Cerium(III) nitride chloride, Ce(2)NCl(3), contains trans-edge connected [NCe(4)](9+) tetra-hedra (222 symmetry) forming chains parallel to the c axis that are separated by Cl(-) anions. The Ce(3+) cations (..m symmetry) are each surrounded by two N(3-) and six Cl(-) anions in a bicapped trigonal prismatic coordination geometry (CN = 8).