France - Obligatory Logistics Envelope (ELO)
The French Customs Authority has today announced that the new ELO (Obligatory Logistics Envelope) service will officially launch on 28th April 2025. This new system is designed to simplify and secure customs formalities for goods crossing the Smart Border between the United Kingdom and the European Union.
ELO has been designed to consolidate all information relating to the cargo and customs formalities required for crossing the smart border into a single barcode. This system is intended to reduce processing times and ensure more secure handling of customs procedures for both import and export flows.
Important Information on the Transition Period (April 28 to September 1, 2025)
To allow operators to adapt to the new system, a transition period will run until September 1, 2025. During this period, the use of ELO remains optional, although strongly recommended in preparation for its mandatory implementation starting September 1. Operators may continue to present declaration barcodes for pairing purposes until that date.
What This Means for You:
- Although ELO does not become mandatory until 1st September 2025, if the haulier does not have an ELO from 28th April they will be required to present all Customs declarations for checks at the Customs office.
- If you choose to use an ELO from the 28th April then the ELO MRN must be presented by drivers at Check in.
- The MRN groups all customs documents, including ENS MRNs, enabling faster and smoother border processing.
- ENS must be lodged early enough to allow time for ELO generation before crossing.
Important Reminders:
- ENS MRNs submitted in ICS1 before the switch can not be integrated into ELO.
- Goods arriving directly from Northern Ireland are exempt from ENS requirements.
- Failure to lodge ENS correctly or integrate into ELO may cause delays at the border.
For further details, please click here.
