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Obligatory Logistics Envelope Mandatory from Monday 20 April 2026

All vehicles travelling between the UK and France via ferry or tunnel must have a valid ELO (Obligatory Logistics Envelope) declaration, whether loaded or empty.

From Monday 20 April 2026: 

  • Vehicles without a valid ELO will be refused access 
  • Documentation must be completed before arrival at port 
  • Failure to comply may cause delays to your operations

ELO is a new mandatory French customs requirement for goods moving from the UK to France. It applies to all cross-Channel traffic (ferry and Eurotunnel), including empty and loaded vehicles, from Monday 20 April 2026.

Think of ELO as:

  • France’s equivalent to the UK Goods Movement Reference (GMR)
  • A single barcode that groups all your customs declarations and safety/security data

 This allows French authorities to check shipments in advance, helping vehicles move faster through the Smart Border.

ELO vs GMR:

  • ELO does not replace the UK GMR
  • You still need a GMR via HMRC, or we can assist here
  • Both are required for UK → France movements

Who needs to create an ELO?

  • UK or EU hauliers with a valid EU EORI
  • Freight forwarders / customs agents
  • Ferry or Eurotunnel users

A valid EU EORI number is needed to access French systems run by Douane Française. Please refer to the official website for the full guidance.

How to apply (from the UK)

You or your logistics partner can apply with a valid EU EORI. The process is:

1.    Create an account

(if access is available to you — this is often done by a forwarder)

2.    Upload required documents

  • Customs declarations
  • Safety/security information
  • Transport details

3.    Link everything to the shipment

  • The system generates a single ELO barcode


If you need support please contact our Trade Documentation team.

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