ELO Mandatory for French Border Crossings from 20 April 2026
French customs have confirmed that the Enveloppe Logistique Obligatoire (ELO) will become mandatory for all cross-Channel freight movements from 20 April 2026.
The ELO is a digital envelope that groups all customs declarations for a vehicle before arrival at the border. It allows French customs systems to automatically identify consignments and determine whether vehicles can proceed directly to the port or require inspection.
From April 2026, all vehicles travelling to France must have a valid ELO created prior to arrival at the border.
What this means for hauliers
Without a valid ELO:
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Vehicles may be stopped before entering the port
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Border processing times may increase significantly
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Drivers may be directed to inland border facilities
Ensuring the ELO is correctly created before departure will be essential to maintaining smooth border flows and avoiding delays.
How Motis Freeflow Supports ELO Compliance
Motis Freeflow provides 24/7 online customs processing to ensure drivers and operators can remain compliant with the new requirements.
Our service includes:
• 24/7 ELO creation and completion
• Online submission of customs documentation
• ICS2 ENS processing
• T1 transit document issuance and release
• Digital customs workflow designed for cross-Channel freight
All services are available through the Motis Freeflow online platform, allowing operators to manage customs processes quickly and efficiently before arriving at the border.
Why prepare your ELO with Motis Freeflow?
Motis Freeflow offers a complete digital customs solution, helping hauliers stay compliant while keeping vehicles moving.
Key benefits include:
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24/7 customs processing
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Fast T1 release times
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Online document submission
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Experienced customs clearance specialists
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Facilities available at Dover FSA and Cheriton
By completing customs requirements online before arrival, drivers can avoid unnecessary stops and delays at the border.
Prepare for the April 2026 Changes
With ELO becoming mandatory, now is the time to ensure your operations are ready.
Motis Freeflow provides a simple, reliable way to manage ELO and customs requirements digitally, helping your drivers move through the border smoothly.
For more information or to start using the Motis Freeflow platform, contact our team today.
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