Burkina Faso ECTN - ECTN India

Burkina Faso ECTN/URN Certificate

Mandatory document for all ports in Burkina Faso.
Ensure smooth operations and timely delivery of your cargo with the Burkina Faso CTN. When shipping goods to Burkina Faso, you should not overlook the ECTN certificate. As mandated by Customs Officials, the Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN) is a mandatory document for all shipments to Burkina Faso. Failing to present the ECTN document can lead to severe consequences and a hefty fine.

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What is Burkina Faso ECTN/URN Certificate?

Every shipment of cargo to Burkina Faso must include an Electronic Cargo Tracking Note, also known as an ECTN or BESC. This requirement was introduced by Burkina Faso’s Customs Officers in 2001, making it a legal necessity.

The ECTN Certificate must be obtained from an authorized agency. Without it, goods will not be allowed entry into Burkina Faso. As of April 20, 2023, the Burkina Faso government mandates that all transactions must include an ECTN Reference Number on the bill of lading for the shipment.

Certificate Requirements

Which documents are required for the Burkina Faso ECTN certificate?

To successfully obtain the Burkina Faso ECTN certificate, the following documents are mandatory:

Bill of Lading (ECTN Reference Number must be written on it)
Commercial Invoice
Freight Invoice (Not necessary if freight value is indicated on the commercial invoice)
Pink Slip/Grey Slip (For RORO shipments)

To start the certification process, simply send PDF versions of the required documents to info@ectnindia.com. No hard copies are required for the issuance of the Burkina Faso ECTN certifications.

Easy Submission

Send your shipping documents directly to us via email—no portal or sign-up needed.

Quick Verification

We carefully review your documents to ensure they meet all destination country rules and provide you the ECTN draft.

Local Payment

Once verified, you’ll receive a payment link. Pay easily and safely online.

ECTN Delivered

Your validated ECTN certificate is issued and sent to your email—fast and ready for use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the U.R.N. Number?

A valid ECTN certificate features the “URN” acronym, which stands for “Unique Reference Number,” displayed at the top of the certificate. This means that the certificate number must be included in the description section of the Bill of Lading.

Is an Additional Certificate Required for Shipments in Transit via a Port in Another Country to Burkina Faso?

Please note that Burkina Faso is a landlocked country. Therefore, we recommend verifying in advance if additional certificates are required for the destination country. An ECTN certificate is required for shipments passing through Togo and Benin. However, if the shipment is transiting through Ghana or the Ivory Coast, no certificate is needed for Togo or Benin. In summary, two certificates are needed if the discharge port is in Lome (Togo) or Cotonou (Benin).

Do I Need Two ECTN Certificates for Shipments from Ivory Coast to Burkina Faso?

For shipments going to Burkina Faso via the Ivory Coast, only an ECTN certificate for Burkina Faso is required.

Do I Need an ECTN Certificate for Shipments Transiting via Ghana to Burkina Faso?

Since the Ghana ECTN certificate has been suspended, shipments transiting through Ghana to Burkina Faso only require an ECTN certificate for Burkina Faso.

Can the Same ECTN Certificate Be Used for Multiple Shipments?

Each ECTN number is unique and assigned to a single shipment. Every cargo must have its own validated ECTN certificate.

The ECTN system is a critical requirement for cargo entering many African ports. It enhances shipment tracking, reduces customs delays, and supports secure, transparent trade operations across the continent.

ECTN India is your trusted partner—committed to helping Indian businesses trade smoothly and confidently with Africa.