This week, a new electronic port pass system for movements between the UK and France officially went live, aiming to streamline the border crossing process.

The Enveloppe Logistique Obligatoire (ELO) system became mandatory on 20 April, although many operators had already transitioned to the new system ahead of the compulsory rollout.

ELO is a logistics “envelope” that links all required declarations for a specific shipment into a single barcode, including the relevant ENS, import, export, and transit declarations. It acts as a digital wrapper, connecting these various customs documents and ensuring that customs authorities and port operators have full visibility and control over goods entering the EU via France.

ELO serves as the French equivalent of GVMS and is essential for goods entering France through RoRo ports or the Channel Tunnel. When crossing the border, drivers must present the Goods Movement Reference (GMR) for the UK and the ELO for France. It is important to note that the GMR and ELO systems are not connected.

During transit, a risk analysis is carried out, and the clearance status is displayed on screens for drivers prior to arrival. These screens direct drivers into one of two designated lanes:

Green Lane
Indicates that all checks are complete and the driver may exit the port immediately.

Orange Lane
Indicates that further checks may be required or that clearance is still in progress.

Overall, the new system is designed to speed up customs processes at ports and, ideally, reduce any delays. Its effectiveness will become clearer over the coming weeks and months.