The Cargo Tracking Note is an automated scheme that is capable of determining the type and volume of cargoes that are imported through the ports, boosting security and enhancing revenue from the seaports. In this report, TOLA ADENUBI highlights SEREC’s perspective on the Cargo Tracking Note (CTN) and why it is critical to cargo evacuation at Nigerian ports. Excerpts:
Presently, through the Nigeria Shippers Council, the Nigerian government has approved the deployment of electronic cargo tracking notes for port operations, which is a significant step forward. Expectedly, the intention is to reduce delay in cargo shipment and cut costs for importers, by making the process more efficient and transparent, which is a win-win for everyone involved.
Additionally, the reintroduction of electronic Cargo Tracking Notes (CTN) is also seen as a way to curb insecurity and improve trade facilitation. By providing an accurate and reliable system in place, ports can better track and manage cargo, reducing the risk of theft, loss, or damage. This, in turn, can help to increase trust and confidence in the trade process, making it more attractive to businesses and investors.
Unfortunately, the implementation of this approved modest industry trade security and facilitation tools seems to be delayed for reasons not communicated to the industry’s stakeholders.
Speaking on the benefits of the CTN in Nigeria’s international trade, the Head of Research of the Sea Empowerment and Research Centre (SEREC), Fwrd. Eugene Nweke, explained that the trends in the port system and its efficiency is all about using electronic systems to streamline the process, reduce paperwork, and increase efficiency.
The SEREC, while acknowledging that the move towards the implementation of cargo tracking notes may not be new, stated that what is new is the applicable flexibility of the CTNs and the new way it is going to be implemented and used.
CTN and stakeholders
Shippers: The CTN provides shippers with a unique identifier for their cargo, allowing them to track their shipments and ensure that they are properly declared and cleared through customs. This helps to reduce the risk of delays, fines, and penalties associated with non-compliance.
Freight Forwarders: Freight forwarders use the CTN to track and manage their clients’ cargo, ensuring that it is properly handled and delivered to its destination. The CTN also helps freight forwarders identify potential issues or discrepancies in the shipping process, allowing them to take corrective action.
Port Operators: Port operators use the CTN to verify the identity and status of cargo, ensuring that it is properly handled and stored within the port. The CTN also helps port operators to track cargo movement and identify potential security risks.
Ports System: The CTN is an essential document in the ports system, as it provides a standardized way of tracking and managing cargo. The CTN helps to ensure that cargo is properly declared, cleared, and released, reducing the risk of delays and congestion within the port.
CTN and trade facilitation
In the words of Eugene Nweke: The relevance and roles of the CTN in adding impetus to the introduction of modern trade facilitation tools in the port system, the relevance and roles of the CTN in adding impetus cannot be over-emphasised.
The CTN complimentary trade facilitation roles includes:
Single Window Project: The single window project is an electronic platform that allows shippers to submit all required documents and information for customs clearance. The CTN is still required as part of the documentation process.
B’odogwu Application: B’odogwu is a Nigerian Customs system that allows for the electronic submission of customs declarations. The CTN is still required as part of the declaration process.
Advanced Ruling: Advanced ruling is a system that allows shippers to obtain a pre-shipment ruling on the classification and valuation of their cargo. The CTN is still required as part of the ruling process.
Authorized Economic Operators (AEO): AEO is a program that allows trusted shippers to benefit from simplified Customs procedures. The CTN is still required as part of the AEO program.
Forensics Application: Forensics application is a system that uses advanced technology to analyze and verify the authenticity of customs documents. The CTN is still required as part of the forensics application process.
Deployment of Scanners: The deployment of scanners is a technology that allows for the non-intrusive inspection of cargoes. The CTN is still required as part of the scanning process.
CTN and shipping
In shipping operations and industry, the cargo tracking note (CTN) plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth and efficient movement of goods. Here are some ways the CTN is relevant in shipping operations and industry:
Cargo Tracking: The CTN allows shippers, freight forwarders, and shipping lines to track the movement of cargo in real-time, from the point of loading to the point of discharge.
Cargo Identification: The CTN provides a unique identifier for each shipment, making it easier to identify and locate cargo in the event of a delay or discrepancy.
Customs Clearance: The CTN is required for Customs clearance, as it provides detailed information about the cargo, including its description, weight, and value.
Insurance and Liability: The CTN is used to determine the liability of shipping lines, freight forwarders, and other parties involved in the transportation of goods.
Claims and Disputes: In the event of a claim or dispute, the CTN provides a clear record of the cargo’s movement and handling, helping to resolve issues quickly and efficiently.
Supply Chain Visibility: The CTN provides visibility into the supply chain, allowing shippers and freight forwarders to monitor the movement of goods and make informed decisions about their logistics operations.
Compliance: The CTN helps ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, such as customs regulations, safety regulations, and environmental regulations.
Risk Management: The CTN helps to mitigate risks associated with cargo transportation, such as loss, damage, or delay, by providing a clear record of the cargo’s movement and handling.
In Conclusion, the cargo tracking note is still a relevant document in the international trade and port security system, even with the introduction of modern trade facilitation tools. It provides a standardized way of tracking and managing cargo, ensuring that it is properly declared, cleared, and released.
In shipping operations, the CTN remains a critical component of shipping operations and industry, providing a standardized way to track and manage cargo, ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, and mitigate risks associated with cargo transportation
Indeed, the SEREC wishes to re-echo that the CTN is an essential document in the ports system, and its relevance is not diminished by the introduction of new technologies and systems, rather, it is deliberate embrace of port industry trends and as such it is the way to go.
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