All maritime shipments with final destination the Ghana shall be regularized by an Smart Port Note (SPN). Generally called Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN).
SPN/ECTN certificate is a necessary document required for formalities at destination. Each B/L must be accompanied by an Electronic Cargo Tracking Note – Smart Port Note (SPN).
Tema
Takoradi
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See all FAQThe SPN — also called ECTN — is a mandatory pre-shipment document required by several African authorities. It provides essential cargo details before arrival, helping customs clear and monitor the shipment.
Without it, containers may incur delays or penalties at destination.
Yes. All cargo discharged in Ghana requires a valid SPN Certificate.
For details or assistance with the procedure, our team is available to help.
The SPN Certificate must be arranged by the party managing the shipment—typically the freight forwarder, acting as coordinator between exporter and carrier. It is their duty to ensure every cargo type has a valid SPN number before departure.
Yes. All shipments to Ghana must show the SPN Reference Number on the Bill of Lading.
Yes. A draft BL is accepted for the SPN application, and the final BL must show the SPN number.
The SPN must be obtained before the cargo arrives in Ghana , ideally at least five days before vessel departure to allow for processing and compliance.
