Gambia CTN Certificate

The Gambia Cargo Tracking Note (CTN) requirement was introduced to enhance customs processing for goods entering the country. Implemented on 15th May 2023, the CTN system aims to support effective risk management by ensuring compliance with trade regulations before cargo is loaded at the port of origin. It enables authorities to track and monitor cargo from its origin to its final destination, providing greater visibility into the movement of goods. This visibility facilitates better customs planning and control. By implementing the CTN requirement, Gambian authorities seek to expedite trade procedures, reduce fraud, improve security, and increase transparency in international trade.

The Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN) and the Cargo Tracking Note (CTN) refer to the same document, with the terms used interchangeably depending on the country or context. For shipments to The Gambia, the official reference number on the CTN certificate is known as the Entry Summary Number (ENS).

Amendments to a validated Gambia CTN document depend on the country from which the cargo was loaded. In some cases, it is possible to amend the certificate, subject to the approval of the relevant authorities or issuing body.

No, a CTN number is unique and assigned to a single shipment only. Each shipment must have its own validated CTN number, and it cannot be reused for multiple consignments.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Trade, Regional Integration, and Employment is authorized to delegate the necessary powers to various government departments for the implementation and enforcement of the CTN requirement for all import and export consignments in The Gambia.

The specific information required to be included in the CTN documentation for The Gambia may vary slightly depending on the nature of the cargo and the applicable regulations. However, here is the summary of the certificate with compulsory details

A CTN certificate cannot be issued for LCL (Less than Container Load) shipments using the House Bill of Lading. However, this does not exempt LCL shipments from the CTN requirement. Instead, the necessary certificate must be obtained using the Master Bill of Lading that covers the entire groupage shipment.

ctnstashipping is an independent consulting firm specializing in assisting clients to obtain CTN certificates for shipments to various African countries. As an international company with offices in the USA, UK, and UAE, ctnstashipping focuses exclusively on CTN certification services. It is important to note that ctnstashipping is not a freight forwarder, importer, or exporter.

A hard copy of the CTN certificate is generally not required, as the entire process is completed online. Digital validation and electronic submission suffice for customs and regulatory purposes.

A Bill of Lading (BL or BoL) is a legal document issued by a carrier to a shipper that specifies the type, quantity, and destination of the goods being transported. It serves as a receipt of shipment, a document of title, and a contract between the shipper and the carrier.

A commercial invoice is a mandatory document for the export and import clearance process. It is sometimes used for foreign exchange control purposes. In the buyer’s country, customs officials rely on the commercial invoice to assess applicable import duties and taxes.