France’s new border rule is coming. It is delayed slightly from its original launch date of 1st September but it is still coming during Autumn 2025 and it will still be mandatory. Here's an overview of the new system. Harbour Shipping ensures our clients have peace of mind that their ELOs are completed, lodged and validated, so driver don't get stuck at the border. 
No ELO = No Crossing into France!

What is the Obligatory Logistics Envelope (ELO)?

The ELO (Enveloppe Logistique Obligatoire) is a customs tool introduced by the French Customs Authority (DGDDI) to streamline and secure border crossings for Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) freight transport between France and the United Kingdom.

• It consists of a single barcode, which consolidates all required customs references and declarations (e.g. ENS, export, transit, import) for a truck crossing the border.
• It applies to both loaded and empty trucks.
• The ELO only includes French and EU formalities — UK formalities (like the GMR) remain separate.

 

Timeline

Date	Milestone
End of April 2025	ELO service available online via douane.gouv.fr
April – August 2025	Transition period: ELO is optional but highly recommended
1 September 2025	ELO becomes mandatory for all Ro-Ro flows between France and the UK

Note: The service was originally scheduled to launch on 1st April 2025 but was delayed to 1st September and is now due during Autumn 2025. We will give updates as soon as information becomes available.
 

How Does It Work?

1. Created Before Border Crossing
   • The ELO must be created before the truck arrives at the border, by a designated operator (e.g., carrier, forwarder, customs agent).
2. What Must Be Included in the ELO?
   • Direction of travel (EU→UK or UK→EU)
   • Whether the truck is loaded or empty
   • For loaded trucks:
     • ENS reference (via ICS2 for inbound EU freight)
     • Export, transit, or import declarations, depending on the direction
   • UK procedures (e.g., GMR) are not included in the ELO — they remain separate and required.
3. One ELO per Transport Unit (Truck)
   • Only one ELO per truck is allowed. No multiple envelopes.
4. Account Needed on douane.gouv.fr
   • The ELO must be created through an account on the French Customs portal.
   • Creating an account is free and does not require an EORI or French SIRET number.

 

Why Use ELO?

• Faster and smoother customs clearance at French ports.
• Centralizes and standardizes customs data with a single barcode.
• Supports smart border crossings by linking truck license plates with customs data in advance.
• Helps avoid delays or rejections at the border.

 

Technical Notes

• For trucks entering the EU from the UK, an ENS (Entry Summary Declaration) must be submitted via ICS2 and referenced in the ELO.
• The ELO replaces older logistics envelopes — there is no dual system.
• UK-side procedures are still required:
  • A valid GMR (Goods Movement Reference) is still necessary when entering the UK.

 

Useful Resources

• French Customs ELO page — official information and updates.
• FAQ: ELO Frequently Asked Questions (in English)
• Webinars (FR & EN):
  • Held in February 2025, available in replay on the Customs website.
• Step-by-step user guides and flyers for drivers and customs operators available on douane.gouv.fr.

 

Key Takeaways

• Starting Autumn 2025, ELO is mandatory for all Ro-Ro traffic between France and the UK.
• Each truck must have one ELO generated before arrival at the port.
• ELO must include French/EU customs data; UK data (e.g., GMR) is managed separately.
• Truckers and logistics operators must register an account at douane.gouv.fr to generate ELOs.
• Integration with ICS2 is required for shipments entering the EU from the UK.

For more information call George Bowen on +44 (0) 1304 200907 or email [email protected]