Since the 28th April 2025, an Enveloppe Logistique Obligatoire (ELO) has been available to use for GB to FR and FR to GB shipments.
💡 An ELO is now mandatory requirement from 20th April 2026.
Find out more more about our Haulier Border Toolkit which includes our ELO port pass builder.
What is the ELO?
ELO is a mandatory digital envelope used by French Customs for travel from the UK to France. It is required for GB⇄FR vehicle movements.
It is France's equivalent of the UK GMR - a single reference code representing all customs and security documents for one vehicle.
ELO bundles all load references into one digital "envelope" -
- Import/export MRNs
- Transit MRNs
- ENS filings (ICS2)
- SPS or other control documents
When is ELO being introduced?
ELO has been available since the 1st April 2025, and is now mandatory.
How does it work?
Both ELO and SI Brexit are connected to ICS2. This is because you will need at least 1 ENS per ELO.
At the check-in stage
The driver will present their GMR and ELO single barcode containing information about all completed customs for the load (including ENS)
During the crossing
The authorities will perform the risk analysis. Then, the display screens on the ship will provide the status of the vehicle
Once the driver exits the ferry/shuttle
The vehicle will be directed to the green lane or the orange lane, depending on the result of the risk analysis.
The Green Lane
This is for goods that do not require further checks. The vehicle may exit the port and continue its journey.
The Orange Lane
This is for either goods which need to be checked, or cases where more time is needed to complete the risk analysis. If the goods need to be checked, the driver will need to go to the customs office at the point of first entry.
Making port passes easier
Less time spent navigating customs red tape means MORE time to grow your business. At CustomsLink, we can save you time and money when you create your port pass or logistics envelope with us.
Find out more more about our Haulier Border Toolkit which includes our ELO port pass builder.
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