What is the Obligatory Logistics Envelope (ELO)
'ELO' is abbreviated from the French customs term Enveloppe Logistique Obligatoire. It is an online virtual envelope where all customs and security documents relating to a European transport shipment are grouped together before crossing the French border.
The ELO aims to simplify and secure the flow of goods by road between the UK and France, particularly at busy cross channel ports such Calais, Dover and the Eurotunnel terminals. This will become a mandatory requirement on 1st September 2025.
Instead of separate procedures for each document, the ELO system consolidates everything under a unique Movement Reference Number (MRN). It’s a digital folder that the French customs authorities can review quickly to keep traffic moving.
Failure to use the ELO after 1 September 2025 could result in severe delays for trucks, additional costs, and refusal to board the cross-channel ferries or tunnel.
FAQs
Q: Is the ELO mandatory for all types of goods?
A: Yes, the ELO is compulsory for all channel crossing movements between the UK and France. No valid ELO = No boarding.
Q: Who is responsible for creating the ELO — the haulier or the exporter/importer?
A: It can be either, but it must be agreed beforehand. Typically, the party controlling the customs documentation takes responsibility.
Q: Do I need to create an ELO per shipment on a groupage load?
A: No. You can group them under a single ELO if they travel on the same truck.
Q: What documents are included in the ELO?
A: Customs declarations, safety and security documents (ENS), and any necessary health 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 my goods are transiting through France?
A: ELO is still mandatory, even for goods not destined for France.
Q: Is ELO only for ferry crossings?
A: No — it covers all RoRo operations including the Channel Tunnel.
Q: What happens if my ELO is rejected?
A: Your goods may be delayed at the port, and you 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 details change then the ELO can be updated to reflect this. Out of date or missing certificates (e.g., health documents) will cause your ELO to be rejected.
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 Efret can help
The Efret inhouse customs clearance team are currently in the process of setting up the necessary software and will be ready to provide a seamless service at a competitive cost. Get in touch with our team for advice or a quote.
For more information about the ENS, click here:
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