in cargo tracking documentation, Pelship is committed to keeping importers, exporters, freight forwarders, NVOCCs, shipping lines, and logistics professionals informed of every regulatory development that may impact their shipments.
New Mandatory NIU Requirement for Central African Republic (CAR) ECTN
Effective immediately, every Central African Republic ECTN (CAR ECTN) application must include a Unique Identification Number (NIU).
The NIU has become a mandatory field within the official ECTN platform and will appear on the validated certificate.
Required NIU Information
For every shipment:
- Imports into CAR: Importer's NIU is mandatory.
- Exports from CAR: Exporter's NIU is mandatory.
Without this information, the ECTN application cannot be processed or validated.
To avoid delays in customs clearance and cargo release, importers and exporters should ensure that the NIU is obtained before submitting documentation for ECTN issuance.
FAQ: Can Already Issued CAR ECTNs Be Updated?
Yes.
If your CAR ECTN has already been validated and printed but has not yet undergone destination customs or port controls, the certificate can still be amended.
To process the update, Pelship only requires:
- The ECTN/BESC number
- The Importer's or Exporter's NIU (depending on the shipment)
Our documentation specialists will update the certificate, ensuring full compliance with the latest Central African Republic regulations.
Cameroon Transit BESC Requirement Suspended
Authorities have also announced an important simplification for cargo moving through Cameroon.
Until further notice, a Transit BESC is no longer required for shipments transiting via Cameroon, including cargo destined for:
- Central African Republic (CAR)
- Chad
- Other hinterland countries
This temporary measure reduces documentation requirements for transit cargo routed through Cameroonian ports and facilitates smoother logistics operations.
Pelship continues to monitor regulatory developments closely and will immediately communicate any future changes affecting transit documentation.
Why Compliance with CAR ECTN Regulations Matters?
Failure to comply with Central African Republic ECTN requirements may result in:
- Delays during customs clearance
- Additional administrative procedures
- Port-related complications
- Extra costs associated with non-compliant documentation
Submitting accurate documentation before vessel departure remains the best way to ensure smooth cargo movement.
Need Assistance with Your CAR ECTN?
Whether you require a new Central African Republic ECTN, an amendment to an existing certificate, or guidance regarding the new NIU requirement, Pelship is ready to assist.
Our documentation experts will guide you through every step of the application process to ensure your shipment remains fully compliant.
Contact Pelship today to obtain or amend your CAR ECTN and receive expert support for all African cargo tracking documentation requirements: certificates@pelship.com
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About Pelship Offshore:
Pelship, backed by Pelican International Services, are Pioneers in Electronic Cargo Tracking Note systems since 2002 and official recognized agents assisting traders, freight forwarders & shipping Lines with compliant ECTN, BESC, BIETC, FERI, CTN, and ARCCLA issuance across Africa.
Request your draft within 24 hours through our official team.
