5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Submitting Your Benin ECTN Documents

Applying for a Benin ECTN (or BESC) is a critical step for shipping to Cotonou. While the process is straightforward, a few common mistakes can cause significant delays and even penalties. Here are the top 5 mistakes to avoid.

1. Incomplete or Unreadable Documents: Submitting blurry scans or documents with missing pages is the most common cause for rejection. Always ensure your scanned documents are clear, complete, and all text is legible.
2. Mismatched Information: The details on your Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, and Customs Declaration must match perfectly. Check that the consignee’s name, cargo description, and quantities are identical across all documents.
3. Applying After the Vessel Departs: The BESC must be validated before the vessel arrives at Cotonou. Waiting until the last minute or after departure can lead to complications and fines. Start the process as soon as you have your draft Bill of Lading.
4. Incorrectly Declaring Cargo Value: The value declared on the commercial invoice is used for customs calculations. Any discrepancy can be flagged as an attempt to avoid duties, leading to inspections and penalties.
5. Ignoring the Freight Invoice: The freight cost is a required component for the BESC validation. Forgetting to include the freight invoice will delay your application until it is provided.

By double-checking your documents and avoiding these common pitfalls, you can ensure a smooth and fast validation process. Our team is here to help you get it right the first time. Contact us if you have any questions.