Mandatory Logistics Envelope (ELO). New Procedures for Polish Carriers

The French Customs Administration is introducing a new system called the Obligatory Logistics Envelope (Enveloppe Logistique Obligatoire – ELO), which will significantly impact the organization of transport operations between the European Union and the United Kingdom via French territory. Polish transport companies should begin preparations now for the implementation of the new procedures.

ELO is a digital solution designed to streamline customs clearance processes at the border between France and the UK. It is the French equivalent of the UK’s GMR (Goods Movement Reference) system and will require the creation of a single electronic “logistics envelope” for each vehicle, containing all necessary customs and safety data and declarations. The system is currently being rolled out and will become mandatory from 1 September 2025 for all trucks—including empty ones—crossing the French-British border in both directions.

“Every carrier will be required to create the ELO in advance. It will include, among others: Entry Summary Declarations (ENS), export, import and transit declarations, as well as information about the transported goods,” explains Joanna Porath, owner of the customs agency AC Porath.

Polish transport companies should appoint a dedicated person responsible for creating the logistics envelopes, who will collect all required data from logistics chain partners before the vehicle reaches the border. This person must have an account in the French customs system at Douane.gouv.fr.

Simplified Procedures for Drivers

For Polish drivers transporting goods to and from the UK via France, the ELO system represents a significant simplification of border procedures. Instead of presenting multiple documents and answering questions during clearance, the driver will only need to show a barcode linked to the ELO. The implementation of the ELO system is expected to bring tangible benefits to Polish carriers:

• Simplified procedures for drivers and faster border crossings – The improved processes are expected to reduce waiting times for ferry or Eurotunnel departures, which is especially important for Polish operators on long-haul routes.
• Solution to export confirmation issues – The ELO system aims to resolve longstanding issues related to obtaining export confirmations (CC599C messages, formerly IE599).
• Improved predictability of transit times – Thanks to smoother border processes, Polish hauliers can plan their routes with greater accuracy. ELO represents a step toward better harmonization of customs procedures between the EU and the UK.
• Vehicle status tracking – The ELO system enables tracking of the vehicle at the border, including loading and unloading.

“The introduction of ELO will require additional preparations from Polish carriers, but ultimately it should simplify and accelerate transport operations between the EU and the UK. This is particularly important for Polish companies, which carry out a substantial share of road transport on this corridor,” adds Joanna Porath.

A transitional period and system testing will continue until 1 September 2025, after which ELO will be mandatory for all carriers. French Customs has made informational materials available, including a dedicated website (www.douane.gouv.fr/ELO), a user guide, and instructional videos to help carriers prepare for the new requirements.