Sierra Leone BSC - ECTN India

Sierra Leone BSC Certificate

When shipping cargo to Sierra Leone, adhering to regulations is vital to avoid delays and costly fines. The Sierra Leone BSC, also known as ENS or CTN, is a required document for smooth shipping to any port in the country. Failing to present this document can lead to severe consequences and hefty fines. Get your BSC certificate today to ensure a seamless and successful shipment.

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What is the Sierra Leone BSC Certificate?

Since 2015, an ACD declaration and obtaining an ENS number (also known as CTN or BSC) have been mandatory for all shipments. The BSC certificate must be validated at least five days before the vessel’s scheduled arrival. Shipments arriving without a valid BSC or with incorrect information on the certificate will be charged twice the certificate cost, plus additional fees determined by Sierra Leone’s national port authority.

Certificate Requirements

The following documents are necessary for obtaining a Sierra Leone BSC certificate:

Bill of Lading
Invoice
Freight Invoice
Phone number and email address of the consignee
Phone number and email address of the sender

To start the certification process, send PDF versions of the required documents to info@ectnindia.com. Hard copies are not needed for BSC certification. Make sure to send final documents that don’t need revisions, as penalties will apply for changes after validation.

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

Can I Use the Same BSC Certificate for More Than One Shipment?

Each BSC number is unique and applies to only one shipment. A separate BSC certificate is required for each cargo.

Are There Any Exceptions for the BSC Certificate Requirement for Shipments Going to Sierra Leone?

No, all shipments to Sierra Leone require a BSC certificate, regardless of cargo value or type.

What Information is Required to Apply for a Sierra Leone BSC?

To apply, provide detailed information, including shipper and consignee details, cargo description, bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, and transport details. Accurate and complete information is essential to avoid processing delays.

How Long Does It Take to Approve the BSC Certificate?

Once all required documents are submitted correctly, the draft BSC certificate will be issued within a day. After approval and payment, the certificate will be submitted for validation, typically cleared within a day. However, the process can take up to a week depending on the situation.

Can I Make Changes to a Validated Sierra Leone BSC Document?

Once validated, the Sierra Leone BSC certificate cannot be altered. If necessary, you will need to explain the reason for the change to customs at the destination port.

Is the Sierra Leone BSC Required for All Types of Cargo?

Yes, the Sierra Leone BSC is mandatory for all cargo types entering Sierra Leone, regardless of the transport method or nature of the goods. This ensures uniformity and efficiency in monitoring all cargo movements into the country.

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.