ELO Goes Live
After a delayed rollout in 2025, French Customs has now confirmed that the Obligatory Logistics Envelope (ELO) will become mandatory from 20 April 2026 for freight movements using the UK–France Smart Border.
This marks a significant change for hauliers moving goods between the UK and EU via Ro-Ro routes, with stricter requirements on how customs and transport data is submitted before crossing.
What is the ELO?
The ELO (Enveloppe Logistique Obligatoire) is a digital system introduced by French Customs to simplify and speed up border checks for freight traffic between the UK and France.
It consolidates all key customs and transport information, including MRNs, ENS references and vehicle details, into a single barcode. This barcode is presented at check-in before crossing the Smart Border, allowing French Customs to validate all required data in one scan.
The system is designed to streamline crossings at Smart Border Ro-Ro locations such as Calais, Dunkirk and Le Havre.
Where Does ELO Apply?
ELO applies specifically to Ro-Ro freight movements between the UK and France, including:
- Accompanied and unaccompanied trailers
- Imports, exports and transit movements
- Loaded and empty freight vehicles
It does not apply to:
- Goods entering France from other EU countries (e.g. Belgium or Germany)
- Deep sea container shipments (Lo-Lo) arriving from countries such as China or the USA
- Air freight movements
- Standard intra-EU road transport
From April 2026, all relevant UK–France Ro-Ro freight movements must have a valid ELO created before arriving at the Smart Border.
Key points to be aware of:
- The ELO barcode must be presented at check-in prior to crossing
- All required data must be submitted accurately in advance
- ENS (Entry Summary Declarations) must be completed via ICS2
- One ELO links all required customs and movement references into a single shipment
- Errors or missing information can lead to delays or vehicles being directed for further checks
ELO vs ICS2: What’s the Difference?
| System | Scope |
| ELO – Digital envelope linking all border data into one barcode | France-specific (UK–France Ro-Ro) |
| ICS2 – EU system for Entry Summary Declarations (ENS) | EU-wide |
To create an ELO, ENS data must first be submitted through ICS2. The two systems work together but serve different functions.
More information and guidance can be found here.
Please note: Information is accurate as of 19 March 2026 and is subject to change in line with updates from French Customs.