Hauliers using the French Smart Border should review an ELO update introduced on 28 September 2026. The change allows operators to report the unavailability of the French Delta T and Delta IE customs systems within ELO when that disruption prevents them obtaining or updating declaration references.
French Customs says the option can be used before an official fallback procedure is announced and must be selected throughout an officially activated fallback. Reporting an outage does not grant automatic permission to cross without further formalities. Affected transport units entering France are directed to the orange lane so their declaration position can be regularised. Read the French Customs ELO guidance.
Keep ELO in the journey checklist
ELO has been mandatory for relevant French Smart Border crossings since 20 April 2026. It groups the applicable declaration references under a barcode, with one ELO per transport unit. Loaded and empty trucks are covered. The envelope brings references together; the underlying declarations still need to be completed. French Customs sets out the ELO requirement.
Agree who manages changes
For transport planners, the practical question is who will act if a system problem develops close to departure. Designate a person to monitor customs service updates, coordinate with the declarant and pass the current instructions to the driver.
Keep a record of the movement details and the affected references so the team can explain precisely what could not be completed. Drivers should know whom to contact if they receive a referral at the border.
Check the current French Customs instructions when disruption occurs, as the procedure depends on the system affected and the direction of travel.
For help coordinating the UK customs paperwork for your shipment, contact Instant Clearances with your route, timing and available documents.