The Mandatory Logistics Envelope ELO will become compulsory at the France-UK border from September 1, 2025. The new ELO system (Enveloppe Logistique Obligatoire) is part of the Smart Border and aims to simplify customs procedures, speed up clearance, and reduce documentation errors.

What is the Mandatory Logistics Envelope ELO?

The Mandatory Logistics Envelope ELO is a digital tool that consolidates all necessary customs documents into a single integrated system. Each vehicle, including empty trucks, must have a unique ELO containing:

  • ENS declaration,
  • Import, export, and transit declarations,
  • Key information about transported goods, including those subject to phytosanitary and veterinary controls.

Drivers will need to present the ELO barcode when crossing the border, allowing for the automatic assignment of customs clearance to the vehicle.

This requirement applies only to Smart Border crossings and ro-ro transport. Ultimately, every driver using these crossings will need to scan just two barcodes: the GMR for UK-side declarations and the ELO for French-side declarations.

How Does the Mandatory Logistics Envelope ELO Work?

  1. Creating ELO – A designated person (ELO Manager) must gather all data and create the ELO online before crossing the border.
  2. Linking Declarations – The system automatically consolidates all declarations and assigns them to a single barcode.
  3. Border Presentation – The driver scans the ELO barcode, and the Smart Border system processes customs clearance automatically.

ENS declarations will only be required for the destination side. ENS should be submitted in the ICS2 system for the EU side and in the Safety and Security Great Britain system for the UK side.

Key Implementation Dates

  • April 1, 2025 – The ELO system is made available to carriers in a testing phase.
  • September 1, 2025 – ELO becomes mandatory for all crossings between France and the UK.

From April 1, 2025, existing logistics envelopes will no longer function, making it essential to transition to the new system.

What Must Carriers and Transport Companies Do?

Preparing for ELO implementation requires taking the following steps:

  • Appoint an ELO Manager – This person will be responsible for creating logistics envelopes.
  • Train Your Team – Familiarize your staff with new procedures to avoid border issues.
  • Integrate with ENS and ICS2 – The ELO system requires prior submission of ENS declarations.

Benefits of ELO Implementation

  • Fewer Errors and Faster Clearance – The system automatically verifies data.
  • Greater Transparency – The ability to track shipment status at the border.
  • Easier Process for Drivers – Instead of multiple documents, only one barcode is needed.
  • Potential Resolution of the IE599 Export Confirmation Issue – We hope the ELO system will help exporters and carriers avoid problems obtaining the IE599 confirmation, as discussed in our article: Lack of IE599 Export Confirmation.

Summary

The Mandatory Logistics Envelope ELO is a crucial change in the customs clearance system at the France-UK border. From September 2025, all carriers will be required to use it, making early preparation essential. Transport companies should plan for ELO implementation and train their staff to comply with the new regulations.

As a customs agency operating both in the UK as Simple Duty LTD and in the EU as Agencja Celna Proste Cło, we offer comprehensive customs clearance support. Given our 24/7 operations, we can also act as an ELO Manager, ensuring smooth documentation preparation and minimizing delays.

Have questions about ELO implementation? Contact our team of customs experts for tailored support and advice!

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