OBLIGATORY LOGISTICS ENVELOPE (ELO): A KEY STEP IN THE MODERNISATION OF CROSS-CHANNEL TRADE
The DGDDI (French Customs) is rolling out a new digital tracking system: The Obligatory Logistics Envelope (ELO).
This system is part of the post-Brexit Smart Border strategy, which aims to streamline and secure trade between France and the United Kingdom.
What is the ELO?
The ELO brings together all customs formalities related to a vehicle (import, export, transit, ENS/ICS2) in a single digital envelope.
Each envelope generates a unique barcode, which is scanned at the border crossing, replacing manual document verification.
Its objectives:
• Centralise all customs documents.
• Speed up border crossings with a single scan.
• Secure and track import/export flows.
• Reduce pairing errors and waiting times.
Implementation schedule:
• 28 April 2025: official launch of the ELO teleservice.
• April – autumn 2025: transition phase for operators.
• Autumn 2025: mandatory for all trucks (empty or loaded) using Ro-Ro and Ro-Pax connections.
Who is affected?
Carriers, declarants, exporters, importers and freight forwarders involved in flows between France and the United Kingdom will need to integrate this system into their supply chain.
Plan ahead now!
Companies are encouraged to prepare for their digital customs transition by:
• Identifying an ELO manager within their organisation.
• Testing the online service as soon as it becomes available.
• Adapting their logistics and IT procedures before autumn 2025.
For more information:
👉 French Customs – Obligatory Logistics Envelope (ELO)
