Compliance Services

    Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI) & Cargo Tracking Certificates

    Many African countries require Pre-Shipment Inspection certificates and cargo tracking notes such as ECTN, BSC, FERI, CNCA, etc. before goods can clear customs. Missing or incorrect documentation leads to fines, delays, and blocked cargo. Argo Freight manages the entire process – so your shipment arrives without surprises.

    The Challenge

    A Problem Most Shippers Don't See Coming

    Many African countries require specific cargo certificates and inspections before goods can clear customs. The rules vary by country, change frequently, and non-compliance leads to fines, delays, or blocked cargo.

    Risks of Non-Compliance

    Fines at destination
    Customs clearance delays
    Blocked cargo at port
    Costly last-minute corrections

    The Argo Approach

    Argo manages the paperwork, coordinates with inspection bodies, and ensures every certificate is in place before your cargo departs.

    We handle the documentation other forwarders shy away from.

    Pre-Shipment Inspection

    What is Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI)?

    Pre-Shipment Inspection is an examination performed before goods leave the exporting country. Many African countries mandate PSI for imports to verify that the goods match the commercial documentation and comply with local regulations.

    Quantity verification against commercial invoices
    Quality assessment and conformity checks
    Value verification for customs purposes
    Customs compliance and tariff classification
    Packaging and labelling standards

    Argo Freight coordinates the entire PSI process with accredited inspection agencies, ensuring your cargo passes inspection and documentation is completed correctly before departure.

    Cargo Tracking Certificates

    Some African Cargo Tracking Certificates We Frequently Handle

    ECTN– Electronic Cargo Tracking Note

    A mandatory electronic document required by several African countries to track and monitor cargo shipments. Without a valid ECTN, cargo may be refused at destination or subject to heavy fines.

    BSC– Bordereau de Suivi des Cargaisons

    A cargo tracking certificate required for shipments to certain Francophone African countries. The BSC must be obtained before the cargo departs the origin port.

    CNCA– Conselho Nacional de Carregadores de Angola

    The CNCA certificate is mandatory for all cargo destined for Angola. It is issued by the Angolan National Shippers' Council and must accompany the shipping documentation.

    FERI– Fiche Électronique de Renseignement à l'Importation

    An electronic import information form required for shipments to certain African destinations. FERI must be validated before cargo arrives at the destination port.

    These are just a few examples. Argo Freight handles a wide range of cargo tracking certificates across African markets – contact us to check requirements for your specific destination.

    Coverage

    Some Destinations Requiring PSI & Cargo Tracking Notes We Frequently Handle

    Angola
    Cameroon
    Congo (Brazzaville & DRC)
    Ivory Coast (Côte d'Ivoire)
    Gabon
    Guinea
    Madagascar
    Mali
    Senegal
    Togo

    This is not an exhaustive list – requirements vary by country and change frequently. If your destination isn't listed, get in touch and we'll confirm what's needed.

    Need help with PSI or cargo tracking certificates?

    Argo Freight manages the compliance documentation that other forwarders overlook. Contact us for expert guidance on Pre-Shipment Inspection and African cargo tracking certificates.

    Argo Freight works exclusively with registered businesses – our services are not designed for individuals.

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