Shipping goods from the UK to France

Now that the Brexit transition period has ended, all goods arriving in France from the UK by either ferry or Eurotunnel, require an accompanying Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) to be completed.

In the case of goods that are hauled to France by ferry or via the Eurotunnel, an ENS needs to be filed through the French Import Control System (ICS).

French Authorities recently clarified that haulers crossing by ferry must file the ENS two hours before arrival at the French port. For goods arriving by Eurotunnel, the ENS must be filed one hour prior to arrival.

The ENS must include a valid EORI number, as well as a description of the goods and the licence number of the truck.

Who bears responsibility for filing?

In the case of any lorries arriving by Eurotunnel or ferry, the road transport company or their representatives, are required to file the ENS. 

If unaccompanied trailers are transported by ferry, then the ferry company must be managed according to the ENS declaration.

Third country requirements

The French ICS system is in accordance with EU protocols on goods entering the European Union. As the UK is now a third country in relation to the EU, goods entering into any EU state (including France) must thus comply with all the relevant border control protocols.

Are there penalties? 

French authorities specify that a fine of up to €3 000 may be imposed. 

Moreover, any truck arriving without a correctly-filed ENS will be stopped at the border. This could lead to potentially costly delays on the shipment of goods.

UK-EU border bureaucracy

The UK’s exit from the EU raises a number of additional complexities. 

For example, Some goods will require health and/or environmental certification. Certificates issued UK authorities will no longer be valid. European-issued certificates will need to be acquired.

In order to take advantage of tariff-free trade, as specified in the UK-EU trade agreement, rule of origin needs to be demonstrated.

In addition, certain goods may now be prohibited from entering the EU if, for example, they fail to meet the necessary safety requirements.

To ensure the timely delivery of goods, exporters need full clarity on all their obligations. In practice, many businesses are finding it hard to anticipate all potential bureaucratic roadblocks, leading to frustration and costly delays.

A complete end-to-end solution

There’s no doubt Brexit has caused confusion and delays, especially at the various UK-EU borders.

By now, it is clear any company moving goods between the UK and Europe needs a complete understanding of all the regulations and logistics involved, and the experience to adapt quickly and effectively.

re:TRADE offers businesses a complete Brexit solution. We manage all the logistics and regulations involved in shipping goods between the UK and EU, secure you the competitive shipping rates, and provide clarity and support as conditions change. We also secure significant savings on total shipping costs. Find out how we can tailor a holistic solution for your business.