What is ELO?

ELO (Envelope Logistique Obligatoire) is a new French Customs system that simplifies and consolidates customs formalities for both import and export road traffic between UK and France. 

ELO allows hauliers, exporters, and brokers to group together all required customs declarations and logistics data in advance of the border crossing. Instead of showing multiple documents, the driver presents a single barcode when boarding – saving time and reducing errors.

How to get started with ELO?

There are three ways to begin using ELO for your shipments:

When is ELO mandatory?

ELO becomes mandatory from the beginning of 2026 for all road shipments entering or exiting France to/from the UK.

However, the system is already fully operational and available for use.

Don’t wait until the deadline – early adoption ensures smoother transitions and fewer surprises.

Who does this apply to?

From the start of 2026, ELO will be required for:

• all vehicles travelling from the UK to France,

• all vehicles travelling from France to the UK,

• transports moving under T1 or T2 transit documents,

• all commercial road transport.

Even if a vehicle only passes through France and is going to another country, ELO will still be required.

What information is needed for ELO?

• the direction of travel (France → UK or UK → France),

• an EU export document or

• a transit document or

• a French import declaration.

Why prepare now?

• to avoid delays, fines, and unexpected stops once the rules start,

• to have your paperwork ready under the new system,

• so drivers know what to expect on the route,

• to stay ahead of companies that leave it until the last minute.

How long does ELO registration take?

Applications for ELO registration are generally processed within 24 hours and most clients receive confirmation and ELO details by the next business day.