Understanding the ELO French Border System

French Customs have delayed the Enveloppe Logistique Obligatoire (ELO) from 1^st September until later this Autumn.

It is a system that makes sure all customs processes have been completed prior to the vehicle arriving at the port. It gathers and secures all the required documents for a vehicle transporting goods, with its main purpose to simplify and speed up border inspections and to ensure compliance.

The system will work similarly to the GMR system in the UK and should save drivers time at the port by having one barcode with all the necessary documents for the crossing.

The driver will present their GMR and ELO to customs, goods are then risk assessed and once the driver exits the ferry/shuttle they will be directed to a green or orange lane. The green lane does not require further checks, whilst the orange lane requires a check or more time to complete the risk analysis.

It has been tested since April 2025 and was due to be enforced on 1^st September, but this has now been delayed until Autumn with an exact date yet to be confirmed.

To register for the ELO system, you will need to create an account www.douane.gouv.fr.

The ELO system will also be used for ATA Carnets.

If you have any questions, please do get in touch with the Trade Team international@gmchamber.co.uk.