FRANCE-UK FERRIES
FOR TRANSPORT COMPANIES
Moving goods or relocating to the United Kingdom requires careful planning customs compliance and experienced logistics coordination.
Whether you are:
- A private individual relocating
- A family moving permanently
- A company transporting goods
- A professional shipping commercial cargo
- Safety and Security declarations
- Ferry bookings
- VAT and Excise Duty refund
- Posting of Drivers
- Road Control Assistance
WHY MOVE WITH MOVE EXPERT?
Brexit & ENS Expertise
We issue ENS GB, ICS2, ELO and GMR declarations.
Transparent pricing
No hidden fees. Clear, detailed quotations.
Ferry bookings
We provide the assistance for ferry crossings around Europe.
Dedicated support
Personal advisor throughout the process.
OUR 5-STEP MOVING PROCESS
CUSTOMS REQUIREMENTS WHEN MOVING TO THE UK
Since Brexit, moving goods from France to the United Kingdom requires customs declarations and supporting documentation. Whether you are relocating personal belongings or shipping commercial goods, proper preparation is essential to avoid delays, penalties, or additional charges at the border.
Our team ensures full compliance with UK import regulations before your goods depart France.
Required documents for private relocations
When moving personal belongings to the UK, the following documents are generally required :
✔ Transfer of Residence (ToR) application (if eligible)
✔ Detailed inventory list in English
✔ Copy of passport
✔ Proof of UK address
✔ Proof of previous residence in France
Required documents for commercial shipments
If you are transporting goods for business purposes, additional customs documentation is mandatory:
✔ Commercial invoice
✔ EORI number (EU & UK if applicable)
✔ MRN (Movement Reference Number)
✔ GMR (Goods Movement Reference)
✔ Commodity / HS codes
✔ Import declaration in the UK
Incorrect classification can result in delays or financial penalties.
VAT & Excise duties
Import VAT and customs duties may apply depending on:
✔ Type of goods
✔ Value of shipment
✔ Eligibility for Transfer of Residence relief
✔ Commercial vs. personal use
We verify your situation in advance to minimize unexpected costs.
Restricted & controlled goods
Certain items require special authorization or may be prohibited:
✔ Alcohol & tobacco
✔ Food products
✔ Plants & animal products
✔ Weapons or controlled goods
✔ High-value electronics (in some cases)
We advise you before shipment to avoid confiscation or fines.
PARTNER FERRY COMPANIES
FAQ ABOUT MOVING FROM FRANCE TO THE UK
What documents are required to book and board a freight ferry between France and the UK?
To board, your booking must be supported by commercial documents (invoice, CMR), a valid EORI number, and the required customs declarations for export and import.
Depending on the route, ICS2 and ELO compliance may also be required before arrival at the port.
Move Expert supports transport operators in verifying documentation before departure.
What is ICS2 and is it mandatory for ferry shipments?
ICS2 (Import Control System 2) is the EU security declaration system. All goods entering the EU from the UK must have an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) submitted through ICS2 before arrival.
Without a valid ENS, freight may be delayed or refused at the port.
What is the ELO and why is it important for ferry transport?
The ELO (Logistics Envelope) is a digital package that consolidates customs declarations, MRN references, and transport data into one secured reference for border control.
An incomplete ELO can prevent smooth check-in and delay boarding.
Is an EORI number mandatory for freight ferry bookings?
Yes. Companies transporting goods between the EU and the UK must hold a valid EORI number (EU and possibly UK EORI depending on the operation).
It is required to submit customs declarations and complete cross-border procedures.
What are the obligations for UK-France freight movements?
For goods entering France from the UK, an import declaration into the EU is required. Depending on the goods, customs duties and VAT may apply.
All declarations must be completed before arrival at the destination port.
What is the UK HGV Levy and does it apply to my fleet?
The HGV Levy applies to heavy goods vehicles over 12 tonnes using UK roads. Payment is required before operating in the UK.
Failure to comply may result in penalties or fines.
Can I book a ferry before completing customs declarations?
Yes, bookings can be made in advance. However, customs declarations and required references must be finalized before boarding.
We recommend coordinating booking and compliance preparation together to avoid operational disruptions.
Our platform helps transport operators manage both booking and legal compliance in one place.
Does my vehicle need to have a UK Export declaration even if an EU Import declaration has already been done?
For the UK authorities (UK Export) GMR (Goods Movement Reference) is required for all vehicles even if empty or postal.
For French authorities (EU Import) references of import documents are required including Transit.
CONTACT OUR TEAM
Manage your freight ferry booking easily and ensure full compliance for your France-UK transport operations. Secure your ferry space, coordinate customs declarations, and prepare your GMR with professional support in one place.
Book your crossing today and keep your logistics moving without delays.