With new regulations on the horizon for shipments and movement of goods across the Channel, for delivery to, or transit through France we’d like to share a little more information to explain the new system.
‘ELO’ is an abbreviation of the French customs term Enveloppe Logistique Obligatoire. It refers to a new form of online virtual envelope which contains all the necessary customs, security and safety documents relating to every European transport shipment, an ELO must be created before any goods or shipments may cross the French border.
The aim of the ELO is to simplify the flow of shipments and goods between the UK and France, which should in turn have a positive impact on exit ports and locations such as Dover, Calais and Eurotunnel terminals. Originally scheduled for implementation on 1st September 2025 this has currently bee delayed for up to 2 months while EU countries finailise their systems for handling this documentation format.
The ELO system aims to consolidate all relevant forms and documentation under a unique Movement Reference Number (MRN), in a single digital folder that the French customs authorities can review quickly to keep traffic moving.
Failure to use the ELO after the implementation date could result in severe delays for vehicles, lead to additional costs, and possible refusal to board the cross-channel ferries or tunnel.
FAQs
Q: What goods require an ELO?
A: An ELO is compulsory for all goods, and all shipments crossing the channel between the UK and France. Without a valid ELO, your shipment may be refused boarding.
Q: Who creates the ELO?
A: It can be either the shipping company or the exporter/importer, but this must be agreed upon in advance. Typically, the party handling the customs documentation will take responsibility.
Q: Do I need to create an ELO for each shipment on a groupage load?
A: No. If all shipments are travelling onth esame vehcile they can all be grouped under a single ELO
Q: What documents are included in the ELO?
A: Customs declarations, safety and security declarations (ICS2 ENS), transit movement references (MRNs), transport documents like CMR consignment notes, and necessary health or control certificates
Q: How is the ELO presented at the port?
A: Drivers present the MRN associated with the ELO (usually via a QR code on paper or smartphone).
Q: What if France is not the final destination for my shipment?
A: ELO is still compulsary for goods transiting through France to a different desitnation country.
Q: Is an ELO only needed for ferry crossings?
A: An ELO is required for all cross-channel services including ferries and the Channel Tunnel.
Q: What happens if my ELO is rejected?
A: Your shipment may be delayed at the port, and may be denied boarding. Corrections must be made and a new ELO submitted.
Q: How long is an ELO valid for?
A: Up to 30 days, if any details change then your ELO can be updated to reflect these changes. Please note: out of date or missing certificates (e.g., health documents) will cause your ELO to be rejected and your shipment refused boarding.
Q: What information is required for the ELO?
A: The following information is required:
- Vehicle details – Registration number, trailer number or container number
- Driver information – Name and contact details
- Customs declaration references – MRN numbers for export/import declarations or transit
- Safety and security information – Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) references, these should have been migrated to ICS2 to make use of the ELO.
- Special cargo details – Information about any controlled or regulated goods
How can EBISS help?
Our team of EBISS freight specialists are always on hand to offer any assistance, advice or support you need. EBISS can offer a competitve service for handling all aspects of your export/import, customs and other additional paperwork requirements. If you have any questions, would like a quote or would like to book a shipment – EBISS are here to help! Just give us a call on 0203 856 0091 to talk directly to our Freight Team.
